Free radicals are naturally occurring molecules that can
have major negative effects on the human body. In order to prevent the
production of free radicals, one must first understand what a free radical is.
A free radical is a molecule that has an odd, unpaired electron; usually
created from the splitting of a weak bond. They are very reactive and unstable
substances that bind with the first stable molecule they come in contact with.
This causes a chain reaction in which that once stable molecule, loses an electron
and becomes a free radical itself. Free radicals are most commonly created by
the metabolic system and immune system in order to help fight off viruses and
bacteria. The presence of small amounts of free radicals in the body is natural
and beneficial, but an accumulation or overabundance of them can cause harm to
important cells and systems.
Free radicals will feed electrons off of any molecule, which
unfortunately includes DNA. This can ultimately result in the formation of
cancer and other life-altering diseases such as atherosclerosis and
cardiovascular disease. Free radicals also attack proteins and lipids found in
the body. They attribute to about 80% of all skin aging because of their effect
on collagen and elastin fibers that plump the skin and keep it vibrant. Causes
such as metals from pollution, smoking, and stress can put a person at an
increased risk for free radicals.
One of the easiest ways to help prevent the accumulation of
free radicals is to eat foods that contain a lot of antioxidants, specifically
Vitamins C and E. Vitamin C is the most abundant water-soluble antioxidant in
the body, and Vitamin E is the most abundant fat-soluble antioxidant in the
body. Antioxidants willingly donate one of their electrons to the unstable free
radicals, thus ending both the constant stealing of electrons and production of
more free radicals. The best way to ensure your body is getting a healthy
dosage of antioxidants is by eating 5-8 servings of fruits and vegetables each
day. The link below has a list of foods rich with antioxidants, such as, nuts,
dark green veggies, and blueberries.
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