Antioxidants: Free radical protection

Antioxidants: Free radical protection

Section 1: Free radicals – invisible threats

Free radicals are unstable molecules formed as a result of normal metabolic processes in the body, as well as under the influence of external factors, such as environmental pollution, smoking, radiation and consumption of processed food. These molecules are characterized by the presence of an unpaired electron, which makes them extremely reactive and prone to interaction with other molecules in a cell, including DNA, proteins and lipids. This interaction, known as oxidative stress, can lead to damage to cells and tissues, contributing to the development of various diseases and accelerating the aging process.

• Free radical formation:

  • Metabolism: Normal cellular processes, such as breathing and energy production, inevitably lead to the formation of a certain amount of free radicals. Mitochondria, cellular power plants, are the main source of these molecules.

  • Inflammation: Inflammatory processes in the body caused by infections or injuries lead to the activation of immune cells that generate free radicals to combat pathogens. However, uncontrolled inflammation can lead to excessive formation of free radicals and damage to their own tissues.

  • External factors:

    • Environmental pollution: Contaminated air contains many harmful substances, including ozone, nitrogen dioxide and solid particles that can initiate the formation of free radicals in the lungs and other organs.
    • Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains thousands of chemicals, many of which are strong oxidizing agents and significantly increase the amount of free radicals in the body.
    • Radiation: Ultraviolet (UV) Sun radiation and ionizing radiation (for example, from x -rays) can damage DNA and other molecules, contributing to the formation of free radicals.
    • Recycled food: Products subjected to intensive processing often contain trans fats, added sugar and other ingredients that can contribute to the inflammation and formation of free radicals.
    • Pesticides and herbicides: Contact with pesticides and herbicides used in agriculture can also increase the level of free radicals in the body.

• Damage mechanisms:

  • DNA damage: Free radicals can attack DNA, causing mutations that can lead to cancer and other diseases. They can change the structure of DNA bases, break the DNA chains and cause stitching between the chains.
  • Protein damage: Free radicals can oxidize amino acids in proteins, changing their structure and function. This can lead to a loss of enzymatic activity, a violation of the structural integrity of proteins and the formation of units that can accumulate in cells and cause their dysfunction.
  • Lipid damage: Free radicals can oxidize lipids, especially polyunsaturated fatty acids in cell membranes. This leads to the peroxide oxidation of lipids, which violates the structure and function of the membranes, making them permeable and vulnerable to damage. Oxidation of lipids can also lead to the formation of harmful decay products, which can spread oxidative stress to other cells.
  • Inflammation: Cell damage with free radicals can cause an inflammatory reaction, which, in turn, leads to the further formation of free radicals, creating a vicious circle of oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Oxidizing stress and disease:

  • Cardiovascular diseases: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of atherosclerosis, when free radicals oxidize low -density lipoproteins (LDL), which contributes to its accumulation in the walls of arteries and the formation of plaques. Oxidative stress can also damage the endothelium – the inner layer of arteries, which leads to their dysfunction and increases the risk of blood clots.
  • Cancer: DNA damage to free radicals is a key factor in the development of cancer. Mutations in DNA can lead to uncontrolled cell growth and tumor formation. Oxidative stress can also contribute to the progression of cancer, stimulating angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that feed the tumor) and metastasis (spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body).
  • Neurodegenerative diseases: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Free radicals can damage neurons, causing their death and leading to a progressive deterioration in cognitive functions and motor skills. In these diseases, the accumulation of oxidized proteins and lipids in the brain is also observed.
  • Inflammatory diseases: Oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of many inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory diseases of the intestine and asthma. Free radicals can activate the inflammatory tracks and enhance the inflammatory reaction, leading to tissue damage and the progression of the disease.
  • Diabetes: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the development and complications of diabetes. An increased level of glucose in the blood can lead to the formation of free radicals, which damage the cells of the pancreas that produce insulin. Oxidative stress can also contribute to the development of insulin resistance and vascular damage, which leads to the development of cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy and nephropathy in patients with diabetes.
  • Aging: Oxidative stress is one of the main theories of aging. Over time, the body accumulates damage caused by free radicals, which leads to a decrease in the functional capabilities of cells and tissues and an increase in the risk of developing age diseases.

