Definition of Antioxidants



Antioxidants are substances that do not let the free radicals cause damage to the cells. The free radicals are very reactive in nature as they are unstable molecules and they are produced by the body by the processing of foodstuffs or due to certain environmental pressures such as pollution, cigarette smoke, UV rays, etc.

 


Antioxidants may be produced inside the body or come from outside and they are known as endogenous and exogenous antioxidants respectively. If these free radicals are not removed, the body may undergo oxidative stress and can become a cause of cancer. Hence, the antioxidants boost the overall health of the body.


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