Free Radicals

Short Definition
Free radicals are unstable atoms that damage cells and DNA.

Longer Explanation

1. Electrons like to be in pairs; they act like two strong magnets stuck together.
2. Metabolism splits pairs of oxygen into single atoms that have unpaired electrons.
3. Atoms with unpaired electrons, called free radicals, behave like a single strong magnet.
4. Free radicals pull electrons from living tissue to form electron pairs, causing damage to cells, proteins, and DNA.
5. Antioxidants such as vitamin C donate electrons that form pairs with free radicals, disarming them and preventing tissue damage.