Summary of what antioxidants are all about

1. Antioxidant Nutrients
• Anti – against
• Oxidant – compounds such as oxygen that
combines with another substances.
• Oxidation – a natural process that occurs within
our body’s cells, and can produce reactive
substances called free radicals.
Ex. Rust
Just as rust attacks and breaks down the
metal, free radicals break down body cells and
tissue, attack DNA, fats and proteins.

2. • Free radicals - are molecules with 1 or more unpaired
electrons
- damage the polyunsaturated fatty acids,
disrupts the transport of substances in and out of the cell
membranes, alters DNA, RNA and Proteins, creating
excess and deficiencies of specific proteins, and
impairing cell functions.
We cannot avoid free radicals.
Pollution, sun exposure and other environmental factors,
alcohol, nicotine, x-rays and certain foods.
We can, however, combat the harmful effects of oxidants
with antioxidants.

3. What is anti-oxidant?
• In general, antioxidants neutralize free radicals that
are generated in the body and prevent damage to
cell proteins, lipids and carbohydrates.
• stable
• fat-soluble
• water-soluble
• Antioxidants are nutrients that can slow oxidative
damage to our body's tissues. Antioxidants can
help prevent cancer and a range of other health
problems.

4. Where can we get Antioxidant nutrients?

5. Examples of antioxidants include:
• Lutein
• Lycopene
• Selenium
• Flavonoids and polyphenols
• Vitamin A and Carotenoids
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

6. Effects of Antioxidants
• Stimulate the immune response
• Help maintain the integrity of cell membrane
and matrixes
• Aid in the maintenance of normal DNA repair
Characteristics:
Recycling – Vit E is recycled back to its original
form with the aid of Vit C
- Vit C is recycled by interacting with
Glutathione

7. Minimizing Oxidative Stress
Oxidative Stress – a condition in which the
production of oxidants and free radicals
exceeds the body’s ability to handle them and
prevent damage.
• Eating fruits and vegetables
• Avoid cigarette smoking
• Avoid drinking alcohol

8. • High doses of beta-carotene may increase the
risk of lung cancer in smokers.
• High doses of vitamin E may increase risks of
prostate cancer.
• Antioxidant supplements may also interact
with some medicines.
• Pro-oxidants – stimulates the production of
free radicals
Disadvantages