What the heck are these? They sound viscous and dangerous….at least that is what I first thought when I learned about them in medical school.
And yes, in medical school, so that means I will need to give you a quick lesson in cell/molecular biology.
Here goes…
The human body is made up of many cells which are composed of different types of molecules that have atoms joined by chemical bonds. Normally these bonds do not split. However, a free radical is an unstable molecule. This means that it originally was happily paired up albeit sadly ( see below for reasons why) the bonds split. This creates the unstable molecule – free radical - which becomes highly reactive and desperate in search to become stable again.
In the time that is is frantically searching, it may do some stealing from a healthy cell in your body, thus leaving it damaged.
Sources of these free radicals ( the creators of bond splitting) come from an abundant of places, such as…
- pollution
- smoke
- UVA and IVB rays
- chemicals
Free radicals damage may create inflammation, may contribute to cancers and other disease, cause some premature wrinkles and sagging skin.
This all might seem frightful, however, our bodies are quite amazing at fighting these free radicals off. Although at times, it can be overwhelming and too much for the body. Indulging in some free radical fighting foods ( antioxidants) can be very helpful.
Antioxidants to the rescue
Antioxidant are foods rich in vitamin c and e and glutathione. Below are some foods sources:
- apples ( but do not peel them! The peel is full of nutrients – antioxidants and fiber!)
- blueberries
- strawberries
- raspberries
- cranberries
- dark green leafy vegetables like spinach
- pecans
- dark chocolate
- dark plum
- artichokes
- red and kidney beans
If would rather not eat these yummy foods, you can purchase an Antioxidant Supplement through my Shop Supplements with Emerson Ecologics.
Be well,
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