Wissenswertes

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

The term "oxidative stress" is being used more and more frequently . But what exactly is it? Oxidative stress occurs when there is an excessively high level of free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable oxygen compounds that are missing an electron. During reactions with other compounds, a process known as oxidation, the missing electron is removed, resulting in the formation of more free radicals.

What is oxidative stress?

Free radicals only become harmful and aggressive above a certain concentration. The human body even produces them in low concentrations , as they are important for various processes such as immune responses, cellular respiration, and protection against pathogens. In high quantities, however, oxidation causes structural damage to a wide variety of compounds, including...

  • Proteins,
  • Lipids
  • Carbohydrates and

  • DNA.

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

Oxidative stress and its causes

Several factors promote the formation of free radicals. These include radiation, heat, and UV light . Oxidative stress ultimately arises from the following aspects:

  • Pollutants such as exhaust fumes
  • Environmental toxins such as pesticides
  • certain medications such as antibiotics
  • Alcohol and drug use
  • Smoke
  • Depression
  • aging processes
  • stress
  • excessive competitive sport
  • Inflammation
  • Diseases such as cancer

  • Operations

Oxidative stress and symptoms

Oxidative stress affects both women and men. The symptoms differ. One example is an accelerated aging process, as detoxification and regeneration of body cells can be impaired by free radicals. The following symptoms are considered typical warning signs :

  • Performance decline
  • Energy shortage
  • fatigue
  • exhaustion
  • chronic infections
  • increased susceptibility to infection
  • impaired wound healing
  • High blood pressure
  • Skin aging

  • Premature formation of grey hair

Avoidance of oxidative stress

To defend themselves, biological systems developed antioxidant systems over the course of evolution. Antioxidants are the counterpart to free radicals. They deactivate reactive oxygen compounds, thus preventing oxidation. While the body does produce these so-called free radical scavengers , it does not do so in sufficient quantities. Therefore, it is important to consume enough antioxidants through food . Plant-based foods such as fresh vegetables and fruits, 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

Stressor

In case of a nutrient deficiency, for example due to food intolerances, you can use dietary supplements . The nutrients mentioned are primarily found in the following of our dietary supplements:

INFO: A nutrient analysis of the blood serum provides information about possible nutrient deficiencies that can be compensated for with selected nutrients.

More tips against oxidative stress

A healthy and balanced diet is essential when it comes to avoiding oxidative stress. Other aspects that help create a balance between antioxidants and free radicals include:

  • Exercise in moderation
  • Stress reduction
  • Liver detoxification

  • No alcohol, drug, or nicotine consumption

INFO: Mental health plays an important role in combating oxidative stress, as 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: its origins, significance, and what helps against it.
Oxidative stress

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