Understanding Oxidative Stress: Causes, Consequences and Natural Solutions
Oxidative stress is a term that is often mentioned in the field of health and wellness. But what exactly is oxidative stress? How does it impact our body and what are the best ways to counter it? This article offers you a detailed dive into this phenomenon, its origins, its effects and the natural solutions to control it.
What is Oxidative Stress?
Oxidative stress (or oxidative stress) refers to an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them using antioxidants . Unlike emotional stress, which is linked to psychological tensions, oxidative stress is an internal chemical process.
Free Radicals: The Invisible Aggressors
Free radicals are unstable molecules generated mainly by the oxygen we inhale daily. These reactive molecules can damage various cellular components such as proteins , lipids , sugars , DNA , and cell membranes. Think of your cells as metals exposed to the open air: they gradually "rust" under the effect of free radicals.
The Crucial Role of Antioxidants
Fortunately, our body has defense mechanisms thanks to antioxidants, substances capable of neutralizing free radicals. When this balance is maintained, oxidative stress remains under control. However, excessive production of free radicals can overwhelm these defenses, leading to harmful oxidative stress.
Causes of Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress can be triggered by various environmental and lifestyle factors:
- Tobacco and Alcohol : Cigarette and alcohol consumption significantly increase the production of free radicals.
- Pollution and UV Rays : Exposure to air pollutants and ultraviolet rays accelerates oxidative stress.
- Medications and Drugs : Certain medications and psychoactive substances can disrupt oxidative balance.
- Diet Low in Antioxidants : A diet deficient in fruits, vegetables and other sources of antioxidants promotes the accumulation of free radicals.
- Intense Physical Activity or Sedentary Lifestyle : Excessive exercise or, conversely, a total lack of physical activity can unbalance the body's antioxidant system.
- Emotional Stress : Chronic psychological stress can also contribute to the increase in free radicals.
Consequences of oxidative stress
The effects of oxidation on the body
Oxidative stress is the main cause of premature aging, attacking cells. Indeed, tissues and organs age prematurely when antioxidant defenses are weakened and the body accumulates oxidized products.
Oxidative stress is the cause of certain diseases (Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease) due to cellular degeneration. Cells are denatured following an accumulation of damage that leads to their dysfunction.
Finally, other pathologies can generate oxidative stress such as chronic inflammatory diseases of the digestive system, cardiovascular diseases (hypertension, etc.), bronchopulmonary diseases, chronic viral diseases, diabetes or even certain cancers.
The Consequences of Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress plays a central role in aging and the development of many chronic diseases.
Premature Aging
The continuous attack of free radicals causes accelerated cellular deterioration , leading to premature aging of tissues and organs. On the skin, this manifests itself in the appearance of wrinkles , fine lines and a loss of elasticity due to the decrease in the production of collagen and elastin.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are linked to cellular degeneration caused by oxidative stress. The accumulation of oxidative damage in the brain contributes to the progressive deterioration of cognitive and motor functions.
Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes
Oxidative stress is also implicated in the development of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis, as well as type 2 diabetes . Oxidative damage to blood vessel endothelial cells promotes inflammation and stiffening of the arteries.
Cancers and Chronic Diseases
Some cancers and chronic inflammatory diseases, particularly those of the digestive and respiratory tracts, are exacerbated by high oxidative stress. Cells damaged by free radicals can acquire genetic mutations leading to uncontrolled cell growth.
Solutions to combat oxidative stress
Adopt a Diet Rich in Antioxidants
Incorporating foods rich in antioxidants into your daily diet is essential. Some of the most effective include:
- Fruits and Vegetables : Berries, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes.
- Nuts and Seeds : Walnuts, almonds, chia seeds.
- Teas and Infusions : Green tea, black tea, chamomile infusions.
- Spices : Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
- Regular and Moderate Exercise : Promotes blood circulation and strengthens natural antioxidant defenses.
- Stress Management : Relaxation techniques, meditation, yoga to reduce emotional stress .
- Avoid Toxins : Reduce tobacco use, limit alcohol and avoid excessive exposure to pollutants.
UV Protection
Use adequate sun protection to prevent oxidative damage caused by UV rays, which are particularly aggressive for the skin.
Get enough sleep to counteract oxidative stress
A sleep of sufficient quality and quantity helps promote the antioxidant process and thus protects against oxidative stress. It is therefore important to have restful sleep to limit the effects of oxidative stress.
To sleep better and benefit from quality sleep, food supplements are a valuable help. Délicure Sleep gummies contain melatonin (sleep hormone), vitamins (B5 and B6) and plants known for sleep (lime blossom, passion flower and poppy).
A natural molecule also seems ideal for combating stress: CBD. Délicure has created delicious sugar-free CBD candies , an innovative and delicious way to relax, as well as CBD oils based on organic avocado and sweet almond oil.
