6. Theoretically, antioxidants cannot behave as such
It is argued that antioxidants cannot act faster with radicals than endogenous (bio-)molecules, and are therefore inactive.
However, site-specific scavenging and indirect activity (such as anti-inflammatory activity) can occur, even with extremely reactive hydroxyl radicals, the review said.
“Without antioxidants, life in an aerobic environment would be impossible. Antioxidants do act. Their action has been established by determining their effect on biomarkers reflecting oxidative damage.”