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Anti-oxidant - Definition of Anti-Oxidant

By Matthew Schmitz, M.D., About.com

Updated: November 21, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition:

An antioxidant is any substance that works within the body to reduce oxidative damage. Highly reactive chemicals within the body, such as free radicals, can damage the normal tissues of the body. Antioxidants work to counteract this damage.

Well-known antioxidants include vitamin C and vitamin E.

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