Antioxidants and Free Radicals: The Importance of Free Radical Measurement.

Our Bodies Produce Free Radicals.

As a result of internal and external factors, such as diet, activity level, stress, chemicals, pollutants and other factors, our bodies produce toxins. Some of these toxins are known as free radicals. Studies have shown that free radicals damage healthy cells and are one of the major causes of rapid aging, as well as many serious diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.

What are Free Radicals?

Free radicals are unstable molecules (meaning they have an unpaired electron) produced within our bodies. Free radicals damage healthy cells by "stealing" an electron from the healthy cell in order to become stable. Free radicals are naturally occurring molecules present in every person. However, internal and external factors such as diet, lifestyle, activity levels, chemicals and pollutants can increase the levels of free radicals, and thereby increase the risk of damage from free radicals. Free radical damage is also known as oxidative stress.

How Free Radicals Damage Healthy Cells

The membranes of our cells contain oxygen atoms, which are targeted by free radicals. These oxygen atoms can be "stolen" by the free radicals, altering the stability and function of a cell. This process is known as lipid peroxidation, and creates a chain reaction that increases the presence of other free radicals in the body. This activity of free radicals in our bodies can cause cell membranes to deteriorate to the extent that they will fail to function effectively. The cellular membrane is a very important part of the human body because it facilitates communication among different systems within the body. Scientists have concluded that the cellular membrane is the true ‘brain’ of the cell, and has greater effect on our biological well being than any of the other microscopic components of our bodies.

Excessive Free Radicals Cause Diseases

Free radicals are molecules, present in every person, but can become unstable leading to cell damage and eventually disease. Free radical damage is also referred to as oxidative stress or simply cell or tissue damage. Extensive scientific research has shown that an overabundance of free radicals is associated with many degenerative diseases including heart and lung disease, cancer, and premature aging (M. Trevisan, American Journal of Epidemiology 2001).

Antioxidants Can Protect But Which Ones Really Work?

Certain antioxidants in foods and antioxidant supplements can reduce free radical damage. Studies have shown that antioxidants reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as various types of heart and eye disease, as well as reduce the risk of cancer. However, because there are many antioxidant supplements available and each of our bodies reacts differently, it is important to use products that reduce free radical damage for you.

Revelar and Free Radical Damage Measurement

Revelar is breakthrough breath technology that accurately detects and measures the presence of aldehydes, which are indicators of free radical damage in the body (R. Andreoli, Rapid Commun Mass Spectrum 2003). The true value of Revelar testing begins with the first score. It provides a baseline to help determine what can impact the score over time. You can determine what effect antioxidant supplements and other forms of treatment have on your aldehyde levels. This way you can help yourself get to a healthier life.