Antioxidants.. what are they?

Antioxidants are substances that may protect the cells in the body from free radical damage that can occur from exposure to certain chemicals, smoking, pollution, radiation and as a by-product of normal metabolism. The body produces a lot of free oxygen molecules and other- by products, which can lead to oxidative stress.The body requires a wide variety of antioxidants to help support your body to deal with oxidation and which will in turn support optimized wellness. Dietary antioxidants include selenium, vitamin A, carotenoids, vitamins C and E, and various phytochemicals such as lycopene, lutein, and quercetin. Antioxidants are found in many different foods including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains and smaller amounts are found in meats, poultry and fish.