What are free radicals associated with?

Free radicals are associated with cellular damage because they are unstable molecules that can react with other cellular structures, such as DNA, lipids, and proteins. This reactivity can lead to oxidative stress, where the balance between free radicals and antioxidants is disrupted, resulting in harm to cell components. Over time, this cellular damage can contribute to various health conditions, including aging, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxidants in the body work to neutralize free radicals, helping to mitigate their damaging effects, but when there's an excess of free radicals, the potential for cellular damage significantly increases.

The other options imply beneficial effects that do not align with the known impact of free radicals on health. Improved cellular function, enhanced nutrient absorption, and increased muscle recovery all suggest positive physiological processes, which free radicals do not promote. Instead, understanding that free radicals are a byproduct of metabolic processes and can lead to harm is essential for recognizing their role in health and disease.