Antioxidants are compounds that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules produced by our body's metabolism or from external sources like pollution, radiation, etc.
They are important because free radicals can cause oxidative stress and contribute to the development of various chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, etc. Antioxidants can neutralize free radicals before they cause harm, protect our cells and promote overall health.