The human body is a finely-tuned machine that can operate efficiently for decades if properly maintained. Maintenance simply consists of consumption of a healthy diet and intake of enough water on a regular basis. Exercising regularly is also important. As the human body ages, however, a number of key changes normally start to take place in the body. The first is the development of oxidative stress and aging at a faster rate as a result.

What is Oxidative Stress?

The body needs a lot of energy to function optimally. This energy is produced through a process known as respiration. In this process, the oxygen we breath is used to convert glucose in the body to energy. The process produces a number of by-products, mainly carbon monoxide and water. During the process, free radicals are also produced in the mitochondria, the cell components that are responsible for producing energy. These free radicals are basically a by-product of the oxidation process and can cause damage in the cells. The good news is that the body is designed to efficiently repair the damage caused by the free radicals. Over time, however, the body may repair the damage at a much slower rate than the damage is being caused. This is what is commonly referred to as oxidative stress.

Signs and Symptoms of Oxidative Stress

When your body is not able to deal with the damage caused by free radicals, you will start experiencing a number of symptoms. For instance, you will feel fatigued all the time. You will also experience brain fog or memory loss. You will also become more susceptible to infections and develop both wrinkles and grey hair, which are signs of aging. Headaches, decreased eye sight and muscle/joint pain are also common signs of this health problem. To avoid these and other issues, you only need to reduce exposure to oxidation.

You can do this by avoiding processed foods and sugars. However, you should find ways to keep your sugar level normal without taking any sugar or processed foods. Secondly, you should avoid catching an infection, such as cold/flu as they are known to increase oxidative stress. Thirdly, you should consider exercising, meditating, taking long walks and enjoying nature, which are all daily stress remedies.

Another approach is to consume foods that are rich in antioxidants, or those that can promote production of antioxidants. More importantly, however, you should stay away from toxins.