These chemical changes in the body may contribute to numerous diseases, and to the aging process itself. Free radicals release iron which is usually tightly bound to protein, and it is this free iron that is associated with Parkinson s disease. An antioxidant is a defense system in the body. It protects the body and combats the detrimental effects of free radicals. Free radicals can damage humans at the cellular level and cause diminished function in major organ systems.
Vitamin E is an antioxidant.
It has many biologic activities. It is especially important for normal development of the nervous system and for maintaining neurological structure and function. Vitamin E has many roles in the body. It protects our cell membranes from free radical damage within many different organs, among them, the brain, eye, prostate and heart. Practically speaking, this may result in delayed dependence for people with Alzheimer s, slowed macular degeneration, decreased risk for prostate cancer and diminished pain of arthritis.