Antioxidants are substances which prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. Why is that essential? Free radicals are unstable molecules of waste substances produced by cells as the body processes food and reacts to the environment. An excessive chronic amount of free radicals in the body causes a condition called oxidative stress, which may damage cells and lead to chronic diseases. Oxidative stress can lead to many serious diseases like cancer, arthritis, stroke, respiratory diseases, immune deficiencies and other inflammatory or ischemic conditions. Free radicals are also responsible for damaging DNA code in the cells.
The sources of antioxidants can be endogenous – produced by the body and exogenous – coming from the outside. Many foods are rich in antioxidants, there are also substances in the form of supplements that aid the body in fighting oxidative stress. In this section you will find a selection of preparations including such substances.
