Why should we all get our number?

We are all under attack. Each day we are exposed to potentially dangerous and common group of molecules called free radicals. As we breathe, we take in oxygen and we generate free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that steal or "scavenge" electrons from other molecules, causing damage to our cells.

Fortunately, nature has provided a solution to the threat of free-radical damage—antioxidants. Antioxidants are stable molecules that have electrons to spare. When antioxidants come in contact with free-radical molecules, they freely share their electrons and stop the degenerative chain reaction of free-radical oxidation.

Dr. James Balch, co-author of the best selling book Prescription for Nutritional Healing, demonstrates the effect of free radicals on a cut apple. The apple becomes brown after contact from oxygen free radicals in the air. By coating the other half of the apple with lemon juice it does not decay.

Antioxidants are our body’s front line defense against free radicals. Antioxidant nutrients protect against oxidation by rendering free radicals harmless. Our bodies naturally produce some antioxidant compounds but many must be ingested through our diet. Since most people don't eat enough fruits and vegetables, use of a high quality antioxidant supplement is prudent.