Section 2: Antioxidants – Cell protectors

Antioxidants are substances that can neutralize free radicals, preventing their damaging effect on the cells and tissues of the body. They act, giving the electron to a free radical, stabilizing it and preventing it from interacting with other molecules. Antioxidants can be either endogenous (produced by the body itself) and exogenous (obtained from food and additives).

• Classification of antioxidants:

  • Enzymatic antioxidants:

    • Superoxidydadysmutaza (sod): SOD is one of the most powerful antioxidant enzymes in the body. It catalyzes the transformation of a superoxide radical (O2-), one of the most common free radicals, into less harmful hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). There are various forms of SOD containing different metals: copper-cin-sod (Cuzn-sod) in the cytosole, manganese-sod (MN-sod) in mitochondria and copper-zink-sod (Cuzn-s) in extracurricular space.
    • Cataala: Catalase is another important antioxidant enzyme that catalyzes the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water (H2O) and oxygen (O2). Hydrogen peroxide, although less reactive than a superoxide radical, can still damage the cells, and it must be neutralized. Catalase is mainly in peroxysoma – organelles specializing in detoxification.
    • Glututioneperoxidase (GP): GP is a family of enzymes that use glutathione (tripeptide consisting of glutamic acid, cysteine ​​and glycine) to neutralize hydrogen peroxide and other lipid peroxides. GP plays an important role in protecting cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. Selenium is an important cofactor for GP.
    • GlututationReductase: Glutathioneuctasis is an enzyme that restores oxidized glutathione (GSSG) in the restored glutathione (GSH), which is necessary for the work of glutathioneperoxidase. This enzyme supports a high level of restored glutathione in cells.

  • Non -enzymatic antioxidants:

    • Vitamin C (ascorbic acid): Vitamin C is a water -soluble antioxidant that plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. It neutralizes free radicals in the water phase of the cell and helps to restore vitamin E. Vitamin C also participates in the synthesis of collagen, strengthens the immune system and improves the absorption of iron.
    • Vitamin E (tocopherols and tocotrienols): Vitamin E is a fat -soluble antioxidant that protects cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. It neutralizes free radicals formed in the lipid phase of the cell. There are eight different forms of vitamin E: four tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma and delta) and four Tokotrienols (alpha, beta, gamma and delta). Alpha-tocopherol is the most common and active form of vitamin E in the body.
    • Carotenoids (beta-carotene, lycopin, lutein, zeaxanthin): Carotinoids are fat -soluble pigments contained in vegetables and fruits that have antioxidant properties. Beta-carotene is the predecessor of vitamin A and can turn into vitamin A in the body. Lycopine is a carotenoid contained in tomatoes and other red fruits and vegetables, which has powerful antioxidant properties and can reduce the risk of prostate cancer. Luthein and Zeaksantin are carotenoids that accumulate in the retina and protect it from damage to light and oxidative stress.
    • Polyphenols (flavonoids, anthocyanins, reveratrol): Polyphenols are a large group of plant compounds with antioxidant properties. Flavonoids are found in fruits, vegetables, tea and wine and have antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and anti -cancer properties. Anthocyans are contained in berries, such as blueberries and raspberries, and give them dark blue and purple. They have powerful antioxidant properties and can improve vision and cognitive functions. Reveratrol is contained in grapes and red wine and has antioxidant, anti -inflammatory and cardioprotective properties.
    • Glutathione: Glutation is a tripeptide consisting of glutamic acid, cysteine ​​and glycine, which plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. It is a cofactor for glutathioneperoxidase and is involved in the detoxification of harmful substances in the liver. Glutation can also directly neutralize free radicals.
    • Coenzim Q10 (Uthihinone): Coenzyme Q10 is a fat -soluble substance that is involved in the production of energy in mitochondria. It is also a powerful antioxidant and protects cell membranes from lipid oxidation. Coenzyme Q10 can improve the function of the heart and reduce blood pressure.
    • Alpha-lipoic acid: Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant, which is soluble in both water and in fat. It participates in the production of energy in mitochondria and can restore other antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione. Alpha-lipoic acid can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar in patients with diabetes.
    • Selenium: Selenium is a mineral that is necessary for the work of glutathioneperoxidase. It is also a component of other antioxidant enzymes. Selenium can protect against cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
    • Zinc: Zinc is a mineral that is involved in the work of superoxidsmutase and other antioxidant enzymes. It is also necessary for the immune function and wound healing.

