In much the same way as oxidation creates rust, causing a breakdown on the surface of inanimate objects, oxidation inside the body causes a breakdown of cells.
Free radicals produced by this breakdown attack healthy cells, usually DNA as well as proteins and fats.
This chain of events weakens immunological functions as well as speeding up the aging process, and is also linked to several diseases such as cataracts, various forms of cancer, and heart disease.
Some studies indicate possible links to arthritis and several other chronic conditions.

Antioxidants, or anti-oxidation agents, reduce the effect of dangerous oxidants by binding together with these harmful molecules, decreasing their destructive power.
Antioxidants can also help repair damage already sustained by cells.
Certain antioxidant enzymes are produced within the body. The most commonly recognized of these naturally occurring antioxidants are Superoxide Dismutase, Catalase, and Glutathione.
Superoxide Dismutase changes the structure of oxidants and breaks them down into hydrogen peroxide.
Catalase in turn, breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and tiny oxygen particles or gasses.
Glutathione is a detoxifying agent, which binds with different toxins to change their form so that they are able to leave the body as waste.

Other antioxidant agents are found in foods, such as dark green leafy vegetables.
Items high in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene are believed to be the most beneficial.
These nutrients are commonly found in fruits and vegetables, those with the strongest colors being healthiest.
Orange and red peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and carrots are examples.

	Product Name	Short Description	Further Information
	Zinc and Vitamin B6	Zinc is essential for the working of every single cell in the body and assists in the correct functioning of enzymes within the cell. Available from The Finchley Clinic