What are antioxidants and their functions?

Antioxidants may have come up a lot in conversation. However, very few individuals are aware of them or how they operate. Antioxidants are chemicals that protect your body from free radical damage. Compounds known as free radicals are substances that might harm your body if their quantities get too high. They are connected to a number of diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Your body's natural antioxidant defences can control free radicals. By extending shelf life, antioxidant preservatives are also essential in the manufacture of food. Antioxidants are also present in diet, particularly in fruits, vegetables, and other entire meals made from plants. A number of vitamins, including vitamins E and C, work well as antioxidants. 

Your body is continually producing free radicals. Free radicals would swiftly and seriously injure the body without antioxidants, eventually leading to death. Free radicals, however, also perform crucial tasks that are vital for health  For instance, in order to combat infections, your immune system uses free radicals. Your body must thus keep a certain equilibrium of antioxidants and free radicals. Oxidative stress is a condition that can occur when free radicals outweigh antioxidants. Long-term oxidative stress can harm your DNA and other vital bodily components. Sometimes, it even causes cell death. Your chance of developing cancer rises when your DNA is damaged.

Functions of Antioxidants

• Repairs the skin
• Promotes collagen formation
• Prevents discolouration
• Helps reducing tanning
• Vitamin E protects your nail cuticle and hydrates chapped lips

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According to studies, using high-dose antioxidant pills frequently may be detrimental. Get as much of your recommended daily intake of antioxidants from whole foods like fruits and vegetables. A healthy diet must include an adequate amount of antioxidants, while some research indicates that high-dose supplementation may be hazardous.

The best course of action is to consume your recommended daily intake of antioxidants from wholesome plant foods, such fruits and vegetables.