What Is Oxidative Stress

To answer what is oxidative stress, you first have to know that cells in the body produce free radicals as a part of normal metabolism, and they also produce antioxidants to counteract them. The body typically maintains a balance between the two.[1]

Oxidative stress is a condition in which the body’s antioxidant defences are overwhelmed by the production of free radicals, including reactive oxygen species (ROS). In simple terms, oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals and the body’s ability to neutralise them with antioxidants.[2]

As oxidative stress works at the cellular and molecular level, it can be difficult to observe exact symptoms. However, oxidative stress has been associated with some health concerns.

• Fatigue. Some studies have found links between the presence of oxidative stress and forms of chronic fatigue.[4]
• Muscle soreness and cramps. Oxidative stress and its contributing factors may be related to muscle wasting, which potentially leads to muscle soreness and pain.[5]
• Cognitive decline. There are associations between oxidative stress and cognitive impairment, particularly during ageing and age-related neurological diseases.[6]

Oxidative stress has been linked to a variety of chronic health conditions such as diabetes, atherosclerosis, inflammatory conditions, high blood pressure, heart disease, neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, and cancer.[7]

For anyone wondering what is oxidative stress and how to minimise its effects, one way to manage oxidative stress is through lifestyle changes and dietary modifications. Eating a variety of antioxidant-rich foods can help reduce the number of free radicals in the body. Foods high in antioxidants include fruits and vegetables, dark chocolate, and nuts.[8]

Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fibre, rich in fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein can also help reduce inflammation.[9] Making sure you get enough sleep is also important for managing oxidative stress, as fatigue can increase inflammation levels.[10]

In addition to dietary changes, regular exercise can help reduce oxidative stress by increasing circulation and oxygen delivery to tissues.[11] Exercise also helps the body produce more antioxidants, which can help fight off free radicals. 

Other lifestyle changes that can help manage oxidative stress in the body include finding out what causes stress to avoid it, how to treat depression if you have it, putting your emotional health and wellbeing, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol intake, and getting enough exposure to natural sunlight.[12]

For more information on how you can manage oxidative stress and inflammation, you can get in touch with us at Mosh. Just fill out a quick questionnaire on our website with your basic personal information, medical information, and your immediate concerns.

You can expect a response from your Mosh doctor as soon as possible, and if necessary, they will also send over a personalised treatment plan for you. If you wish to pursue the treatment plan, simply let your doctor know or send them a message to ask any additional questions you may have.

There are several supplements that may help to reduce oxidative stress and protect against the damage caused by reactive oxygen species. These include the following:

1. Vitamin C. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help to neutralise ROS and protect cells from damage.[13]
2. Vitamin E. Vitamin E is another antioxidant that can help to protect cells from damage caused by ROS.[14]
3. Melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that has antioxidant properties and can help to protect cells from damage caused by ROS.[15]

It is important to note that large doses of antioxidants may interact with some medications, and it is always best to consult with your Mosh doctor about any questions you may have regarding what is oxidative stress and how to manage it before starting any supplement regimen.

If your doctor prescribes any medication or supplements as part of your treatment plan, you can expect to receive them on your doorstep within four to seven working days of your payment. Refills will be provided as necessary for your convenience. 

At Mosh, we have a dedicated team of doctors with a special interest in men’s health. Our team has helped thousands of Australian men with a variety of issues, such as what is stigma in mental health, what is clinical depression, what helps hair growth, how to use chia seeds to lose weight, what is oxidative stress, and more.

All of our doctors are registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and will approach your concerns with compassion and understanding.

We understand that seeking medical help can be daunting, which is why we strive to make it as accessible and normal as possible. We offer a variety of ways to connect with us, including email, call, support forms, and chat. 

At Mosh, we take pride in providing healthcare services to tens of thousands of people. Trust us with your healthcare needs, and let us help you achieve your health goals as you learn more about what is oxidative stress.

Get in touch with us today.