In recent years, antioxidants have been touted as a secret to healthy living: The molecules bind to reactive oxygen compounds called "free radicals" that
are known to damage the body’s tissues. The amount of oxidative damage increases with age, and according to one theory of aging it is a major cause of the body’s decline [The New York Times].
But a new study examined the effects of the antioxidant vitamins C and E when combined with an exercise regimen, and found a considerably more complicated story. The researchers found that free radicals may be beneficial in small doses, and may even help protect against diabetes.
And mopping them up with antioxidants may do more harm than good [BBC News].
During a workout, the muscles metabolize glucose to create energy, but in the process some free radicals are released. The body has a natural defense mechanism to combat these free radicals, ...
