Free radicals

| A free radical is a molecule that is produced every day in our body as a result of the biological reactions that occur in cells.

What are the free radicals?

In the field of health, "free radicals" are often spoken of, this term is used when talking about diet, skin aging and various diseases.

A free radical is a molecule that is produced every day in our body as result of biological reactions that occur in cells. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules, necessary to perform certain functions and maintain health. This set of reactions occurs daily in the body and can be classified as "cellular respiration". All these reactions are necessary for cell life, but the production of free radicals over time can have negative effects as they alter cell membranes and genetic material (cell DNA).

The average biological life of a free radical is microseconds, but it has the ability to react with everything around it, causing cell damage.

What effects do they have on the body?

Antioxidants are substances in charge of neutralizing free radicals and protecting us against their damaging action on cells. Antioxidants can be found in certain foods, basically they are vitamins () such as:

•  Beta carotene (provitamin A) that we can find in fruits and vegetables such as carrots, tomatoes, mangoes or melons.
•  Vitamin E also present in fruits and vegetables (asparagus, spinach, broccoli and avocado for example).
•  Vitamin C abundant in citrus (lemon, orange), kiwi and pepper among other vegetables.
•  FlavonoidsThey are also natural substances with great antioxidant capacity, they predominate in red wine and green tea.

Following a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, cereals, fish and low in fat, vitamin supplements or any other type of supplement is not necessary, except in certain specific situations in which they are required and prescribed by your doctor. For prevent and lessen the harmful effect of the uncontrolled production of free radicals in our body the adoption of certain simple measures based on a Lifestyle Appropriate food that includes the consumption of appropriate foods, avoiding tobacco, alcohol, and sun protection can help minimize the production of free radicals.

The practice of these measures benefits our long-term health. And don't forget about them!