• Action mechanisms:

  • Direct neutralization of free radicals: Antioxidants give an electron to a free radical, stabilizing it and preventing it from interacting with other molecules.
  • Restoration of oxidized molecules: Antioxidants can restore oxidized molecules such as vitamin E and glutathione, returning them to their antioxidant properties.
  • Helating of metals: Some antioxidants, such as metals, connect metals, such as iron and copper, which can catalyze the formation of free radicals.
  • Activation of antioxidant enzymes: Some antioxidants, such as sulforafan contained in broccoli, can activate antioxidant enzymes in the body, such as superoxidsmutase, catalase and glutathioneproxidase.
  • Inhibition of enzymes producing free radicals: Some antioxidants can inhibit enzymes that produce free radicals, such as xanthinoxidase and NASFN-oxidase.
  • Improving DNA reparation: Some antioxidants can improve DNA reparation damaged by free radicals.
  • Support for the immune system: Antioxidants can strengthen the immune system, which plays an important role in protecting against infections and diseases.

• Food sources of antioxidants:

  • Fruits: Berries (blueberries, raspberries, strawberries), citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons), apples, grapes, kiwi, grenades.
  • Vegetables: Leaf greens (spinach, kale cabbage, Romen salad), broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels cabbage, carrots, pepper (especially red and yellow), tomatoes, onions, garlic.
  • Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds.
  • Grain: Whole grain products (brown rice, oatmeal, cinema, buckwheat).
  • Legumes: Beans, lentils, chickpeas.
  • Tea: Green tea, black tea, white tea.
  • Coffee: Coffee contains antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid.
  • Chocolate: Dark chocolate (with a high cocoa content) contains flavonoids with antioxidant properties.
  • Herbs and spices: Turmeric, ginger, rosemary, oregano, basil, cinnamon.

Section 3: Antioxidants and Health – Scientific data

Numerous studies have shown that antioxidants play an important role in maintaining health and preventing various diseases. However, it is important to note that the research results are often contradictory, and it is necessary to take into account many factors, such as dosage, the type of antioxidant and human health.

• Cardiovascular diseases:

  • Some studies show that the consumption of products rich in antioxidants can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Antioxidants can protect against oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation and improve the function of endothelium.
  • In particular, flavonoids contained in fruits, vegetables, tea and wine were associated with a decrease in the risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke.
  • However, some clinical trials with vitamin E additions did not show a significant reduction in the risk of cardiovascular diseases, and in some cases even increased the risk of heart failure.
  • Further research is needed to determine the optimal doses and types of antioxidants for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

• Cancer:

  • Some studies show that the consumption of products rich in antioxidants can reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, such as lung cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer.
  • Antioxidants can protect DNA from damage to free radicals and inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
  • In particular, the lycopines contained in tomatoes were associated with a decrease in the risk of prostate cancer. Kurkumin contained in turmeric has anti -cancer properties and can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
  • However, some clinical trials with beta-carotene additives showed that they can increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers.
  • Further research is needed to determine the optimal doses and types of antioxidants for cancer prevention.

• Neurodegenerative diseases:

  • Some studies show that the consumption of products rich in antioxidants can reduce the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
  • Antioxidants can protect neurons from damage to free radicals and improve cognitive functions.
  • In particular, the anthocyans contained in the berries were associated with improving memory and cognitive functions.
  • Further research is needed to determine the optimal doses and types of antioxidants for the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

• Inflammatory diseases:

  • Some studies show that the consumption of products rich in antioxidants can reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms of inflammatory diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory intestinal diseases.
  • Antioxidants can inhibit inflammatory trains and reduce tissue damage.
  • In particular, omega-3 fatty acids contained in fish have anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Further studies are needed to determine the optimal doses and types of antioxidants for the treatment of inflammatory diseases.

• Diabetes:

  • Some studies show that the consumption of products rich in antioxidants can improve blood sugar and reduce the risk of diabetes complications.
  • Antioxidants can protect pancreatic cells that produce insulin and improve insulin sensitivity.
  • In particular, alpha-lipoic acid can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar in patients with diabetes.
  • Further studies are needed to determine the optimal doses and types of antioxidants for the treatment of diabetes.

