External Sources of Free Radicals

June 2022

This post is educational content for practitioners only. 

Due to our modern lifestyle, we have become increasingly exposed to chemically reactive free radical molecules on a daily basis. Although some free radicals naturally occur and are needed for normal physiological balance, levels greater than what our body can control may lead to oxidative damage to cells, accelerated ageing, and disease.[1] Pollution, radiation, heavy metals, pesticides, smoking, infection, and stress, are some widely accepted sources of the free radical burden that often tip our delicate balance.[1]  

The body has antioxidant systems in place which have been shown to help protect the life of the cell by safely reducing free radicals,  and may help reduce inflammation and many age-related chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, diabetes, and poor immunity.[1,2] 

Several important nutrients supporting the demand on these systems with their antioxidant activity, may lower your risk factors, and increase vital protection when included  as part of your patients' health management plan.[1-4] When prescribed correctly, resveratrol, alpha-lipoic acid, unbiquinol (reduced form of coenzyme Q 10), selenium, beta carotene, vitamins C and E, and the mineral zinc, are all compelling antioxidants which can give added cellular protection, reduce the effects of free radicals, and help maintain health and wellness.[1-4] 

Practitioners, to learn more about supporting your patients with environmental toxicity, contact our Clinical Support team on 1300 654 336, or email clinicalsupport@integria.com

References:

1. Liguori I, Russo G, Curcio F, Bulli G, Aran L, Della-Morte D et al. Oxidative stress, aging, and diseases. Clin Interv Aging. 2018;13:757. 2. 

2. Sadowska-Bartosz I, Bartosz G. Effect of antioxidants supplementation on aging and longevity. BioMed Res Internat. 2014 Oct;2014.

3. Conti V, Izzo V, Corbi G, Russomanno G, Manzo V, De Lise F et al. Antioxidant supplementation in the treatment of aging-associated diseases. Front Pharmacol. 2016 Feb 12;7:24.

4. Aziz MA, Diab AS, Mohammed AA. Antioxidant categories and mode of action. In Antioxidants; 2019 Nov 6. London, UK: Intech Open.