Antioxidants

Definition

Antioxidants are compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can harm cellular structures. These protective agents play a vital role in health by neutralizing oxidative stress, which is linked to various chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Additionally, antioxidants are important for enhancing immune function and may reduce inflammation, making them essential for overall health and disease prevention.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antioxidants include vitamins such as vitamin C and E, minerals like selenium, and various phytochemicals found in fruits and vegetables.
2. A diet rich in antioxidants is associated with a lower risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and certain types of cancer.
3. Antioxidants can help modulate the immune response, supporting the body's defense mechanisms against infections and diseases.
4. Certain cooking methods, like steaming or microwaving, can preserve the antioxidant levels in foods better than boiling or frying.
5. Some antioxidants can also help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a contributing factor to many chronic conditions.

Review Questions

• How do antioxidants contribute to reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases?
  • Antioxidants help protect the cardiovascular system by neutralizing free radicals that can damage blood vessels and promote inflammation. This protection contributes to maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and improving endothelial function. A diet rich in antioxidants can also lower LDL cholesterol oxidation, which is a key factor in the development of atherosclerosis.
• Discuss the role of antioxidants in cancer prevention and how they may support patients during treatment.
  • Antioxidants play a significant role in cancer prevention by combating oxidative stress that can lead to DNA damage and promote tumor growth. During treatment, some studies suggest that antioxidants may help mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy by protecting healthy cells from oxidative damage while not hindering the effectiveness of cancer treatments. However, the use of high-dose antioxidant supplements during cancer therapy remains a debated topic among researchers.
• Evaluate the impact of antioxidant-rich diets on immune system function and inflammatory responses.
  • Antioxidant-rich diets positively impact immune system function by enhancing the activity of immune cells and reducing oxidative stress that can impair immune responses. Foods high in antioxidants provide necessary nutrients that support the production of cytokines and other signaling molecules crucial for immune regulation. Moreover, these diets help mitigate chronic inflammation, which is often associated with various health issues, thereby promoting overall health and resilience against infections.

Related terms

Free Radicals: Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can cause oxidative damage to cells, proteins, and DNA, contributing to aging and various diseases.

Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage and an increased risk of chronic diseases.

Phytochemicals: Phytochemicals are natural compounds found in plants that have beneficial health effects, many of which possess antioxidant properties.