What are Antioxidants?
Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, thus playing a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and promoting cellular health. Found in a wide variety of foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, antioxidants like vitamins C and E, flavonoids, and polyphenols, are essential for maintaining health and preventing age-related decline, highlighting their importance in a longevity-focused lifestyle.
Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that the body produces as a response to environmental and other pressures. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, a contributory factor in heart disease, cancer, arthritis, stroke, respiratory diseases, immune deficiency, emphysema, Parkinson's disease, and other inflammatory or ischemic conditions. Common antioxidants include vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and minerals such as selenium.
The role of antioxidants in longevity is significant due to their potential to protect against age-related degeneration and disease. Diets rich in antioxidants from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains are often associated with reduced risks of chronic diseases and improved lifespan. Ongoing studies are evaluating the potential of antioxidant supplements to further enhance health and combat aging, although balanced nutrition remains the preferred source of these vital compounds.
