Spread the love

How can antioxidants protect against oxidative damage?

Antioxidants work by neutralizing free radicals, thereby preventing them from causing harm. They do this by donating an electron to the free radical, which stabilizes it and stops it from reacting with other molecules in the body.

There are several ways in which antioxidants can protect against oxidative damage:

See also How can we prevent the accumulation of senescent cells in the body?

1. Direct scavenging: Antioxidants can directly interact with and neutralize free radicals, preventing them from causing damage to cells and DNA.

2. Chain-breaking: Antioxidants can interrupt the chain reaction of free radical formation by donating an electron to the free radical, thereby breaking the chain and preventing further damage.

3. Regeneration of other antioxidants: Some antioxidants have the ability to regenerate other antioxidants, such as vitamin E and vitamin C, which are important for protecting against oxidative damage.

4. Indirect protection: Antioxidants can also indirectly protect against oxidative damage by activating the body’s own antioxidant defense systems. They can stimulate the production of enzymes that help neutralize free radicals and repair damaged cells.

See also What is the connection between the microbiome and chronic diseases associated with aging?

Overall, antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting against oxidative damage and maintaining the balance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Including a variety of antioxidant-rich foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds, can help ensure that you are getting enough antioxidants to support your body’s natural defense against oxidative stress.

Keywords: antioxidants, damage, oxidative, against, radicals, protect, preventing, radical, between