What are Antioxidants?

Answer:
Antioxidants are compounds that reduce the damaging

effects of oxidants, the by-products of the many processes occurring in our bodies using oxygen. We also have other oxidants in our body known as “free radicals” that are introduced as a result of exposure to sun or pollution, or through stress, smoking, or eating unhealthy foods.

These free radicals attach themselves to healthy cells weakening our immune system and accelerating the aging process. Antioxidants -- “anti” meaning against -- work by binding with these harmful molecules to decrease their power and repair any damage already caused. Our bodies produce antioxidant enzymes and other antioxidants are found in foods high in vitamins A, C, E, and beta-carotene.