The simplest way to explain a free radical is this: Free radicals are formed as a by-product of oxidation. We breathe oxygen, (O2), for example, and the 2 equals 2 electrons, or paired electrons, on the oxygen molecule. Those 2 electrons keep the molecule balanced or stable. A free radical is any molecule that has an unpaired electron, which will, therefore, scavenge around looking for another molecule to attach itself to in order to stabilize.

 

Oxygen Facts

 

An Oxygen (O2) Molecule - essential to sustaining life, but can also cause the body harm

 

Although oxygen is important in order to sustain life, sometimes oxygen can be very destructive. Imagine the paint on your car. After a few years of exposure to oxygen the paint oxidizes. Then what happens? It rusts! It loses its luster and eventually deteriorates completely.

 

During times of environmental stress (toxic exposure) free radical levels can increase dramatically, which can result in significant damage to cell structures. This cumulates into a situation known as oxidative stress. Free radical damage to cellular tissue is a major cause of cancers and degenerative disease. The free radicals irritate, inflame, age, and cause degeneration of body tissues. We can literally rust on the inside.

 

What is an Antioxidant and Why is It Important?

 

A group of antioxidant rich foods including avocado, chocolate, green tea and berries, that can be used to prevent chemical damage

 

Antioxidants destroy free radicals by donating one of their electrons, but are themselves destroyed in the process; therefore they must constantly be replenished. Mother Nature has packaged antioxidant nutrients in the fruits and vegetables we eat to prevent their spoilage. But they also may forestall our "spoilage".

 

Antioxidants that protect us from chemical damage are dialed down in old age. Toxic burden and free radical damage can ignite our epigenetic expression. On top of that - the mitochondria (the power plant of the cell) actually has its own DNA and insulin. Oxidative stress can mutate that DNA, causing deterioration of our power plant leading to energy reduction, cell destruction, heart disease and aging.

 

Vitamin C, and E, and foods like blueberries, goji berries, chocolate and green tea are rich in antioxidants. But an antioxidant supplement such as Astaxanthin is one of the most powerful antioxidants available.

 

Bottle of Astaxanthin by Pure Encapsulations

Astaxanthin

$38.95

 

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