How do free radicals damage the cell?
Free radicals damage our cells in many ways. Picture a healthy cell with a cell membrane, which is the protective coat of the cell. At its center is the nucleus with an enveloping nuclear membrane. Free radicals can cause damage by: • Breaking off the cell membrane, destroying the cell’s identity. • Puncturing the cell membrane, allowing harmful bacteria and viruses to enter easily. • Destroying the nuclear membrane, exposing the nucleus and the genes. This series of destructive events render the cell susceptible to mutation of cells, immune system disorders, cell death, tissue damage and eventually diseases.
