Oxidation is the formation of reactive oxides (free radicals) when oxygen atoms in a molecule react chemically with other substances and release electrons. Free radicals are unstable molecules that react with molecules such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids within cells, damaging cells and body tissues.
The importance of antioxidants lies in the fact that oxidative processes are inevitable in the body, and free radicals are produced by the natural environment, food, and the body's metabolic processes, all of which can cause damage. Antioxidant substances trap and neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing or preventing damage to cells and tissues from oxidative reactions.
Antioxidants help maintain normal cellular function, slow down the aging process, and prevent the onset of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes. In addition, antioxidant also helps to enhance the function of the immune system and improve the body's resistance.
In summary, antioxidant is an important biological process that helps maintain health and prevent disease by reducing or preventing free radical damage to the body.