What role do antioxidants play in chronic disease prevention?

Antioxidants play a crucial role in chronic disease prevention primarily by neutralizing free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the body by damaging cells, proteins, and DNA. This oxidative damage is linked to the progression of various chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.

By neutralizing these free radicals, antioxidants help to mitigate the oxidative damage and reduce inflammation, which can lower the risk of developing chronic diseases. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, are often emphasized in dietary guidelines aimed at promoting health and preventing disease.

The other options do not align with the established functions of antioxidants. Enhancing digestion is more related to dietary fiber and enzymes. The idea that antioxidants add calories is misleading as they commonly come from low-calorie foods rich in phytonutrients. Lastly, dismissing antioxidants as irrelevant to disease risk ignores substantial evidence supporting their protective role in health and disease prevention.