Antioxidant level, or oxidative stress, measures the body’s cells’ ability to absorb or release electrons. This is important because of molecules commonly referred to as free radicals. Free radicals are a byproduct of oxidation—the process of burning oxygen as part of the body’s normal function. Free radicals have an extra, unpaired electron. Since electrons prefer to remain paired, free radicals literally scavenge other molecules and “steal” an electron to make themselves complete. This damages previously healthy molecules, and leaves them less able to perform their designated tasks.
The body produces natural antioxidants to minimize free radical damage. These important nutrients give up an electron so it can pair up with an unpaired electron before damage is done. The process of donating or accepting electrons is called oxidation and reduction, or redox. Redox potential indicates the amount of electrons available in a fluid that is being tested, and represents overall electron activity—the more available electrons the better.
Our ability to produce antioxidants internally decreases as we age, and is also hampered by unhealthy environmental factors and lifestyle choices. High oxidative stress weakens the immune system and makes the body more susceptible to illness and disease. It also causes premature aging if the body can’t keep up with the free radical activity, as the damage accumulates and fast forwards chronic degeneration. For this same reason, many degenerative diseases such as arthritis, diabetes, and cataracts are linked to the effects of free radicals.