Entrepreneur & Mentor
Antioxidants vs Free Radicals
Antioxidants and free radicals are closely connected. Think of them as a balanced system inside the body.
Free radicals — the “sparks”
Free radicals are unstable molecules produced naturally when our cells use oxygen. They can also increase because of factors such as pollution, smoking, excessive UV exposure, inflammation, alcohol and other environmental stresses.
Because they are unstable, free radicals can react with and damage important cell components. This is called oxidative stress.
Antioxidants — the “defence”
Antioxidants help protect cells by neutralising free radicals before they can cause as much damage.
They include nutrients and compounds such as vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids and various polyphenols. Your body also produces its own antioxidant enzymes.
So the goal isn’t to eliminate all free radicals—they also have useful roles in normal biological processes. The goal is to maintain a healthy balance between oxidative activity and antioxidant protection.
How do we know if we have a “high” antioxidant level?
This is where it gets more complicated. There isn’t one universal blood test that tells you your body’s total antioxidant level or proves that your immune system has enough antioxidants.
Different antioxidant systems exist in different tissues and fluids, and antioxidant status can vary according to diet, lifestyle, age, metabolism and other factors.
Some technologies can measure specific antioxidant compounds or antioxidant-related biomarkers. For example, Prysm iO - skin-based optical scanners can estimate carotenoid levels in the skin. Carotenoids are antioxidant compounds found in foods such as colourful fruits and vegetables.
However, a carotenoid reading should not be interpreted as a measurement of all antioxidants in the body, nor as proof that someone has a strong immune system or is protected from disease.
The simplest way to understand it
Free radicals → oxidative pressure
Antioxidants → help counter oxidative pressure
Healthy lifestyle + nutritious diet → supports the body’s antioxidant defence system
And importantly, more antioxidants isn’t automatically better. What matters is maintaining a healthy biological balance rather than trying to achieve the highest possible number.
Message me to arrange a free scan. Please like and share
