How do antioxidants contribute to health?

Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining health primarily by neutralizing free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, leading to potential damage to cells, proteins, and DNA. By neutralizing these free radicals, antioxidants help to protect the body from cellular damage, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. This protective action is why they are considered beneficial for health.

Other options do not accurately depict the role of antioxidants. For instance, muscle growth is primarily stimulated by protein intake and exercise rather than antioxidant action. Although fat absorption is influenced by certain nutrients, it is not a function associated with antioxidants. Additionally, increasing blood sugar levels relates to carbohydrate metabolism and regulation, not the activity of antioxidants.