Antioxidants 'neutralize', or render harmless, oxygen free radical molecules. Free radicals are highly reactive toxic by-products of bio-chemical reactions that occur both as a part of normal cell metabolism and when the body is exposed to damaging environmental influences such as excessive UV rays from sunlight, cigarette smoke and toxins in our food, air and water.
The oxidative damage caused by free radicals has been linked to the onset of many degenerative diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis, cataracts, and age-related macular degeneration as well as premature ageing. Antioxidants therefore play a vital role in our health and well being.