What are Free Radicals?

What are free radicals?

They are harmful molecules that can damage cells reacting against its components. This is called oxidation and can cause serious cell damage. To minimize damage, cells contain antioxidants (molecules that eliminate the radicals).

There are 2 kinds of antioxidants that work together:

* Enzymatic antioxidants: produced in the cell and can not be obtained through food supplementation.

* Non-enzymatic antioxidants: the most important include vitamin E, C and b-carotene (vitamin A). They are present in many foods and can also be obtained through supplements. Vitamin E and b-carotene protect cell membranes from radical damage. Vitamin C works with vitamin E to protect both lipid substances like proteins in the cells of radical damage.

People who exercise regularly have an increased production of free radicals. If exercise is intense or prolonged, can cause injury to skeletal muscles induced by radicals, especially in untrained or recreational athletes. Moreover, the radicals probably contribute to muscle fatigue during endurance events. It is important to ensure an adequate intake of antioxidants through food.

Although many studies in humans suggest that supplementation with vitamin E or vitamin C reduce radical-induced injury, there is little evidence that can boost athletic performance. Further studies are needed before it can reach a definitive conclusion. Similarly, high intakes of antioxidants may have adverse health effects due to high levels of some antioxidants can be toxic. For athletes who consider the use of antioxidant supplements should be consultation with a trained nutritionist before adding to your diet.

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