Finding new ways to measure oxidative stress

Now widely accepted, oxidative stress is associated with many degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes; and is increasingly being recognized as a major contributing factor in aging. Oxidative stress occurs when free radicals out number naturally occurring antioxidants, leading to widespread protein, lipid, DNA, and carbohydrate damage.

Now scientists are looking for more accurate ways to measure oxidative stress. This review, Today’s Oxidative Stress Markers, discusses promising new markers of oxidative stress such as isopostanes and allantoin, and advantages of these markers over previously used markers. Significantly, new markers may be crucial in defining the role of oxidative stress in lifestyle-related diseases, as well as its progression in various neurodegenerative diseases. In addition, they allow the effects of various treatments including antioxidants to be measured.

The best prevention against oxidative stress is to eat a diet rich in fruit and vegetables and to exercise regularly. Consider also taking an antioxidant supplement to help boost your own inbuilt antioxidant supply.

Learn more about oxidative stress and it's role in aging

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