Antioxidants are natural or man-made compounds that protect your cells from damage by neutralizing unstable molecules called free radicals, which contribute to aging and diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Your body produces some, but you get more from foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains (Vitamins A, C, E, beta-carotene, selenium, etc.). They work by donating electrons to free radicals, stabilizing them and preventing oxidative stress.
