What are antioxidants primarily known for?

Antioxidants are primarily known for their role in protecting cells from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress in the body, leading to cellular damage and are implicated in various diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Antioxidants neutralize these free radicals, thereby preventing or reducing the damage they can cause to cell structures, including DNA, proteins, and lipids. This protective effect is crucial for maintaining overall health and longevity.

The other options, while they may refer to important aspects of health and wellness, do not accurately capture the primary function of antioxidants. For instance, boosting energy levels, improving sleep quality, and enhancing memory retention pertain to different physiological processes and are influenced by various nutrients and lifestyle factors rather than a direct function of antioxidants. Therefore, the significance of antioxidants lies primarily in their capacity to safeguard cellular integrity against oxidative damage.