What are antioxidants?
When a free radical attacks a molecule, it will then become a free radical itself, causing a chain reaction which can result in the destruction of a cell. Antioxidants have the property to neutralize free radicals without becoming a free radicals themselves. When antioxidants neutralize free radicals by receiving or donating an electron they do not become antioxidants themselves because they are stable in both forms. In other words, antioxidants are chemicals that offer up their own electrons to the free radicals, thus preventing cellular damage. However, when the antioxidant neutralizes a free radical it becomes inactive. Therefore we need to continuously supply our body with antioxidants. The action of free radicals could increase the risk of diseases such as cancer and hearth problems and could accelerate ageing. Antioxidants have the property to neutralize the free radicals and prevent damage. Well known examples of antioxidants are the vitamin C, E and beta-carotene. These three vitamins are often added to the so called ACE drinks. But there are numerous other rather unknown antioxidants such as lycopene, lutein,
2007-03-04 07:21:34
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answer #1
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answered by Yūsuke 5
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basically its something that keeps bad things from happening in your body. theres lots of antioxidants in green tea. drinking it helps to stop the things that would damage your insides from working.
2007-03-04 07:19:37
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answer #2
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answered by Anonymous
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A chemical compound or substance that inhibits oxidation.
A substance, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, or beta carotene, thought to protect body cells from the damaging effects of oxidation.
2007-03-04 07:15:32
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answer #3
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answered by cmhurley64 6
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antioxidants
2007-03-04 07:15:20
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answer #4
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answered by scrabblemaven 5
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They are supplements taken orally that remove impurites from the body
2007-03-04 07:16:41
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answer #5
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answered by boopem 1
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