Anti-Oxidants

An antioxidant is a substance that inhibits oxidation.  Oxidation is a by-product of many cellular processes in an organism which releases an unpaired oxygen molecule.  The unpaired oxygen molecule is then free to roam and look for another oxygen molecule to pair itself to (and becomes what is referred to as a “free radical”).  As it circulates freely, it damages cellular DNA and can cause disease-forming changes.  Antioxidants are called “free radical scavengers” and they stop the free radical from causing damage. The body makes its own antioxidants, the most important of which is the master antioxidant glutathione. Antioxidants are available in certain vitamins and dietary sources and can be supplemented for extra protection. Antioxidants can prevent damage that is a result of environmental toxins or ingested toxins.  High levels of antioxidants can prevent and assist in fighting many infections and diseases.