Unfortunately these radicals produce chain reactions that lead to damage of DNA in our cells. The aging of our cells is partly result of free radical damage, also called oxidation.

Fortunately there are some simple steps that we can take to minimize damage and to promote and prolong health of our cells.

Oxidation

Free radicals are molecules that have an unpaired electron. They are chemically active and can be thought of as scavengers. They easily bond with molecules of our cells in a process called oxidation.

We are familiar with normal oxidation process of metals such as iron. Iron oxide is called rust, and we know that rust can deteriorate quality of metal. Other metals also can exhibit oxidation which we generally call corrosion. We normally take steps to prevent corrosion of metals.

Damage to our cells caused by oxidation is often called inflammation. And we can take steps to protect ourselves from cellular oxidation.

Antioxidants

There are numerous chemical compounds that will neutralize effects of oxidation. An antioxidant will bond with free radical, creating a stable molecule, and prevent radical from causing oxidation of cell. This new molecule can then be removed during normal bodily processes.

The best known antioxidants are nutrients, vitamins A, C, E and mineral selenium. Numerous other vitamins, minerals, and enzymes perform important protective antioxidant functions.

Stress is wear and tear body experiences as people adjust to ever-changing environment. It is relative to every individual. What may be considered as stressful to one person may not be true to another. Since stress factors are part of daily life, goal is not to eliminate stress but to find optimal level where stress factors motivate individual in continuing his/her life and not be overwhelmed. This is called stress management.

Life without these stress factors may lead to boredom, dejection and depression. On other hand, excess of which may make one feel tied up in knots. So, how do we know that we are attaining optimal stress level?

A clear indication that stress management has not been practiced or optimal stress level has not been attained is presence of related illness. Most sickness is due to unrelieved stress such as hypertension, dizziness, hyperacidity, etc. This indicates that stress must be reduced in daily living.