ANTIOXIDANTS: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF MECHANISMS, HEALTH BENEFITS, AND THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS
Keywords:
Antioxidants, Oxidative Stress, Free Radicals, Health Benefits, Supplement SafetyAbstract
Antioxidants play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress-related diseases by acting as the body’s natural defense system against "free radicals"—unstable molecules that damage cells. This review discusses major types of antioxidants, such as Vitamin C (found in citrus fruits), Vitamin E (found in nuts and seeds), and Polyphenols (found in green tea and berries). We examine how they work, from directly neutralizing harmful molecules to "locking up" dangerous metals in the body through a process called chelation. A key focus is the synergistic effect, where different antioxidants work better as a team in food than they do as single supplements. Therapeutic applications in cancer treatment, neurodegenerative diseases, and wound healing are also explored. Beyond diet, this review looks at how these compounds are used as medicine to help the body heal wounds faster and protect the brain from aging.
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