Oxidative stress is an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body that can lead to cell and tissue damage.
Evidence suggests that long-term oxidative stress contributes to the development of a range of chronic conditions. Such conditions include cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
In this article, we explore what oxidative stress is, how it affects the body, and how to reduce it.
Oxidative stress can occur when the body has an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants.
The body’s cells produce free radicals during normal metabolic processes. However, cells also produce antioxidants that neutralize them. Typically, the body is able to maintain a balance between antioxidants and free radicals.
The body’s natural immune response can also trigger oxidative stress temporarily. This type of oxidative stress causes mild inflammation that goes away after the immune system fights off an infection or repairs an injury.
Uncontrolled oxidative stress can accelerate the aging process and may contribute to the development of a number of conditions.
What are free radicals?
Free radicals, including reactive oxygen species, are molecules with one or more unpaired electrons. Cells contain small structures called mitochondria, which work to generate energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Mitochondria combine oxygen and glucose to produce carbon dioxide, water, and ATP. Free radicals arise as byproducts of this metabolic process.
What are antioxidants?
Antioxidants are substances that neutralize or remove free radicals by donating an electron. The neutralizing effect of antioxidants helps protect the body from oxidative stress. Examples of antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E.
One mechanism by which oxidative stress can harm the body is through chronic inflammation and subsequent cell damage.
During oxidative stress, excess free radicals can also damage structures inside brain, and also alters essential proteins, such as amyloid-beta peptides. According to one
Oxidative stress may play a role in the development of a range of conditions, including:
- cancer
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- diabetes
- cardiovascular conditions such as high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, and stroke
- inflammatory disorders
- chronic fatigue syndrome
- asthma
- male infertility
Factors that may increase a person’s risk of long-term oxidative stress include:
- obesity
- diets high in fat, sugar, and processed foods
- exposure to radiation
- smoking cigarettes or other tobacco products
- alcohol consumption
- pollution
- exposure to pesticides or industrial chemicals
It is important to remember that the body requires both free radicals and antioxidants. Having too many or too few of either may lead to health problems.
Lifestyle and dietary measures that may help reduce oxidative stress in the body include:
- eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
- limiting intake of processed foods, particularly those high in sugars and fats
- exercising regularly
- quitting smoking
- reducing stress
- avoiding or reducing exposure to pollution and harsh chemicals
- maintaining a healthy body weight
Oxidative stress is a state that occurs when there is an excess of free radicals in the body’s cells. The body produces free radicals during normal metabolic processes.
Oxidative stress can damage cells, proteins, and DNA, contributing to aging. It may also play a role in the development of a range of health conditions, including diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
The body naturally produces antioxidants to counteract these free radicals. A person’s diet is also an important source of antioxidants.
Making certain lifestyle and dietary changes may help reduce oxidative stress. These may include maintaining a healthy body weight, regularly exercising, and eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
