How do antioxidant flavanoids in tea protect the body from free radicals?
Tea is a rich source of flavonoid antioxidants (1, 2). Antioxidants may help the body protect itself from free radicals. Free radicals are thought to occur in the body as part of normal cellular processes as well as in response to excess pollution, UV sunlight and exposure to cigarette smoke. Damage by free radicals is one factor thought to contribute to the development of many chronic diseases (22, 23).