Oxidative stress is an extremely interesting subject that is linked to many diseases including diabetes and complications of diabetes.
Keep reading for a simple summary of everything you need to know about oxidative stress!
What is it?
Oxidative stress is defined by the balance of antioxidants and free radical particles in the body.
Free radicals have a uneven number of electrons and require antioxidants to ‘neutralise’ them.
Therefore, we must consume antioxidant rich foods in order to help the body clear free radicals.
A point to note – we cannot completely stop the formation of these particles. Free radical production is part of many processes in the body, including detoxification in the liver. – It is all about balance!
How does it impact the body?
When we do not have enough antioxidants in the body, free radicals begin to cause damage. This can contribute to the beginning of diseases in the body.
It can be linked to:
- Diabetes and complications of diabetes
- Atherosclerosis (plaque formation in blood vessels)
- Cardiovascular disease
- High blood pressure
- Cancer
- Parkinsons and Alzheimers
How to minimise it
- Quit smoking
- Decrease alcohol intake
- Get antioxidants in your diet! – fresh fruit and vegetables are high in antioxidants. Ensure you are consuming around 7 portions a day. Also drink herbal teas such as green tea which contains lots of antioxidants!
- Prioritise 7-9 hours of sleep a night – the sleep hormone melatonin also acts as an antioxidant.
- Wear PPE when using cleaning chemicals – wear gloves, open a window and even wear a mask.
- Make exercise a part of your routine – exercise is fantastic for all aspects of health, so make it a priority (even if you can only fit 20 minutes in a day!)
Thank you for reading Oxidative Stress 101, I hope you found this interesting! Be sure to subscribe and follow me on Instagram!
If you liked this post, be sure to check out Metabolic syndrome 101! and Diabulimia 101!