Free radicals
Definition:
Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells in your body. They’re formed when atoms lose an electron, making them highly reactive. This instability causes them to steal electrons from other molecules, which can damage cells and DNA.
Free radicals are produced naturally in the body during normal cell metabolism. However, their production can also be increased by exposure to environmental factors, such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, UV radiation, X-rays, and certain chemicals.
Free radical damage can cause a number of diseases, like:[1]
- Cancer
- Heart disease
- Alzheimer’s
- Parkinson’s
- Age-related macular degeneration
To reduce free radical damage in your body, it’s recommended that you eat a diet rich in antioxidants, don’t smoke, use SPF outdoors, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.
- Pham-Huy, L.A., He, H. and Pham-Huy, C. (2008). Free radicals, antioxidants in disease and health. International journal of biomedical science : IJBS, [online] 4(2), pp.89–96.
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