Antioxidant definition and health benefits

Consuming extra virgin olive oil means consuming a product that has a high antioxidant content. Although this sounds fantastic, a lot of people have no idea of the power of this quality in the body. The definition of antioxidant can help us to understand how this quality works in the body..

Definition of the term

The word “antioxidant” is composed of the prefix ‘anti’ and the adjective ‘oxidant’, which means: “that which oxidizes or serves to oxidize”. Whenever the prefix ‘anti’ appears with any adjective it means the opposite of the adjective that accompanies it. The definition of antioxidant is therefore: “that which prevents oxidation”.

Why antioxidants are essential for health

Oxidation takes place because of the free radicals that damage the cells of the body. Various diseases, as well as the aging process, occur due to this oxidizing process, as these free radicals result in mutations and progressive cellular deterioration.

A high-quality olive oil, such as the oils from Carapelli, is largely made up of antioxidants—polyphenols, vitamin E and monounsaturated fatty acids—that neutralize the free radicals in the body and, as a result, prevent and delay cell aging and a range of diseases that are derived from mutations in the body.

The first step is to take note of the definition of antioxidant, since the entire meaning of the term is encompassed in word itself. When you consume extra virgin olive oil, you are consuming the health that is necessary to maintain a healthy, youthful and active body. Enjoy good olive oil and maintain a balanced diet.