Antioxidants: Your Daily Protection Against Free Radicals
Antioxidants are substances that neutralize free radicals in the body. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that are produced during normal metabolic processes, for example, in the mitochondria. Additionally, they can be formed in greater numbers due to external factors such as UV radiation, smoking, or alcohol consumption.
Normally, there is a balance between free radicals and antioxidant defense mechanisms. If this balance is disturbed, so-called oxidative stress occurs. This can damage important cellular components such as DNA, proteins, and cell membranes, and in the long term, lead to functional disorders or cell death.
Antioxidants work by scavenging free radicals and rendering them harmless. The body produces its own antioxidant enzymes, and antioxidants are also taken in through food – especially through fruits, vegetables, nuts, and other plant-based foods.
Resveratrol is a secondary plant compound from the group of polyphenols. It possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce oxidative stress.