Regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended in the diet since they are a good source of antioxidants. How do antioxidants help a person maintain health and promote longevity?

1. They activate the enzyme necessary for vitamin synthesis in the body and help prevent vitamin deficiency.
2. They prevent excessive oxidation of carbohydrates, fats and protein in the body and help avoid unnecessary wastage of energy.
3. They neutralise the free radical produced in the body during metabolism.
4. They activate certain genes in the cells of the body and help delay the ageing process.

Explanation

Option (c) is correct

• Antioxidants—such as vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and flavonoids—neutralize free radicals by donating electrons, thereby protecting the body from oxidative stress and cellular damage.
• Free radicals are unstable molecules generated during normal metabolism and by environmental stressors such as pollution and UV radiation. These molecules can harm cells, proteins, and DNA, playing a role in ageing and the development of diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Answer: (c) They neutralise the free radical produced in the body during metabolism | Difficulty Level: Easy