ABSTRACT
An interface is more than a geometrical boundary. No scientific evidence exists that the supplements of antioxidants reduce the risk of degenerative diseases and lengthen life. Hypotheses on the reasons for the apparent lack of efficiency follow: compounds resulting from redox reactions are not all chemically stable and do not prevent the progression of the chain oxidizing reaction; when administered excessively, they could interfere with vital oxidizing reactions, which are not so bad, they serve as signs of communication and activation of natural defenses, immunity or reparative that avoid worse paths. Although people take amounts of antioxidants, their presence in the tissues does not show a direct relation to the ingestion, and it seems that the attributed antioxidant effect could be done not only by direct action but inducing the synthesis of other organic antioxidants via the expression of genes encoding them. It is healthy and appropriate to obtain a natural diet, rich in antioxidants; but it does not seem reasonable to recommend using commercial preparations in megadosis. Some of the most powerful natural antioxidants are thiols and polyphenols, which make up numerous families. In order to study, one must be motivated.
