NUTR 1010 Study Guide - Final Guide: Antioxidant, Vitamin A, Collagen
12 Oct 2016
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Document Summary
They are compounds which protect our bodies that is caused by oxidation. It is a chemical reaction that takes place when an atom loses an electron. When atoms remain unpaired, free radicals are formed. It can be caused by oxidation reactions happening in the body: there is no control, they are happening all the time. Other metabolic processes can cause this: immune system fights infection, no control. Other factors can cause this: such as pollution, overexposure to sun, toxic substances, radiation exposure, cigarette smoke, asbestos, free radicals are formed when there is continuous exposure. Free radicals damage our cells: they steal electrons from stable compounds in order to stabilize itself, which generates more free radicals. Free radicals damage ldl cholesterol, cell proteins, and genetic material. This damage is undesirable because it disrupts transport of substances in and out of cells, alters protein and disrupts cell function.
