What Are Free Radicals?
As you probably remember from your old high school days, atoms consist of a nucleus, neutrons, protons and electrons. The number of protons (positively charged particles) in the atom’s nucleus determines the number of electrons (negatively charged particles) surrounding the atom. Electrons are involved in chemical reactions and are the substance that bonds atoms together to form molecules.
Normally, bonds don’t split in a way that leaves a molecule with an odd, unpaired electron. But when weak bonds split, free radicals are formed. Free radicals are very unstable and react quickly with other compounds, trying to capture the needed electron to gain stability. Generally, free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule, “stealing” its electron. When the “attacked” molecule loses its electron, it becomes a free radical itself, beginning a chain reaction. Once the process is started, it can cascade, finally disrupting every living cell…resulting in disease!
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Some free radicals arise normally during metabolism. Sometimes the cells of our body’s immune system purposefully create them to neutralize viruses and bacteria. However, environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides can also spawn free radicals.
Normally, the body can handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the free-radical production becomes excessive, damage can occur. Of particular importance is that free radical damage accumulates with age.
Yours in Optimal Health,
Dr. Mike
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Tags: antioxidants, free radicals, FRS, Himalayan Goji, Lifepak, Monavie, Pharmanex, Tahitian Noni, Vemma, Xango
I wonder if global warming has an effect on this..
Comment by Ian — January 5, 2010 @ 11:27 am
Nice article!
Comment by Kevon — January 5, 2010 @ 11:27 am