Antioxidants

Abstract

Antioxidants are chemical substances that are present either naturally or artificially. These chemicals are capable for inhibiting oxidation process.  Free radicals are formed due to the loss of the electron(s) of the outermost orbit of an atom or a molecule. The loss of these electrons enables the atom to be highly reactive in chemical oxidation to satisfy/replace the lost electrons. Free radicals are continuously formed within the human body or due to the exposure to outside factors. The human body is equipped naturally with different mechanisms to reduce the free radical effect. When the formation of free radicals exceeds the body’s ability of neutralizing free radicals, oxidative stress occurs. Oxidative stress is thought to be a risk factor for many chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cataract, rheumatoid diseases, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Antioxidants are abundant in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and herbs.

Keywords: free radicals, oxidative stress, antioxidants, amount of antioxidants, antioxidant efficiency.