Question

Describe what oxidative stress is. Provide three examples of how our bodies can be exposed to oxidative stress. Also, describe the role antioxidants play in regard to oxidative stress. Be sure to include in your answer a brief explanation of what free radicals are.

Answer 1

Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals (highly unstable molecules that are naturally formed when you exercise and when your body converts food into energy) and the ability of the body to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects through neutralization by antioxidants. Antioxidants such as thiols or ascorbic acid prevent free radicals forming due to oxidation. Some ways our bodies can be exposed to oxidative stress are by having an unbalanced diet, smoking, or sun exposure. Some ways to prevent oxidative stress are having a healthy diet, not smoking, exercising regularly and wearing sunscreen.