Free radicals are molecules that contain unpaired electrons and are capable of existing on their own. They are unstable and highly reactive. Free radicals can easily donate or accept electrons from other molecules causing damage to cells, proteins, and DNA.
In the human body, there are some free radicals that result from normal metabolism. However, there are free radicals that come from environmental factors such as pollution, drugs, radiation, smoking, ozone, pesticides and herbicides.
Free radicals can do a lot of damage to health. They are associated with diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and atherosclerosis. Nevertheless, eating diets that are high in antioxidants will help to prevent the negative effects of free radicals in the body.
Kelly Smith
