How do antioxidants help the human body and promote healthy living?

The word 'anti' means against and 'oxidants' means 'free radicals,’ which are highly reactive chemicals that attack molecules by capturing electrons and damaging cells in the body. Oxygen is a vital component of the human body. But sometimes, external sources such as prolonged exposure to sun, pollution, stress, alcohol, unhealthy foods, and cigarette smoke can break down the surface of inanimate objects, which results in oxidation. With this oxidation a chain of events starts.Free radicals react and damage cells, tissues, carbohydrates, proteins and lipids in the human body, which results in the weakening of immunological functions. Excess production of free radicals can also cause inflammation, premature aging disorders and several diseases like diabetes, cataracts, and various forms of cancer, heart disease and chronic disease.

Antioxidants are the comprised of agents such as thiols, ascorbic acid or polyphenols which reduce the effect of dangerous oxidants by binding with harmful molecules. This decreases their destructive power. Antioxidants donate one of its electrons thus ending the electron-"stealing" reaction. Antioxidants also help to repairing cell damage. Certain enzymes within the body produce antioxidants; otherwise, they can be ingested in the form of vitamin C and E. Vitamin C is the water soluble antioxidant in the body while vitamin E is the water-soluble antioxidant in the body. Antioxidants are prevalent in many sources, including dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, legumes and beans.

The daily consumption of fresh fruits, juices or vegetables will improve the body’s immune system and prevent from any form of illness. It is a well-known fact that the growth of healthy cells increases in individuals who eat or drink fruits juices on a daily basis, primarily because they are excellent sources of antioxidants. Fruits that are rich in antioxidants are noni, acai berries, pomegranates, oranges, and apples.

These antioxidants act as an antibiotic for the human body that protects from various diseases. Antibiotics are available in a form of medicines, but why go through the difficulty of consuming expensive and burdensome medicines, when there is an easy, healthy and simple way to keep one free from free radicals.  Drinking fruit juices is an easy and simple way to consume antioxidants on a daily basis and these antioxidant products are tasty, inexpensive, and can be consumed consistently to ensure a healthy and protected body.