Oxidative stress and free radicals: Here's what you can do about it!

We are hearing about oxidative stress more and more often. But what exactly is it? Oxidative stress occurs when there is too high a proportion of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are understood to be unstable oxygen compounds that are missing an electron. During reactions with other compounds, so-called oxidation, this missing particle is torn away, which creates further free radicals.

What is oxidative stress?

Free radicals are only harmful and aggressive above a certain concentration. The human body even produces them itself in low concentrations, as they are important for various processes, such as immune responses, cellular respiration, and protection against pathogens. In large amounts, oxidation structurally damages a multitude of compounds, including

• proteins,
• lipids,
• carbohydrates, and

• DNA.

If this state persists over a longer period, the risk of illnesses such as cardiovascular or cancer diseases can increase. Oxidative stress is also suspected of attacking the central nervous system and causing diseases such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, or strokes.

Oxidative stress and causes

Various factors promote the formation of free radicals. These include radiation, heat, or UV light. Ultimately, oxidative stress is caused by the following aspects:

• Pollutants such as exhaust fumes
• Environmental toxins such as pesticides
• Certain medications such as antibiotics
• Alcohol and drug consumption
• Smoking
• Depression
• Aging processes
• Stress
• Excessive high-performance sports
• Inflammation
• Diseases such as cancer

• Surgeries

Oxidative stress and symptoms

Oxidative stress affects both women and men. The symptoms vary. Examples include an accelerated aging process, as the detoxification and regeneration of body cells can be impaired by free radicals. The following ailments are considered typical warning signs:

• Drop in performance
• Lack of energy
• Fatigue
• Exhaustion
• Chronic infections
• Increased susceptibility to infection
• Impaired wound healing
• High blood pressure
• Skin aging

• Premature graying of hair
  

Avoiding oxidative stress

To defend themselves, biological systems have developed antioxidant systems over the course of evolution. Antioxidants are the counterpart to free radicals. They deactivate reactive oxygen compounds, thereby preventing oxidation. Such so-called radical scavengers are produced by the body itself, but not in sufficient quantities. For this reason, it is important to obtain sufficient amounts of antioxidants through food. Plant-based foods such as fresh vegetables and fruit as well as nuts and seeds are particularly suitable. They contain

• secondary plant compounds such as beta-carotene or quercetin
• selenium
• vitamin E
• vitamin C

• zinc

If a nutrient deficiency is identified, it may make sense to supplement the supply of selected nutrients in a targeted manner.

Our BalanceFit is a perfect fit, combining selected vitamins, minerals, and plant-based substances such as vitamin C, zinc, selenium, OPC, and quercetin. Vitamin C, zinc, and selenium help to protect cells from oxidative stress. BalanceFit is vegan and suitable for a low-histamine, low-fructose, gluten-free, and lactose-free diet.

INFO: A nutrient analysis can help to identify potential nutrient deficiencies and to specifically adapt further supplementation accordingly.

Further tips against oxidative stress

A healthy and balanced diet is the be-all and end-all when it comes to avoiding oxidative stress. Other aspects that help to create a balance between antioxidants and free radicals are

• Sports in healthy moderation
• Stress reduction
• Liver detoxification

• No consumption of alcohol, drugs, or nicotine

INFO: Mental health plays an important role in the fight against oxidative stress, because mental illnesses such as depression promote the formation of free radicals. Relaxation and breathing exercises as well as meditation can be beneficial.

Sources

Biochemistry of oxidative stress
Oxidative stress: origin, significance, and what helps against it
Oxidative stress