In this article, we discussed the meaning antioxidants, how it works, how to get it, the benefits, and sources, the examples, we also talked about the role of it in cancer prevention
Definition
Antioxidants are substances that prevent or delay cell damage by counteracting free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cell membranes and other structures.
The Role of Antioxidants in Cancer Prevention
Antioxidants may help prevent cancer by neutralizing free radicals that damage DNA and other cells. However, studies on the use of antioxidant supplements to prevent cancer have produced mixed results.
Antioxidants can help protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cataracts, and can also slow down the effects of aging.
How antioxidants work
Identify free radicals: Free radicals are created by the body during metabolism and in response to environmental factors like pollution, UV light, and smoking.
Neutralize free radicals: Antioxidants donate electrons to free radicals, making them stable and reducing their ability to damage cells.
Prevent cellular damage: Antioxidants prevent or reduce damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA.
Where antioxidants come from
The body
The body produces some naturally, like glutathione and alpha lipoic acid.
Diet
These are found in many foods, including fruits, vegetables, and oils. Some examples include:
Lycopene: Found in tomatoes, apricots, watermelon, and pink grapefruit
Lutein: Found in spinach and corn
Flavonoids: Found in apples, grapes, citrus fruits, berries, tea, onions, olive oil, and red wine
Vitamin C: Also known as ascorbic acid
Vitamin E: Also known as α-tocopherol
Benefits of antioxidants
it may reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease and some cancers.
it may boost the immune system.
How to get antioxidants
You can get it from food, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.
Different foods contain differently
Some examples of antioxidants include vitamin E, selenium, carotenoids, and flavonoids.
Antioxidant supplements
Some studies have found that supplements may reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
However, other studies have found that supplements may increase the risk of some cancers.
The body also makes some of its own antioxidants.
Randomized controlled trials
Randomized controlled clinical trials are considered to provide the strongest evidence of the benefit or harm of a health-related intervention.
Some examples of antioxidants include:
Vitamin C: Helps protect cells from free radicals, which can be produced when the body breaks down food or is exposed to radiation or tobacco smoke.
Vitamin E: A fat-soluble antioxidant that can help limit the production of free radicals.
Beta-carotene: Found in many foods, including pumpkin, carrots, apricots, mangoes, spinach, and parsley.
Goji berries: These tiny red fruits are full of antioxidants and can help prevent free radicals from damaging DNA, lipids, and proteins.
Glutathione: Often called the “master antioxidant” because it is the most potent antioxidant produced by the body.
Allium sulfur compounds: Found in garlic, onions, and leeks.
Anthocyanins: Found in berries, grapes, and eggplant.
Catechins: Found in tea and red wine.
Copper: Found in lean meat, seafood, milk, and nuts.
Cryptoxanthin’s: Found in mangoes, pumpkin, and red capsicum.
Benefits of antioxidants
Reduce the risk of disease
This may reduce the risk of heart disease, some cancers, and macular degeneration.
Reduce inflammation
It can prevent inflammatory responses by protecting cells from damage.
Improve skin health
it can help prevent wrinkles and dark spots, and protect skin from sun damage.
Improve eye health
it like lutein may help prevent eye lens degeneration and vision loss.
Improve bone and muscle health
Vitamin C helps produce collagen, which is important for bone and muscle health.
Improve immunity
Beta-carotene, which is found in orange fruits and dark leafy greens, plays a role in immunity.
Sources of antioxidants
Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables like tomatoes, apricots, pink grapefruit, watermelon, spinach, and corn contain
Vitamin supplements: Vitamin supplements like vitamins A, C, and E contain antioxidants.
Skin care products.
Coffee: Some research suggests that the antioxidants in coffee may contribute to weight loss.
Conclusion
Antioxidants are substances that can help prevent or delay cell damage. They can be found in many foods and are also available as supplements. antioxidant can help protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and cataracts, and can also slow down the effects of aging.