Antioxidants & Free Radicals: What They Are and Why They Matter for Your Health
Understanding Antioxidants and Free Radicals
We all know oxygen is essential for life. It fuels the body’s ability to convert food into energy and supports countless cellular processes. But the very act of using oxygen also produces unstable molecules called free radicals — and when left unchecked, they can damage cells, accelerate ageing, and increase your toxic load.
This is where antioxidants step in — and why they play a vital role in your long-term health.
What Are Free Radicals?
Free radicals are highly reactive, unstable molecules. Their instability comes from missing electrons, which they try to “steal” from nearby cells — damaging DNA, proteins, and membranes in the process. This triggers a chain reaction of cellular disruption.
Free radicals are produced:
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Internally (endogenously): through normal metabolism, inflammation, and respiration
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Externally (exogenously): via pollution, UV exposure, poor diet, stress, alcohol, smoking, and even intense exercise
When the body’s natural defences can’t keep up, oxidative stress occurs — a condition linked to cell damage, premature ageing, and chronic disease.
Antioxidants: Nature’s Defence System
Antioxidants are molecules that stabilise free radicals by donating electrons — without becoming unstable themselves. This helps break the destructive chain and limits cellular damage.
Antioxidants include:
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Nutrients: such as vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and polyphenols
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Enzymes: naturally produced by the body (though production declines with age)
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Phyto-compounds: found in colourful plant foods
Signs You May Need Antioxidant Support
You may benefit from antioxidant-rich foods or supplementation if you:
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Have high exposure to pollution, alcohol, or smoke
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Live a high-stress or fast-paced lifestyle
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Consume a low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables
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Are over 30 (when antioxidant enzyme levels naturally decline)
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Regularly engage in strenuous physical activity
Antioxidant-Rich Foods to Prioritise
Many fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods are rich in antioxidants — often reflected in their vibrant colours:
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Vitamin C sources: rosehips, citrus fruits, parsley, elderberries, broccoli
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Vitamin E sources: nuts, seeds, wheatgerm, oats, whole grains
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Polyphenol-rich foods: green tea, grapes, blueberries, turmeric
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Superfoods: acai berries, wheatgrass, beetroot, kale
The more colour on your plate, the better your antioxidant diversity.
Why Supplement?
Even with a well-balanced diet, modern life places increased oxidative demands on the body. Supplementing with high-quality, food-based antioxidants can help:
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Fill dietary gaps
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Support immune resilience
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Promote skin health, energy, and longevity
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Counter environmental stressors
At AnMar™, we offer curated antioxidant blends made from whole food extracts — designed to support daily cellular protection with trusted natural sources.
🌿 Explore Antioxidant Support with AnMar™
Ready to boost your cellular defence? Explore our superfood-based antioxidant supplements, rich in nature’s most protective compounds.
