|
We searched Yahoo! for "free radical," ignoring the libertarian magazine, the rock band, and the antioxidant product matches. Instead, we clicked on the very first search result -- a link to the Britannica Concise definition of free radical provided by Yahoo! Reference. Typically, stable molecules contain pairs of electrons. When a chemical reaction breaks the bonds that hold paired electrons together, free radicals are produced. Free radicals contain an odd number of electrons, which makes them unstable, short-lived, and highly reactive. As they combine with other atoms that contain unpaired electrons, new radicals are created, and
a chain reaction begins. This process is essential for the decomposition of many different substances at high temperatures. However, in the human body, oxidized free radicals are believed to cause tissue damage at the cellular level -- harming our DNA, mitochondria, and cell membrane. An article titled "Antioxidants and Free Radicals" from the SportsMedWeb explains that antioxidants are molecules that defend the body from cellular damage by ending the free radical chain reaction before vital molecules are harmed. Sometimes referred to as "free radical scavengers," the most commonly recognized antioxidants are vitamin E, beta-carotene (a pre-cursor to vitamin A), and vitamin C. The trace metal selenium is required for the
function of one of our antioxidant enzyme systems, and is often included in lists of antioxidant micronutrients (i.e., vitamins). According to information we found on the web site of the Atlanta-based Edelson Center for Environmental and Preventive Medicine, the theory of free radical pathology was first proposed in the 1950s by Dr. Denham Harman, a professor emeritus at the University of Nebraska. Now considered the father of the free-radical theory of aging, Harman believes that we should reduce our intake of calories to decrease the incidence of disease. Ongoing research studies the role of oxygen
free radicals in cellular chemistry, cancer treatment, and in a range of diseases including ALS, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, atherosclerosis, diabetes, and others. As you might expect, medical and scientific opinions about the ability of antioxidants to extend life and enhance well-being vary greatly. So, don't cut out your antioxidant vitamins, but consider taking them with a grain of salt.
|
