Antioxidants

Antioxidants, or "cleaners" of free radicals in the body, are substances or nutrients found in food that prevent and slow down damage to the body caused by oxidative processes. Our body's cells use oxygen, and in the process, free radicals (unstable oxygen molecules) are produced. These free radicals can damage healthy cells to the extent of destroying their cell membranes and genetic structure. This results in premature aging and the development of health problems. The role of antioxidants is to protect the body from free radicals, whether they are produced as byproducts within the body or generated by various chemicals and toxins from food or the environment.