This test would assist you in determining whether there is sufficient antioxidants in your body to reduce excessive free radical activity. It might also indicate if there is a need to check for other factors, such as the presence of toxic heavy metals. Heavy Metals such as mercury, arsenic, lead, etc., as well as smoke from cigarettes are the most common cause of excessive free radical activity.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecular fragments that can damage cell membranes and the internal organelles of the cell.

Free Radicals are unstable molecules with only one electron. Typically, stable molecules contain pairs of electrons. When a chemical reaction breaks the bonds that hold the pair of electrons, free radicals are produced. Free radicals are therefore molecules that are unstable with an odd number of electrons.

Free radicals are created in the body internally in the following manner:

1. The primary source is from our body during the energy production process within the cells. 98% of the oxygen we breathe is used within our cells in the production of energy. The resultant effect of this energy producing activity is that a very small amount of oxygen that was not used losses electrons creating free radicals.


2. Another important source which creates lots of free radicals is the presence of toxic heavy metals in the body especially those caught up in the cellular tissues. All transition metals with the exception of copper, contains one electron in their outermost shell and can be considered a free radical. Copper, although having a full outer shell of 2 electrons, loses its electron easily and can be considered a free radical too. The following metals are, however, major free radicals creating agents in the body - mercury; calcium; aluminium; lead; chlorine; iron; cadmium


3. From foods that we consume that may have a destructive potential. An example would be fried foods in high temperature, which causes the bonds in the molecule to become unstable.


4. During normal metabolism of fat, carbohydrates and proteins


5. Stress especially oxidative stress. All chemicals and some endocrine hormones create free radicals


6. Low blood supply – generally occurs during heart attacks and strokes – forms free radicals.
   

Free Radicals are also created externally in the following situations:

1. Environmental contaminants such as pollution. Cigarette smoke in particular increases free radical load tremendously


2. Ionizing and ultraviolet radiation such as from overexposure to sunlight and prolonged exposure to x-rays


3. Excessive or over-exercising


4. Toxic chemicals and pesticides


5. Petroleum based products


6. Unhealthy foods – processed foods, fried foods, barbecued and charbroiled foods


7. Toxic products found in furniture polish and paints – eg., toluene, benzene and formaldehyde
   
   The free radicals created burn holes in our cellular membranes that weaken tissues and organs in our body. As the damage continues unchecked, the body becomes “rusty” and less able to defend itself against problems such as cancer, hardening of the arteries, premature aging and other health issues.
   

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