What Are Free Radicals?
Free radicals are unstable molecules produced as natural byproducts of cellular metabolism. Every millisecond of every day, our bodies generate these small oxygenated molecules as part of normal biological processes. While some free radical activity is essential for immune function and cellular signalling, an excess of free radicals leads to a condition known as oxidative stress.
When free radicals accumulate beyond the body's ability to neutralise them, they begin to destroy healthy body cells, affecting both the skin and internal organs. This cellular damage is a fundamental driver of premature ageing and a contributing factor in many chronic health concerns.
Sources of Free Radicals
While the body naturally produces free radicals through metabolism, numerous external factors significantly increase their production:
- Environmental pollution: Air pollutants and industrial chemicals generate free radicals upon contact with body tissues.
- Pesticides and herbicides: Chemical residues in food and water can increase oxidative stress.
- Fried and processed foods: High-temperature cooking and processed food consumption generate free radicals in the digestive system.
- Sun exposure: Ultraviolet radiation from the sun is a potent trigger for free radical production in the skin.
- Tobacco smoke: Both direct smoking and second-hand smoke exposure dramatically increase free radical levels.
- Chronic stress: Psychological stress elevates cortisol and triggers inflammatory pathways that generate additional free radicals.
Free Radicals and Health
The damage caused by free radicals extends beyond surface-level ageing. Free radicals can oxidise LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream, contributing to the formation of arterial plaques — a process known as atherosclerosis. This is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke.
Free radical damage also affects DNA integrity, cellular membrane function, and protein structure throughout the body. Over time, this cumulative damage accelerates the ageing process and may compromise the body's natural defence and repair mechanisms.
The Role of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are molecules that can safely interact with free radicals and neutralise them before they cause cellular damage. The body produces some antioxidants naturally, but dietary and supplemental sources are essential for maintaining adequate antioxidant defences, especially in modern environments with high free radical exposure.
Among the body's most powerful antioxidants is glutathione — a tripeptide present in every cell. Often called the "master antioxidant," glutathione plays a central role in neutralising free radicals, supporting immune function, and facilitating detoxification processes.
Triotein: Optimising Glutathione Levels
While many antioxidant supplements exist, research has shown that oral glutathione supplements are not effectively absorbed by the body. The most effective approach to raising glutathione levels is through undenatured whey protein, which provides the precursor amino acids the body needs to synthesise glutathione naturally.
NHT Global's Triotein is specifically formulated to optimise the body's glutathione levels through this mechanism. By providing the building blocks for natural glutathione production, Triotein supports the body's own antioxidant defence system at the cellular level.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.