Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells by reacting with proteins, DNA, or membrane lipids. They form naturally during metabolism but increase during stress, illness, or toxin exposure. Antioxidants protect cells by stabilizing these reactive molecules. An antioxidant donates an electron to the free radical. This donation does not harm the antioxidant because it remains stable after the transfer. Once the free radical receives the electron, it loses its reactivity. It can no l