Why Free Radicals May Hold the Secret to Eternal Youth

The mythical Fountain of Youth is yet to be discovered, in spite of hundreds of explorations dating back to the Middle Ages. This articles discusses the role of Free Radicals in the aging process, and why the secret to eternal youth lies here.

The mythical Fountain of Youth is yet to be discovered, in spite of hundreds of explorations dating back to the Middle Ages. Until the Fountain of Youth is found, we must watch our bodies succumb to the rigors and ravages of time before finally succumbing to fatigue and illness.

A major factor behind the deterioration of body tissue as we grow older is the oxidation process. Oxidation is the reaction of oxygen on substances. Ever wondered why metal turns rusty, a cut apple goes brown and exposed fat turns rancid? Well, these phenomena are examples of oxidation. Similar oxidation processes take place within your body.

Oxidation in the body is caused by the presence of free radicals. Free radicals are an inevitable by product of the body's biochemical processes whereby cells absorb oxygen, use it for metabolism then release carbon dioxide and other by-products. Oxidation acts upon tissues, cells and DNA, causing numerous human diseases including cancer, heart disease, lung disease, eye disorders, inflammatory disease, rheumatoid arthritis as well as the aging process.

All chemical reactions in the universe take place through the bonding of atoms and electrons to form molecules of the substances we know and see. Electrons are negatively charged particles. The number of electrons an atom possesses determines how it bonds with other atoms to form molecules. For instance two hydrogen atoms and a single oxygen atom combine to form a water molecule (H2O).

In the human body, groups of molecules further combine with other molecules to form complex organic substances. Reactive processes take place all over our cells to produce hormones, to fight disease, to create new cells and to produce the energy we need to function. That is why its necessary to eat and breathe!

During the course of the body's chemical reactions, some molecules and atoms find themselves with a deficit of electrons. These atoms are what are called free radicals. The deficit of an electron makes free radicals unstable, forcing them to steal electrons in order to regain stability. The molecule whose electrons have been stolen in turn becomes a free radical and must also seek an electron elsewhere. This sparks-off a chain reaction.

The very nature of free radicals makes them useful in combating disease causing micro-organisms and toxins. Free radicals steal electrons from these harmful agents, destabilizing their operations and rendering them impotent. However, excessive numbers of free radicals in the body can attack our own cells causing illness, abnormal growth or creation of harmful material such as arterial deposits that hinder blood flow.

Modern society exposes us to many different elements which can promote an over-abundance of free radicals. Exhaust fumes and other environmental pollution are believed to increase the amount of free radicals in the body. Our foods are over-processed with preservatives, flavorings and pigments. The water we drink is not as pure as our bodies were built to handle. Finances, career uncertainty and the demands of families contribute to mental stress which drives us into seeking solace in tobacco, alcohol and junk food all of which increase free radical production in the body.

A recent University of California study which found that damage caused by excess free radicals accumulates with age and is a major contributor to conditions such as cancer, heart disease and immune system decline.

The very nature of metabolism means that, despite its oxidation effects, we cannot do without oxygen in our bodies. Also, we cannot live without such conveniences as cars, mobile phones, television and electricity. Our economies function through the industrial processes that create these modern conveniences. Nevertheless we can choose to eat foods containing the right nutrients to keep free radicals at bay.

How to Minimize the Impact of Free Radicals
Vitamins C and E, are thought to protect the body against the destructive effects of free radicals. These vitamins are attributed with the ability to neutralize free radicals by donating one of their own electrons, ending the electron "stealing" reaction. The antioxidant vitamins themselves don't become free radicals after donating an electron because they are stable in either form. They help prevent cell and tissue damage that could lead to disease.

Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, strawberries, melons, sweet potatoes, cabbage, tomatoes, cauliflower and guavas. Vitamin E is found in poultry, sea food, seeds, nuts, vegetable oils, wheat germ, eggs and liver. Just like other things in life, taking the right quantities of these vitamins is important. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that gets lost easily and thus requires frequent intake. Vitamin E is found in fatty foods which are stored in the body, therefore Vitamin E does not need to be consumed daily.

It turns out that the secret to vitality, health and long life comes down to eating the right foods, in the right proportions. These are simple, cost-effective changes we can make to our diet and lifestyles that can greatly enhance our enjoyment of life. And Some day, when free radicals finally reveal their secret to science, we shall live happily ever after.

References
"Great Health Hints & Handy Tips," edited by Pat Kramer, 1996; Published by Reader's
Digest, Southern Africa ISBN: 1-874912-42-4

www.mediterrasian.com/free_radicals.htm
"Free Radicals & Antioxidants"
www.kingjamesomegatech-lab.com
King James Medical Labs of Cleveland, Ohio
www.healthchecksystems.com/antioxid.htm
"Understanding Free Radicals and Antioxidants"

Useful Links
www.mediterrasian.com/free_radicals.htm
www.kingjamesomegatech-lab.com
www.healthchecksystems.com/antioxid.htm
www.healthchecksystems.com/antioxid.htm