THE ROLE OF ANTIOXIDANTS IN DISEASE PREVENTION

Abstract

 In the last 30 years, interest has grown in problems related to oxidative stress and free radicals, which cause or worsen various pathologies. Thus, research seeks alternatives to reduce the harmful effects of excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and improve the body's antioxidant capacity, as a form of treatment and prevention of diseases and their complications. In view of the epidemiological growth of non-communicable chronic diseases, several sources of nutrients with antioxidant function are studied. As oxidative stress is a negative factor, present in most chronic diseases, antioxidants are considered effective agents in the prophylaxis and fight against these pathologies.