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[[File:L-ascorbic-acid-3D-balls.png|thumb|right|''The structure of the antioxidant vitamin ascorbic acid (vitamin C).'']]
An '''antioxidant''' is a molecule that inhibits the oxidation of other molecules. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals, leading to chain reactions that may damage cells. Antioxidants such as thiols or ascorbic acid (vitamin C) terminate these chain reactions. The term "antioxidant" is mainly used for two different groups of substances: industrial chemicals which are added to products to prevent oxidation, and natural chemicals found in foods and body tissue which are said to have beneficial health effects.
