What process do accumulating free radicals trigger, potentially causing cell damage?
Answer
Oxidative stress
Antioxidants found in squash operate by neutralizing unstable molecules known as free radicals. These radicals are naturally generated during energy conversion processes or result from external environmental factors like toxins in the air. When these free radicals accumulate within the body without being sufficiently neutralized, they initiate a damaging cascade known as oxidative stress. This chronic cellular damage is implicated in the development pathway of several serious conditions, including various forms of cancer and heart disease.
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