What are antioxidants?

Answer 1

According to the American Heritage Dictionary an antioxidant is a molecule that inhibits oxidation, which produces free radicals, which damages or kills cells, which are the building blocks of body.

Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by giving them one of their own electrons. The antioxidant molecules don't become free radicals themselves by losing an electron because they are stable in either form (oxidized or reduced). They act as scavengers, helping to prevent cell and tissue damage that could lead to disease. Your cells produce the antioxidant enzymes glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and some others which neutralize free radicals naturally in the cell, but due to oxidative stress, your body may not be able to produce enough of these enzymes, especially as you age.

Vitamins C and E, carotenoids and selenium are antioxidants.

Answer 2

Antioxidants are compounds that absorb free radicals that could otherwise damage cells in your body.

Answer 3

antioxides and additives which stop food from reacting with oxygen

Answer 4

minerals