Antioxidants, the Guardians of Cellular Health Free radicals steal electrons from the molecules in your cells. They sneak into your life as oxygen byproducts from normal metabolism, exercise and pollution. Similarly, free radicals can sneak into your food, making oils go rancid. Ultimately, free radicals can damage your cell membranes, proteins, and DNA. In order to stay healthy, cells keep an array of antioxidants around. Antioxidants play crucial roles in protecting your cells from the harm caused by free radicals. One theory of aging suggests that the everyday effects of free radicals contribute to aging. Antioxidants can return those stolen electrons! Replenishing the body‘s antioxidants is an important step anyone can take to support healthy aging.