Antioxidants neutralize free radicals as the natural by-product
of normal cell processes. Free radicals are molecules with
incomplete electron shells which make them more chemically
reactive than those with complete electron shells. Exposure to
various environmental factors, including tobacco smoke and
radiation, can also lead to free radical formation. In humans,
the most common form of free radicals is oxygen. When an oxygen
molecule (O2) becomes electrically charged or "radicalized" it
tries to steal electrons from other molecules, causing damage to
the DNA and other molecules. Over time, such damage may become
irreversible and lead to disease including cancer. Antioxidants
are often described as "mopping up" free radicals, meaning they
neutralize the electrical charge and prevent the free radical
from taking electrons from other molecules.
