Oxidation is the chemical process that causes metal to rust and apples to turn brown. When this same process happens inside your body, it can harm cells and tissues. Primarily, molecules called 'free radicals' are responsible for this oxidative damage. Free radicals can be contained in (or induced to form by) a variety of things including tobacco smoke, radiation (like sunlight or x-rays) and even the normal functioning of the human body. These molecules have properties that allow them to quickly interact with, and alter, other molecules. Targets of free radicals include DNA, lipids and proteins. These interactions cause severe problems for cells and ultimately the entire body.
Antioxidants refer to molecules that, as the name suggests, counteract oxidation. Examples of dietary antioxidants include vitamins C and E. Antioxidants are able to interact with and neutralize free radicals in vitro , improve health and prolong life in animals , and many studies are underway to investigate the potential of these compounds to prevent cancer in humans.
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