What Is The Definition Of Antioxidants?

Antioxidants are substances that protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are molecules produced by some normal bodily processes. Vitamins, minerals and other substances can act as antioxidants, including vitamins A, C and E, selenium, lycopene and beta-carotene. Consuming a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of antioxidants may help protect you from some chronic diseases.

Function

Free radicals are byproducts of regular metabolism and other regular bodily functions and can also come from exposure to tobacco smoke or radiation. Free radicals damage your cells by stealing electrons from other substances in your body, including DNA, cells and other molecules. After losing electrons to free radicals, the structure and function of these molecules may be altered, leading to potential health problems. Antioxidants combat this by donating electrons to free radicals, which prevents them from stealing electrons from other sources.

Sources

Your body can produce some antioxidants on its own but also uses the antioxidants in the food you eat to fight free radicals. Dr. Donald Hensrud, endocrinologist with the Mayo Clinic, reports that focusing on a healthy diet helps provide your body with antioxidants. Berries, including raspberries, strawberries and blueberries, are good sources of antioxidants, as are apples, avocados, cherries and pears. Vegetables high in antioxidants include artichokes, spinach, sweet potatoes and broccoli. Nuts, herbs and oat-based grains are also good sources of antioxidants.

Disease Prevention

Cell damage from free radicals can increase your risk developing cancer, heart disease and other chronic conditions. The Harvard School of Public Health reports that while eating foods high in antioxidants can help prevent these chronic conditions, research has shown that antioxidant supplements do not have a substantial impact on these diseases. Eating a diet that includes plenty of vegetables, fruits and whole grain foods not only provides your body with antioxidants, but also many other nutrients essential in preventing chronic diseases.

Considerations

Choose brightly colored vegetables and fruits, as the more brightly colored they are, the more antioxidants they contain. Filling half your plate with vegetables and fruits at each meal is one way to improve your antioxidant intake. You should talk to your doctor before taking an antioxidant supplement and you should not take antioxidant supplements as a replacement for a well-balanced, healthy diet.