Free
radicals and antioxidants antiaging properties, oxidative damage
How
free radical damage occurs
Simplistically,
when a free radical enters the body and
the immune system is not functioning optimally, different
things may occur.
Allergies may
occur upon attack of free radicals to the
cell. Breaking off
membrane proteins and thus destroying
the cells identity. The cell may
die as a result of attack of free radicals to
the fat globule in the membrane. This may lead to
aging. Fusing together
membrane lipid and proteins hardening
the cell membrane and making it brittle and
nonfunctional. Should the
free radical attack the nucleus of the cell,
which has the reproductive map of the cell (DNA)
neoplasia may develop.
Since the human's body is constantly bombarded by free
radicals it is virtually impossible for the antioxidant defense
system to be consistently at peak performance.
Oxidative
stress occurs when there are more free radicals
than can be dealt with due to environmental insult, disease
or malnutrition. Even exercise, because of an increase in
oxygen demand and utilization, increases the formation of
free radicals. However, regular exercise builds up body
defense systems and protects against damage. An improper
balance between formation and destruction of free radicals
may play a role in degenerative disease and aging.
Antioxidants in the diet may prevent disease and deficiencies
may be deleterious to fetal and childhood development.
This essential nutrient not only increases the number of
white blood cells it also enhances antibody formation. The
only logical solution is to help the ailing antioxidant defense
system through the use of antioxidants. Antioxidants are
substances that act as shields or barriers to prevent the
invading free radicals from doing harm to cells.
Allergies may
occur upon attack of free radicals to the
