Regular intake of fresh fruits and vegetables is recommended in the diet since they are a good…

Answer: (c) They neutralize the free radicals produced in the body during metabolism

Antioxidants are chemicals that interact with free radicals and neutralise them, stopping them from causing damage. Free radicals form naturally in the body, including as by-products of metabolism. Left unchecked, they damage DNA, proteins and other cell components. By neutralising them, antioxidants protect cells, which supports health and longevity.

• ✓ (c) Free radicals are highly reactive molecules produced in normal body processes, including the conversion of food into energy. Antioxidants interact with and neutralise them, which is why they are also called free radical scavengers.
• ✗ (a) Antioxidants do not work by activating enzymes for vitamin synthesis. Some vitamins, such as C and E, themselves act as antioxidants, but antioxidants do not make vitamins or prevent vitamin deficiency.
• ✗ (b) The body's normal oxidation of carbohydrates, fats and proteins releases energy and is essential, so it is not 'wastage'. Antioxidants act against harmful free radicals, not against these energy-yielding reactions.
• ✗ (d) This is not how antioxidants protect health. Their defining role is to neutralise free radicals, which limits damage to cells and genetic material.

Remember · Antioxidants are free radical scavengers. Free radicals arise naturally during metabolism and damage DNA, proteins and lipids. Fruits and vegetables supply dietary antioxidants such as vitamins C and E.

Question: UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) 2011, General Studies Paper I. Explanation: Minimalist IAS, checked 25 Oct 2026 (how we verify). · Report an error