Free Radicals & the Antioxidant Network

We've all heard of free radicals, but what EXACTLY are they? And, are they really that bad?

 

Free radicals are formed when molecular bonds split in a way that leaves a molecule with an odd, unpaired electron. It becomes unstable and reacts with other compounds in order to get the needed electron to become stable. Generally, free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule, taking it's electron. When the attacked molecule loses it's electron, it becomes a free radical itself. This creates a chain reaction that may disrupt a living cell. Free radicals are produced by the body as a natural course of energy production such as metabolism, as well as being triggered by the immune system to neutralize viruses and bacteria.

Substances in the environment such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke, pesticides, herbicides, food additives, and a host of others can stimulate free radical production. Lack of sleep, stressful living, toxic environment, and nutrition that is less than ideal can add up to tipping the balance. The body can normally handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the free radical production becomes excessive, cellular damage can occur. An accumulation of cellular damage can ultimately lead to cancer, heart disease, and many other illnesses.

Key antioxidants play an important role in neutralizing free radicals. Even though there are hundreds of antioxidants, it appears that there are only five that work synergistically within the network of antioxidants. These five heros are: Vitamins C and E, glutathione, (alpha) lipoic acid, and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). What makes them so great is that they enhance the power of one another, and regenerate one another after they have neutralized the free radicals. This slows down the aging process, and greatly enhances the body's ability to fight off illness and disease. Please note that glutathione can not be properly utilized from a supplement, but that it is created in the body from other substances. Lipoic acid can increase glutathione production by up to 30%. There are other substances that enhance the network including flavonoids, carotenoids, & selenium. 

The best source of these nutrients: well digested, usable, REAL FOOD. I'll go a few steps further and say that veggies, fruits, nuts, & seeds well chewed are best. Simply put, you get nutrient dense food at it's best. Proper amounts of supplementation is good insurance if you are resistant to change your eating habits, have a history that would indicate high risk, or those who don't want to take a chance.  GOOD EATS!