Oxidative stress is what happens when our cells are attacked by free radicals. In excess, these unstable molecules overwhelm our defenses, damaging the body. Here we take a look at their sources and consequences, and the ways in which we can help keep them under control.
Cells are the site of one of the body’srespiration processes: oxygen is used by cells to ensure they, and the body as a whole, function properly. This cellular respiration occurs in the mitochondria, the cells’ powerhouses.
When mitochondria use oxygen in cellular respiration, changes occur in the surrounding molecules. They lose an electron, and as a result, become unstable molecules called free radicals.
These unpaired electrons frantically try to restore their stability by stealing an electron from a neighbouring molecule, which in turn tries to do the same. This quickly results in a chain reaction as the body finds itself unable to withstand this multitude of unstable particles. (1)
It’s when free radicals are generated by external factors that the body becomes overwhelmed. And there are many such factors:
These factors are responsible for excessive circulation of energy in cells which causes, or accelerates, the production of free radicals. The excesses of modern lifestyles are thus often cited as a cause of oxidative stress (2).
Oxidative stress is involved in a number of mechanisms that are damaging to health. As mentioned, free radicals try to restore their stability by attacking and stealing electrons from surrounding molecules.
These attacks result in a widespread cascade of denaturation - of DNA, proteins and lipids: tissues become damaged and no longer function properly. Chain reactions therefore lead to defective functioning of the body in general. For that reason, oxidative stress is recognized as one of the primary mechanisms of aging (3).
While we may be more aware of the visible effects, such as damage to the health and elasticity of our skin, free radicals also produce unseen consequences within the body which may worsen. The nervous system is one such example, with deteriorations in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. (4)
The cardiovascular system is also a victim: in excess, free radicals affect the arteries, veins, heart … Oxidative stress causes structural and functional damage and can lead to atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease … (5)
Most of the time, free radicals are discussed in terms of the damage they do to the body. However, it’s important to understand that they are also necessary for the immune system. This has been observed in the case of viral infections in particular (6). Free radicals also help speed up the healing of wounds … (7). A paradox that’s often overlooked!
The body is naturally equipped with an antioxidant function. Certain compounds are able to neutralize free radicals and restrict the chain reaction. Glutathione, enzymes such as peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase, as well as vitamins C and E are all antioxidants naturally present in the body.
To help combat oxidative stress, there are several simple habits you can adopt. Give up smoking, and reduce your alcohol consumption and exposure to the sun as much as possible.
In addition, eat a balanced diet high in antioxidants. For this, you need to prioritise fruits and vegetables in general, as well as aromatic herbs and spices , ‘good’ fats (avocados, dried fruit, vegetable oils, oily fish…), and algae… Limit your intake of animal fats (meat, charcuterie, dairy foods) and products with added sugar. These are the principles of an antioxidant diet.
Concentrated dietary supplements can also provide the body with significant antioxidant power. Polyphenols, glutathione, carnosine, ergothioneine... Many molecules naturally present in the body can be boosted through supplementation to give you extra ammunition in the fight against free radicals!
If you’re over – or fast-approaching – 70 years of age, or want some advice for loved ones in this age group, this article on ‘senior’ supplements is for you.
The polyphenol content of fruits and vegetables is one of the main reasons these foods are so good for our health. But which contain the most? And can you guess which one takes the no. 1 spot?
Glycation is a silent but powerful chemical reaction that plays a key role in the aging process. Find out exactly what’s involved in this ‘spontaneous caramelisation’ of the body, and how to curb it.
Do you want to delay the negative effects of aging and stay fit and healthy for as long as possible, to get the most out of life and time spent with loved ones? Discover senolytics, the ultimate weapon for fighting the aging process.
A superfruit used for more than 2000 years in traditional Chinese medicine, the goji berry has become increasingly popular in the West because of its high content of vitamins and antioxidants. Discover its various benefits.
Calorie restriction consists of reducing your food intake, compensating for any potential deficiencies by taking supplements. Aside from its slimming effects, calorie restriction is now being studied primarily for its ability to prolong life expectancy.
Senolytics: a revolutionary formula for destroying the senescent cells responsible for aging
$69.00Stop, rewind! A world first! This NAD+ booster could truly reverse aging!
$58.00Anti-aging dragonhead extract that mimics the effects of calorie restriction
$16.80Exceptional advance in anti-aging ! Take advantage of our launch offer on the Astragaloside IV + Resveratrol Synergy "Longevity pack -->
$98.00
The wish list lets you save items you're interested in so you can add them to your cart easily the next time you visit the site.
You need to be registered to use this service.
