Vitamin C is one of the most important antioxidants. Vitamin C safeguards the water-soluble substances in the body from damage by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules with an unpaired electron—they are hungry for another electron. Free radicals are unstable and react quickly with other compounds.
Normally, free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule, “stealing” its electron, as seen in Figure 2-3. This attack is known as oxidative stress. When the “attacked” molecule loses its electron, it can become a free radical itself, beginning a chain reaction that can continue. If this chain reaction continues, it can disrupt a living cell. Free radicals occur normally during metabolism. Also, the body’s immune system purposefully creates them to neutralize viruses and bacteria. Other sources of free radicals and other oxidative stresses include environmental factors such as pollution, hard radiation, cigarette smoke, and certain pesticides.
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