How Free Radicals are Formed
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| Normally, bonds don’t split in a
way that leaves a molecule with an odd, unpaired electron. But
when weak bonds split, free radicals are formed. Free radicals
are very unstable and react quickly with other compounds, trying
to capture the needed electron to gain stability. Generally,
free radicals attack the nearest stable molecule, "stealing" its
electron. When the "attacked" molecule loses its electron, it
becomes a free radical itself, beginning a chain reaction. Once
the process is started, it can cascade, finally resulting in the
disruption of a living cell. Some free radicals arise normally during metabolism. Sometimes the body’s immune system’s cells purposefully create them to neutralize viruses and bacteria. However, environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, cigarette smoke and herbicides can also spawn free radicals. Normally, the body can handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the free-radical production becomes excessive, damage can occur. Of particular importance is that free radical damage accumulates with age.
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