ABSTRACT
Antioxidant systems in humans consist of antioxidant enzymes and dietary and endogenous antioxidant chemicals. Although all micronutrients are essential for growth and development, antioxidants have been the subject of extensive laboratory research and clinical studies because of their potential importance in reducing oxidative stress and inammation that contribute to the initiation and progression of chronic diseases. Before discussing the role of antioxidant systems in reducing the risk of developing chronic diseases, it is essential to understand certain basic facts about them. Some dietary and endogenous antioxidant chemicals and certain polyphonic compounds reduce oxidative stress by directly scavenging free radicals as well as by increasing antioxidant enzymes through the activation of a transcriptional factor-2 (Nrf2)/ARE (antioxidant response element) pathway. Therefore, a combination of dietary and endogenous antioxidant chemicals and certain polyphenolic compounds would reduce oxidative stress and chronic inammation optimally.
