Free radicals are molecules with excess energy because they are missing an electron.
This makes them highly reactive — constantly trying to stabilize by attacking nearby molecules in the body.They form naturally through breathing and metabolism, but also under the influence of pollution, UV radiation, smoking, and stress.
In small amounts, free radicals have a useful role — they help immune defense and cell communication. The problem begins when their levels rise too high. They trigger a chain reaction, damaging cell membranes, proteins, and DNA, which disrupts normal body functions. This condition, known as oxidative stress, is linked to premature aging and weakened resilience.
Our body naturally fights free radicals with antioxidant enzymes and molecules, but modern lifestyle factors — such as stress, irregular sleep, and poor diet — often create more radicals than the body can neutralize.
That’s why we need additional protection through antioxidants from food and natural extracts.
Antioxidants act like a shield — they stabilize free radicals by donating an electron, stopping the chain reaction and protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Polyphenols from grapes, resveratrol, lycopene from tomatoes, and sulforaphane from broccoli are among the most studied natural compounds.
They help maintain immune balance and vitality, keeping the body stable, energized, and protected.
Free radicals are molecules with an unpaired electron, which makes them unstable and highly reactive. In an attempt to stabilize themselves, they “steal” electrons from nearby molecules, starting a chain reaction that can damage cells. They are naturally produced in the body during breathing, energy production in the mitochondria, food digestion, and immune defense. External sources include UV radiation, pollution, smoking, toxins, and chronic stress.
Learn more about the role of the immune system on the Immunity & prevention page.
When a free radical takes an electron from a stable molecule, that molecule becomes a new radical — and the reaction spreads. This is the basis of oxidative damage. The most affected structures are:
Lipid damage. Lipids in the cell membrane oxidize (a process called lipid peroxidation). The membrane becomes fragile and permeable, making the cell more vulnerable to outside factors.
Protein damage. Radicals alter the structure of proteins, leading to the loss of enzyme and hormone function. This disrupts essential biochemical processes in the body.
DNA damage. Free radicals can cause mutations and breaks in DNA strands. The cell then functions incorrectly or enters programmed cell death (apoptosis). Over time, the accumulation of such damage accelerates aging.
Oxidative stress occurs when the body cannot maintain balance between free radicals and antioxidant defenses.
Short-term effects: fatigue, low energy, reduced immunity.
Long-term effects: accelerated aging, slower regeneration, increased susceptibility to inflammation and chronic conditions.
See how GE132+ Natural supports cellular protection from oxidative stress.
Chronic stress and lack of sleep
Diet rich in sugar and saturated fats
Smoking and alcohol
Intense physical activity without proper recovery
Pollution and environmental toxins
The body has its own antioxidant enzymes that neutralize free radicals daily:
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) – converts superoxide into hydrogen peroxide.
Catalase – breaks down hydrogen peroxide into water and oxygen.
Glutathione peroxidase – protects cells from lipid peroxidation.
There are also internal antioxidants such as glutathione and coenzyme Q10. However, with aging and continuous stress, these mechanisms weaken, so additional support becomes important.
Natural antioxidants act as a protective shield. They donate an electron to free radicals, stopping the chain reaction and preventing damage.
Vitamins: C, E, and A – protect cells from oxidative stress.
Minerals: zinc, selenium, and manganese – act as cofactors for antioxidant enzymes.
Phytonutrients: resveratrol, lycopene, sulforaphane, and curcumin – strengthen natural defenses and help maintain cellular health.
These compounds work best together – a concept known as the synergy of antioxidants.
Eat a diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, and whole foods.
Sleep at least 7–8 hours a night.
Stay physically active – moderately, but regularly.
Manage stress through relaxation, breathing, and time outdoors.
Use nutritional support rich in antioxidants during periods of fatigue or increased stress.
Free radicals are a natural part of metabolism, but when they get out of control, they cause oxidative stress that damages cells and weakens the body.
Prevention through lifestyle and antioxidant intake is key to long-term health.
Supporting your antioxidant defense system with GE132+ Natural helps keep your cells protected and your energy stable.
1. What are free radicals?
Free radicals are molecules with an unpaired electron, which makes them unstable and reactive. They “steal” electrons from nearby molecules, triggering a chain reaction that can damage cell membranes, proteins, and DNA.
2. Why is oxidative stress harmful?
Oxidative stress occurs when the body cannot neutralize the excess of free radicals. Over time, this leads to premature aging, lower immunity, and increased strain on the body’s natural defense systems.
3. What are the main natural antioxidants for cell protection?
The most recognized are vitamin C, vitamin E, grape polyphenols, resveratrol, lycopene from tomatoes, sulforaphane from broccoli, and curcumin. These compounds help neutralize free radicals and preserve cellular vitality.
Learn more about natural antioxidants on the Immunity & Prevention page.
4. How can I reduce oxidative stress in daily life?
A healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, enough sleep, regular activity, and avoiding toxins are essential steps. When the body is under higher stress or fatigue, additional support from antioxidant-rich products like GE132+ Natural can be beneficial.
5. Where can I learn more about antioxidants and healthy living?
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