Definition

Oxidative stress occurs when there's an imbalance between free radical production and antioxidant defenses, leading to cellular damage. Free radicals are generated by normal metabolism, but excessive production from inflammation, toxins, poor diet, stress, and smoking overwhelms antioxidant systems, damaging DNA, proteins, and lipids.

Why It Matters

Oxidative stress drives aging, chronic inflammation, and disease development—including cardiovascular disease, cancer, neurodegeneration, diabetes, and autoimmunity. Reducing oxidative stress through antioxidant-rich nutrition, stress management, exercise, and targeted supplements protects cellular health and prevents chronic disease.

Related Conditions

Cardiovascular Disease Diabetes Pre Diabetes Autoimmunity Cognitive Decline Aging

Related Modalities

Clinical Nutrition Lifestyle Medicine Nutraceuticals Functional Lab Testing

Frequently Asked Questions

Key strategies include eating antioxidant-rich foods (berries, dark leafy greens, nuts), regular moderate exercise, managing chronic stress, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, reducing toxic exposures, optimizing sleep, maintaining healthy weight, and targeted antioxidant supplementation when needed.

Yes, functional lab tests can measure oxidative stress markers including 8-OHdG (DNA damage), lipid peroxides, oxidized LDL cholesterol, and antioxidant status (glutathione, vitamin C, vitamin E). These tests help assess oxidative burden and guide targeted interventions.