Antioxidants are compounds that play a key role in combating oxidative stress, a state caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, leading to aging and various diseases, including cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants, found in foods like berries, nuts, and leafy greens, work by neutralizing these free radicals. Research in nutrition has shown that a diet rich in antioxidants may help reduce oxidative stress, protecting cellular health and supporting longevity. Recent studies are investigating the effect of various antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, on specific conditions like Alzheimer’s and diabetes. While antioxidant supplements are available, evidence suggests that a balanced diet offers the most comprehensive health benefits, highlighting the need for whole foods to enhance the body's natural defenses against oxidative damage.