How Do Antioxidants Stop Free Radical Damage?
Antioxidants help prevent widespread cellular destruction by supplying components needed to stabilize free radicals. More importantly, antioxidants return to the surface of the cell to stabilize, rather than damage, other cellular components. When there are not enough antioxidants to hold cell destruction in check, free radicals begin damaging healthy cells which, in turn, can lead to problems. For example, free radical damage to immune cells can lead to an increased risk of infections. Your body needs to be able to repair damage that occurs and protect itself from the free radicals before they impact your health. This is where antioxidants come to the rescue, because they significantly delay, inhibit, or prevent oxidation. The first line of defense is a natural diet focusing on optimum nutrition. Make sure your daily intake includes a full variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains. For all those times when your diet isn’t perfect, it always makes sense to include a dietary