by Marie Antonia Parsons

Created on: November 25, 2009   Last Updated: December 02, 2009

Pomegranate juice and green tea are two of the foods rich in anti-oxidants. Our diet should include those nutrients in order to combat excess formation in our bodies of components called free radicals. Antioxidants combat the excess formation of free radicals in our bodies.

Free Radicals are not always something of which to be concerned. They are simple byproducts of normal cell function, or they might be brought in by environmental factors through our skin or during respiration. Sometimes they are beneficial, since they are often produced to kill harmful invading bacteria and viruses.

But they can also damage cells and DNA, and studies have shown that free radicals can also contribute to the aging of our skin and organ functions. A healthy diet and lifestyle can help control free radical formation.

Cells are made up of atoms. Atoms consist of a central nucleus containing protons, surrounded by electrons in orbits or shells. The electrons in each shell are paired. If the outermost shell contains an unpaired electron, the atom completes its shell by sharing electrons of another atom.

A free radical has an unpaired electron in its outer shell. In order to complete the electron pair, the radical will steal electrons from another cell, turning it into a free radical which in turn will steal electrons from another celland so on, continuing unless checked.

Mitochondria manufacture our energy in their DNA, and release free radicals within our bodies. Usually, as parts of the mitochondria wear out, they can be repaired or replaced. Free radicals however damage both the cell membranes, and the DNA within the mitochondria. This DNA cannot be repaired, and these cells can no longer function and can die.

Radicals are linked to many diseases and old age. They have been linked to liver damage due to alcohol consumption, and emphysema from smoking cigarettes. Cigarettes themselves contain free radicals, to which we are exposed through the smoke. Radicals exist in the atmosphere, formed during the burning of fuels or when ozone is produced. Once they are inhaled, radicals are absorbed into our tissues and can lead to cellular damage.They have been linked to degenerative diseases such as cancers of varying types, diabetes, atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Radicals are also linked to the aging process, as discovered by Dr. Denham Harman around 50 years ago. Dr. Harman is considered the father of the Free Radical Theory, publishing the first study of antioxidants in the diet

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