Changes of oxidative stress caused by physical activity

Abstract

Free radicals and reactive oxygen species are produced in the human body as a part of metabolic processes. Reactive species in low levels are important for cellular activities. Excessive amounts of reactive species can be harmful because they can produce lipid peroxidation, proteins and ADN oxidation. For reduce these harmful effects the organism requires an antioxidant defence. Oxidative stress is involve in atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aerobic and anaerobic exercises have different effects on the muscles, but both influence positively the biomarkers of oxidative stress. Studies prove that aerobics increase endogenous antioxidant status. Regular moderate exercises produce an increase in antioxidant activity, due to the changes in redox homeostasis. The aim of this review is to discuss the importance of a constant physical activity for increase the body's antioxidant system and to protect against oxidative stress.