Hello!

Hope you are doing well! I wanted to make a quick post about a word that I commonly encounter when discussing the properties of food products: Antioxidants.  This word is normally associated with positive health benefits, but why? Here is a brief and simple explanation about what they are…

Antioxidants are molecules capable of inhibiting oxidation.  Oxidation reactions can produce free radicals, which in turn can start a series of chain reactions.  If these chain reactions occur in a cell they can damage or kill it.  Therefore, antioxidants have been extensively investigated for their role in the prevention and/or treatment of various diseases such as cancer, coronary heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases among others.

As with most “miracle molecules” it is likely that antioxidants themselves are not solely responsible for all the positive effects attributed to them. They most likely work in conjunction with other molecules that are present in our food products. Thus, it is recommended to consume the ones found in our food and not get carried away and buy supplements.

A balanced diet will supply our bodies with the necessary amounts of antioxidants.  Remember that spices and herbs also contain antioxidants, as well as most fruits and vegetables.

Thank you for reading!!