Oxidative Stress in Orlando

Oxidative Stress Overview

Overview: Oxidative stress is linked to various health conditions, including aging, cancer, cardiovascular and neurological diseases, and autoimmune disorders. Factors contributing to oxidative stress include obesity, poor diet, smoking, alcohol use, and environmental toxins.

Testing: Oxidative stress tests assess indicators of cellular damage and antioxidant levels. Key markers include 8-OHdG for DNA damage and antioxidants like glutathione. Tests such as the Cellular Nutrition Assay and DNA Oxidative Damage offer insights into the balance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body.

Mechanism: Oxidative stress occurs when there is an excess of free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells—compared to available antioxidants. Antioxidants stabilize free radicals by donating electrons, preventing cellular damage. Natural antioxidants include glutathione and alpha-lipoic acid, while dietary sources include:

• Carotenoids: Found in fruits and vegetables like cantaloupe and carrots.
• Vitamin E: Present in avocados and almonds.
• Vitamin C: Available in broccoli, strawberries, and brussels sprouts.
• Phenolic Compounds: Found in grapes and berries.
• Astaxanthin: Sourced from krill and salmon.

Symptoms of Oxidative Stress: Patients may experience a range of symptoms, including:

• Confusion
• Memory changes
• Muscle and joint pain
• Fatigue
• Vision changes
• Wrinkles and gray hair
• Headaches
• Increased sensitivity to noise
• Greater susceptibility to infections

What do Oxidative Stress Tests measure?

Oxidative Stress Tests analyze blood and urine samples for the presence of indicators of free radicals, antioxidants, and their balance in the body. A variety of tests are available through Anchor Medical Center including examples such as:

Evaluating Oxidative Stress

To assess a patient’s health regarding oxidative stress, consider:

• Physical Assessment: Check for signs of oxidative stress or related health issues.
• Health History: Review the patient’s medical background and lifestyle factors.
• Symptom Checklist: Gather current symptoms to correlate with test results.

Next Steps

Based on findings, further investigations might include:

• Gut Microbiome Assessment: Check the gut’s health, as it affects oxidative stress.
• Disease Testing: Screen for diseases linked to oxidative stress, like heart disease or diabetes.
• Genetic Exploration: Look into any genetic factors that could contribute to oxidative stress.

This holistic approach helps identify and manage potential health issues effectively.

Treatment Plans for Oxidative Stress

Understanding the body’s oxidative stress levels can guide proactive measures to reduce health risks. Here are some effective treatment strategies:

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes:
   • Exercise Regularly: Incorporate physical activity into daily routines.
   • Prioritize Sleep: Aim for adequate, restful sleep.
   • Reduce Stress: Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques.
   • Avoid Harmful Substances: Eliminate alcohol and quit smoking.
   • Eat Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Focus on whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds instead of synthetic supplements.
2. Environmental Assessment:
   • Check for exposure to toxins, pollution, and heavy metals that could contribute to oxidative stress.
3. Oral Health Care:
   • Maintain good oral hygiene, as oral infections are linked to oxidative stress and diseases like cardiovascular and neurodegenerative conditions.

These strategies can help protect the body and reduce the risk of inflammatory and chronic health issues.

References

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7911941/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5551541/#:~:text=Oxidative%20stress%20is%20a%20phenomenon,to%20detoxify%20these%20reactive%20products.
3. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/oxidative-stress
4. https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/understanding-antioxidants#:~:text=Because%20free%20radicals%20are%20so,as%20vitamins%20C%2