antioxidant etymology

Etymology:

  • anti- (from Greek "anti-", meaning "against")
  • oxidant (from Latin "oxidare", meaning "to unite with oxygen")

Meaning:

An antioxidant is a substance that counteracts the effects of oxidants by limiting the formation of free radicals or scavenging them before they can cause damage to cells and tissues.

Origin:

The term "antioxidant" was first used in 1944 by the American chemist Denham Harman. Harman proposed the "free radical theory of aging," which suggested that the accumulation of free radicals in the body contributes to aging and the development of age-related diseases.

Free Radicals and Oxidative Stress:

Free radicals are unstable molecules with unpaired electrons that can damage cells by causing oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them.

Role of Antioxidants:

Antioxidants play a vital role in protecting the body from the harmful effects of free radicals. They work by:

  • Neutralizing free radicals by donating electrons
  • Scavenging free radicals and preventing their damage to cells
  • Stimulating the production of other antioxidants
  • Repairing oxidative damage

Sources of Antioxidants:

Antioxidants are found naturally in a wide variety of foods, including:

  • Fruits and vegetables (e.g., berries, citrus fruits, leafy greens)
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Whole grains
  • Green tea
  • Dark chocolate

Antioxidants can also be obtained through supplements, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking antioxidant supplements.

antioxidant relate terms

  • oxidant

    Etymology The word oxidant is derived from the Latin word oxidare which means to co

  • oxidation

    Etymology Latin oxidatio French oxydation Meaning Oxidation refers to the chemica

  • anti

    Etymology The word anti has its origins in the Greek prefix ἀντί anti meanin

  • antipasto

    Etymology The word antipasto is derived from the Italian words ante meaning before

  • answer

    Etymology Meaning A response to a question or request Origin The word answer come

  • anticipate

    Etymology Latin anticipare from ante before capere to take Literally meaning

  • antique

    Etymology From Middle English antique anglicized loan word from Old French antique an

  • coordinate

    Etymology Latin coordinare meaning to arrange to order to put in order From the pr

  • decoration

    Etymology Latin decoratio From decorare meaning to decorate adorn From the Pro

  • seedy

    Etymology The word seedy comes from the Middle English word seed which itself deriv

  • academy

    Etymology The word academy comes from the Greek word akademeia which was the name of

  • Adam

    Etymology Derived from the Hebrew word adamah אדמה meaning earth or ground

  • hail

    Etymology The word hail comes from the Proto Germanic root hagul meaning hailstone

  • boast

    Etymology Old English boastan to brag threaten Proto West Germanic bōstijaną

  • Easter

    Etymology The word Easter originated from the Old English word Eostre which was the