Some Sources of Oxidative Stress

Oxidative Stress naturally occurs during biological processes the body. It is only a problem when it is excessive (ex. autoimmune conditions).  In my last article, I didn't include potential sources of oxidative stress, so I wanted to write it in this one. I collected the information listed below from an article, called Oxidative Stress: An Essential Factor in the Pathogenesis of Gastrointestinal Mucosal Diseases.  As you can tell, it is not possible to completely eliminate oxidative stress, because oxidative stress is part of natural intracellular processes and - for people fighting cancer - excessive oxidative stress can be a form of treatment for them.  My intention to write this article is so that you are have information that may help you make wiser decisions on how to manage your oxidative stress.  

Endogenous Sources (what happens in your cells and the rest of your body)

  • Mitochondrial respiratory chain
  • Intracellular Enzyme
  • Respiratory Burst and NADPH oxidase
  • Xanthine oxidase
  • Lipooxygenases
  • Glucose Oxidase
  • Myeloperoxidase
  • Nitric Oxide Synthase
  • Cyclo-oxygenase
  • Transition Metals

Exogenous Sources (environmental)

  • Pollutants
  • Radiation
  • Cigarette Smoking
  • Food and Nutrients
    • Trans fatty acids possibly due to acrylamide
    • Iron and Copper
    • Fats cooked in the microwave or overheated
    • Ethanol (ex. alcohol)
  • Drugs and Xenobiotics 
    • Nonsteriods Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS)
      • Aspirin
      • Ibuprofen
      • Naproxen
    • Anti-cancer drugs (ex. quinones)
    • Glucocorticoid Therapy
    • Volatile anesthetics

 

Reference

Bhattacharyya, A., Chattopadhyay, R., Mitra, S., & Crowe, S. E. (2014). Oxidative Stress: An Essential Factor in the Pathogenesis of Gastrointestinal Mucosal Diseases. Physiological Reviews94(2), 329–354. http://doi.org/10.1152/physrev.00040.2012