Free radicals and antioxidants play a dual role in the body, being both harmful and beneficial. They are produced naturally through cellular metabolism or from external sources like pollution, cigarette smoke, and radiation. When free radicals accumulate, they cause oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic and degenerative diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. The body counteracts oxidative stress by producing antioxidants, which can be naturally generated or obtained from food and supplements. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, protect cells, and reduce the risk of disease. Free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), have both beneficial and harmful effects. At low levels, they support cellular functions and immune responses. However, in excess, they cause oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage. The body has mechanisms to manage this stress through antioxidants, which can be enzymatic (like superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) or non-enzymatic (such as vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene). Antioxidants are crucial in preventing and repairing damage caused by oxidative stress. They can be obtained from the diet or through supplements. However, high doses of certain antioxidants, like vitamin E and beta-carotene, may have adverse effects. Nutrient antioxidants, such as vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, lycopene, selenium, and flavonoids, play vital roles in health maintenance. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also contribute to health by balancing inflammation and supporting various bodily functions. While antioxidant supplements may offer benefits, their effectiveness and safety are still debated. It is generally recommended to obtain antioxidants through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rather than relying solely on supplements. Avoiding oxidant sources like cigarette smoke, alcohol, and poor diet is also essential for maintaining health. Overall, understanding the role of free radicals and antioxidants is key to managing oxidative stress and promoting long-term health.Free radicals and antioxidants play a dual role in the body, being both harmful and beneficial. They are produced naturally through cellular metabolism or from external sources like pollution, cigarette smoke, and radiation. When free radicals accumulate, they cause oxidative stress, which is linked to chronic and degenerative diseases such as cancer, autoimmune disorders, and neurodegenerative conditions. The body counteracts oxidative stress by producing antioxidants, which can be naturally generated or obtained from food and supplements. These antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, protect cells, and reduce the risk of disease. Free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), have both beneficial and harmful effects. At low levels, they support cellular functions and immune responses. However, in excess, they cause oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage. The body has mechanisms to manage this stress through antioxidants, which can be enzymatic (like superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase) or non-enzymatic (such as vitamins C, E, and beta-carotene). Antioxidants are crucial in preventing and repairing damage caused by oxidative stress. They can be obtained from the diet or through supplements. However, high doses of certain antioxidants, like vitamin E and beta-carotene, may have adverse effects. Nutrient antioxidants, such as vitamins C, E, beta-carotene, lycopene, selenium, and flavonoids, play vital roles in health maintenance. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also contribute to health by balancing inflammation and supporting various bodily functions. While antioxidant supplements may offer benefits, their effectiveness and safety are still debated. It is generally recommended to obtain antioxidants through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rather than relying solely on supplements. Avoiding oxidant sources like cigarette smoke, alcohol, and poor diet is also essential for maintaining health. Overall, understanding the role of free radicals and antioxidants is key to managing oxidative stress and promoting long-term health.