Unobtrusive Health Hazard

Managing Oxidative Stress: Strategies and Impacts

Abstract

Oxidative stress is a biological mechanism triggered by an imbalance between the biosynthesis and accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a biological system. Normally, ROS are produced as byproducts of oxygen metabolism and fulfill various physiological roles such as cell signaling. However, environmental stressors like UV radiation, ionizing radiation, pollutants, heavy metals, and xenobiotics can also lead to increased ROS production. Common types of ROS include superoxide radicals (O2−), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), hydroxyl radicals (•OH), and singlet oxygen (1O2), which are generated during various metabolic pathways. Key cellular processes such as protein phosphorylation, activation of transcriptional factors, apoptosis, immunity, and differentiation depend on maintaining appropriate levels of ROS within cells.

Under conditions of excessive ROS production, which can occur during both normal physiological processes and pathological conditions like inflammation, ischemia, and aging, ROS can damage important cellular components such as proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. This production is primarily mitochondrial but can also result from enzymatic activities involved in the respiratory chain, prostaglandin synthesis, phagocytosis, and the cytochrome P450 system. Both immune system activation and environmental factors contribute to endogenous and exogenous free radical production.

The signs of oxidative stress include fatigue, memory loss, muscle or joint pain, the appearance of wrinkles and grey hair, decreased eyesight, headaches, increased sensitivity to noise, and a heightened susceptibility to infections. To reduce oxidative stress, it is advised to avoid sugar and processed foods while balancing blood sugar levels, prevent infections, incorporate daily stress reduction practices, avoid toxins, and promote the production of antioxidants through diet and herbal supplements that are rich in antioxidants.