What Is Oxidative Stress and How Can You Fight It?

Accelerated skin ageing, chronic inflammation, cell damage or the development of conditions affecting the kidneys, cardiovascular system or nervous system are some of the consequences of oxidative stress. In this article, we explain why it appears in the body, how it shows up and how to fight it. Keep reading!

What is oxidative stress?

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between free radicals (unstable molecules that damage cells) and antioxidants (substances that neutralise those free radicals).

Our body produces free radicals as part of natural processes, such as breathing or generating energy, among others. However, when their production exceeds the body’s ability to neutralise them, what we call oxidative stress occurs.

This imbalance can cause cell damage, affect DNA, proteins and lipids or accelerate ageing.

Oxidative stress and free radicals are closely linked: the greater the exposure to factors that increase free radical production, the greater the risk of oxidative damage.

And although our body has natural antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione, which help counteract these effects, in many cases these antioxidant defences are not enough, which is why it can be necessary to reinforce them through diet or supplements.

Causes of oxidative stress

Environmental pollution and excessive sun exposure, stress, not following healthy lifestyle habits such as a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, smoking or drinking alcohol, lack of sleep or intense physical exercise without adequate recovery are all factors that may lie behind oxidative stress.

Most common symptoms of oxidative stress

On the other hand, although it does not always show up in an obvious way, there are symptoms of oxidative stress that can act as warning signs:

• Persistent tiredness or lack of energy.

• Dull skin, premature ageing or the early appearance of wrinkles.
• Muscle or joint pain.
• Problems with concentration or memory.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Lowered defences or greater susceptibility to infections.

Supplements to help fight stress:

Alongside healthy habits, drinking at least 2 litres of water a day, sleeping around 7 to 8 hours a night and avoiding stressful situations, there are supplements that can help strengthen your defences against oxidative damage and improve your overall wellbeing. Our recommendation:

Pure Encapsulations Anti-Stress: this supplement is formulated with natural ingredients that help reduce the impact of psychological and physical stress, protecting the body against oxidative damage. The combination of vitamins, minerals and plant extracts in Pure Encapsulations Anti-Stress supports nervous system function and mental balance, helping to break the cycle of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Antioxidant: this collagen supplement with antioxidants is ideal for anyone looking to care for their skin from within. Its formula, rich in collagen peptides, hyaluronic acid and vitamin C, contributes to cell regeneration and fights the signs of ageing caused by oxidative stress. In addition, Vital Proteins Beauty Collagen Antioxidant promotes firmer, brighter and healthier-looking skin.

These supplements with collagen, combined with a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, can be great allies in restoring balance and protecting your cells against oxidative damage.

Although oxidative stress is a natural process in the body, when it gets out of control it can affect our health and accelerate ageing. Understanding what oxidative stress is, its causes and how to fight it will help you take preventive steps to keep your body and mind in balance.