Free-radical Scavengers

Introduction

• Free radicals are highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons.
• They can cause damage to cells, DNA, and proteins, contributing to various diseases and ageing.
• Free-radical scavengers, also known as antioxidants, are compounds that neutralise free radicals by donating electrons to stabilise them.

Types of Free-Radical Scavengers

• There are natural and synthetic free-radical scavengers.
• Natural scavengers include vitamins (e.g., vitamin C and vitamin E), flavonoids, and polyphenols found in fruits, vegetables, and teas.
• Synthetic scavengers, such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), are often added to processed foods.

How Free-Radical Scavengers Work

• Free-radical scavengers work by donating electrons to free radicals, stabilising them without becoming reactive themselves.
• This process breaks the chain reaction of free-radical damage.

Antioxidant Examples

• Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid):
  • Molecular Formula: $C_6H_8O_6$
  • Reaction: $C_6H_8O_6 → C_6H_6O_6 + 2H^+ + 2e^-$ (oxidation)
• Vitamin E (Tocopherols):
  • Reaction: $Tocopherol → Tocopheroxyl + H^+ + e^-$ (oxidation)

Sources of Antioxidants

• Antioxidants can be found in various foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
• Examples:
  • Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits, berries, and green leafy vegetables.
  • Vitamin E: Found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
  • Flavonoids: Found in apples, onions, and tea.
  • Polyphenols: Found in red wine, dark chocolate, and green tea.

---

Free-radical Scavengers

Benefits of Antioxidants

• Antioxidants help protect cells from oxidative damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• They may improve overall health and contribute to a longer, healthier life.

Conclusion

• Free-radical scavengers, or antioxidants, are compounds that neutralise harmful free radicals by donating electrons.
• They can be natural or synthetic and are found in various foods.
• Antioxidants play a vital role in maintaining health and preventing oxidative damage to cells and tissues.