Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress is an important biological process related to the balance between free radicals and the body’s antioxidant mechanisms. When this balance is disturbed, a state arises that can adversely affect cells, tissues and the overall function of the human body.

In recent years, oxidative stress has been the subject of extensive scientific research, as it appears to be linked to the onset of many chronic diseases and to the ageing process. The ability to measure oxidative stress through specialised laboratory tests provides valuable information about the state of one’s health and contributes to preventive screening.

In a modern diagnostic centre, the oxidative stress test is performed with reliable methods and modern laboratory equipment, providing useful data for assessing the body’s biochemical balance.

Oxidative stress arises when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to neutralise them through its antioxidant mechanisms.

Free radicals are unstable molecules produced naturally in the body during various metabolic processes. When produced in excessive amounts, however, they can damage important cellular structures.

The main biological structures affected by oxidative damage are:

• the DNA of the cells
• the cell membranes
• proteins
• enzymes
• lipids

Damage to these structures can affect the normal function of the cells and contribute to the development of various diseases.

For this reason, measuring the markers of oxidative stress has taken on an important role in modern preventive health screening.

Free radicals are produced naturally in the body during energy production in the cells. This is a natural process that is part of cellular metabolism.

Their production, however, can increase significantly because of various factors related to lifestyle and the environment.

The main factors that contribute to an increase in free radicals include:

• smoking
• air pollution
• excessive alcohol consumption
• a diet rich in processed foods
• excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation
• chronic psychological stress
• lack of physical activity
• obesity

When these factors combine, the body may struggle to maintain the necessary balance between free radicals and antioxidants.

To protect itself from the harmful effects of free radicals, the body has a natural defence system made up of antioxidant mechanisms.

Antioxidants are substances that can neutralise free radicals and limit oxidative damage to the cells.

Some of the most important antioxidants are:

• vitamin C
• vitamin E
• selenium
• glutathione
• carotenoids
• polyphenols

These substances are found mainly in plant foods, such as fruit, vegetables, nuts and whole grains.

Properly functioning antioxidant mechanisms are essential for maintaining cellular health and protecting the body from oxidative damage.

The scientific community has linked increased oxidative stress to the development or worsening of many chronic diseases.

These include:

Cardiovascular disease

Oxidative stress can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases by affecting the function of the blood vessels and the oxidation of lipids.

Diabetes mellitus

Increased free radical production has been linked to disorders of glucose metabolism and to the complications of diabetes.

Neurodegenerative diseases

Oxidative stress appears to play an important role in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Inflammatory and autoimmune diseases

Chronic inflammation can lead to increased free radical production, intensifying oxidative damage.

Premature ageing

Oxidative damage to the cells is considered one of the key mechanisms associated with the ageing process.

The oxidative stress index is measured through special laboratory analyses of specific biochemical markers in the blood.

The index makes it possible to assess:

• the production of free radicals
• the body’s total antioxidant capacity
• the level of oxidative damage

No fasting is required and the test can be done at any time of day. The results are available after 5 days, accompanied by a recommended antioxidant regimen and a schedule for follow-up testing. In a modern diagnostic centre, the analysis is performed with advanced technology and reliable laboratory methods, ensuring highly accurate results.

The test can be an important preventive screening tool for people who wish to monitor their state of health.

Oxidative stress testing can be particularly useful for:

• people under intense stress or with a demanding lifestyle
• smokers
• people with metabolic syndrome or diabetes
• people who exercise intensively
• people with chronic inflammatory diseases
• anyone interested in preventive health screening

The test can also help monitor the effectiveness of dietary or therapeutic interventions.

Reducing oxidative stress relies mainly on lifestyle changes that strengthen the body’s natural antioxidant mechanisms.

Some basic practices include:

• adopting a balanced diet
• eating more fruit and vegetables
• regular physical activity
• enough good-quality sleep
• limiting smoking and alcohol
• effective stress management

Monitoring through specialised tests can help assess the results of these changes.

The modern Mikrolab diagnostic centres perform specialised oxidative stress tests, aiming at a reliable assessment of the body’s biochemical balance.

Using modern laboratory equipment and specialised analytical methods, we provide accurate, reliable results that contribute to prevention and to comprehensive health monitoring.

The specialised scientific team of the diagnostic centres is available to inform patients about the tests available and the importance of preventive screening.