Recognizing The Causes And Effects Of Oxidative Stress That Damages Body Cells

Illustration of causes and effects of oxidative stress (Freepik/Cookie Studio)

JAKARTA – Oxidative stress, when experienced long term, contributes to the development of chronic conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. The reason is, oxidative stress causes free radicals and antioxidants in the body to be out of balance. The effect causes damage to cells and body tissues.

During the metabolic process, the body produces free radicals. It also produces antioxidants to neutralize these free radicals. So the balance between antioxidants and free radicals determines overall health. Oxidative stress is influenced by several factors, including diet, lifestyle, certain health conditions, environmental factors such as pollution and radiation.

Reported by Medical News Today, the natural immune response when fighting infection also causes inflammation or a type of oxidative stress. When fighting infection, oxidative stress is temporary. Once healed, the immune system will repair cells or repair injuries. But if oxidative stress is not controlled, the aging process will occur more quickly.

Free radicals released during the metabolic process include superoxide, hydroxyl radicals, and nitric oxide radicals. Substances from outside also trigger the body to develop free radicals, such as cigarette smoke, pesticides, and ozone.

While antioxidants are substances that neutralize or eliminate free radicals by throwing electrons. The antioxidant effect is neutral, and the so-called antioxidants include vitamins A, C, and E. The antioxidants created by cells are called glutathione.

Therefore, diet is also needed to get enough antioxidants for the body. Foods that contain antioxidants include vegetables and fruits that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Illustration of causes and effects of oxidative stress (iStockphoto)

Not all oxidative stress is harmful. For example, oxidative stress due to physical activity, because it can contribute to regulatory and beneficial effects on the body. In a 2015 study, scientists proved that oxidative stress can temporarily limit the spread of melanoma cancer cells in mice.

But long-term oxidative stress can damage the body's cells, proteins, and DNA. This type of stress also causes inflammation which in turn produces more free radicals. Chronic inflammation can also lead to several conditions, including arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

Oxidative stress also affects the brain. In a 2018 study, the brain absorbs 20 total oxygen in the body. Brain cells use it for intensive metabolic activity in generating free radicals. These free radicals help brain cell growth, neuroplasticity, and cognitive function. But when subjected to oxidative stress, free radicals are more able to damage structures in brain cells, potentially increasing the risk of Parkinson's disease.

To prevent experiencing oxidative stress, improving a healthier lifestyle is the first step. Such as by changing the diet to be more balanced and richer in fruits and vegetables. Plus regular exercise also helps build a healthy life. In addition, quit smoking, manage stress, avoid exposure to pollution, and maintain a healthy weight.