• Aging:

  • The theory of aging, based on free radicals, suggests that the accumulation of damage caused by free radicals is the main cause of aging.
  • The consumption of products rich in antioxidants can slow down the aging process and increase life expectancy.
  • However, research on animals and people gave conflicting results.
  • Further studies are needed to determine the influence of antioxidants on the aging process.

Section 4: Antioxidants – recommendations and warnings

Although antioxidants are important to health, it is important to observe moderation and take into account potential risks associated with reception of additives.

• Obtaining antioxidants from food:

  • The best way to obtain antioxidants is to use a variety of and balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, nuts and seeds.
  • Try to eat products of different colors, as they contain different types of antioxidants.
  • Include in your diet products rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries, pepper), vitamin E (nuts, seeds, vegetable oils), carotenoids (carrots, tomatoes, spinach) and polyphenols (fruits, vegetables, tea, wine).

• Using antioxidants’ additives:

  • Reception of antioxidants should be discussed with a doctor or nutritionist.
  • Some additives can interact with drugs or have side effects.
  • High doses of some antioxidants can be harmful. For example, high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding, and high doses of beta-carotene can increase the risk of lung cancer in smokers.
  • In most cases, obtaining antioxidants from food is safer and more effective than taking additives.
  • When choosing additives, you should give preference to products from reliable manufacturers and pay attention to the dosage.

• Cautions:

  • Synergic effect: Antioxidants work better in combination with each other than separately. The use of a variety of diet, rich in antioxidants, provides a synergistic effect.
  • Oxidizing paradox: In some cases, antioxidants can act as proxidants, contributing to the formation of free radicals. This can happen at high doses or in certain conditions.
  • Individual needs: The need for antioxidants can vary depending on the age, gender, state of health, lifestyle and genetic factors.
  • Impact of Medicines: Antioxidants can interact with some drugs such as anticoagulants and chemotherapeutic drugs. It is important to consult a doctor before taking the supplements of antioxidants, if you take any drugs.
  • Do not replace a healthy lifestyle: Antioxidants are not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular physical exercises, rejection of smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.

• Recommendations:

  • Strive for a diverse and balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, nuts and seeds.
  • Limit the use of processed food, sugar and trans fats.
  • Avoid smoking and limit the use of alcohol.
  • Physical exercises regularly.
  • Reduce the effects of environmental pollution.
  • If necessary, consult a doctor or a nutritionist about taking antioxidants additives.
  • Remember that antioxidants are only one of the factors affecting health, and an integrated approach is important, including a healthy lifestyle and regular medical examinations.

Section 5: Further research – the direction of the future

Studies in the field of antioxidants continue, and scientists seek to better understand their role in maintaining health and preventing diseases. Future research will be directed to:

• Identification of new antioxidants: The search for new antioxidants in plant sources and the development of synthetic antioxidants with improved properties.
• Studying the mechanisms of action of antioxidants: A deeper understanding of the mechanisms of the action of antioxidants at the molecular and cellular levels.
• Development of personalized approaches: Determination of individual needs for antioxidants based on genetic factors, health and lifestyle.
• Clinical tests with antioxidants: Conducting large and well -planned clinical tests to assess the effectiveness and safety of antioxidants in the prevention and treatment of various diseases.
• Study of the interaction of antioxidants with other nutrients: The study of the interaction of antioxidants with other nutrients and their effect on health.
• Development of new methods of delivery of antioxidants: Development of new methods of delivery of antioxidants to cells and tissues, such as nanoparticles and liposomes.
• Studying the role of antioxidants in aging: A deeper understanding of the role of antioxidants in the process of aging and their influence on life expectancy.
• Development of strategies to increase endogenous antioxidant protection: Studying ways to increase your own antioxidant protection of the body, such as physical exercises and dietary interventions.
• Studying the influence of antioxidants on the intestinal microbia: The study of the effect of antioxidants on the composition and function of the intestinal microbioma and their health relationships.

These studies will help us better understand the role of antioxidants in maintaining health and preventing diseases and developing more effective strategies to protect the body from oxidative stress.