Oxidative stress occurs when we have more free radicals than antioxidants available. Free radicals occur as a byproduct of metabolism, but also environmental pollutants, unhealthy lifestyle and poor diet increase free radical production. An excess of free radicals causes damage in our proteins, cell membranes and DNA. Over time this can lead to chronic health conditions: cancer, cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative conditions. Symptoms of oxidative stress include: systemic inflammation, inability to lose weight, chronic joint pain, fatigue, and brain fog. Testing helps us hone in on the best way to reduce oxidative stress, and reduce the risk of developing diseases associated with aging.
Oxidative Stress Test Markers
- sIgA– Immune function in the gut. Up to 80% of our immune system is in the gut. When this is out of range, it’s a good indication we need to support immune function. When it’s high, it’s an indication our body is fighting a pathogen, often a gut pathogen. When it’s low, we are more reactive to foods and experience more oxidative stress.
- Zonulin – elevated levels indicate not only a leaky gut (which is helpful to know in relation to food reactions), but also a leaky blood brain barrier (e.g., brain fog). Wheat/gluten proteins, viruses and mold can trigger the release of zonulin. Zonulin levels will elevate before the development of an autoimmune condition.
- LPS (Lipopolysaccharide) – is a toxin created in our bodies by problematic bacteria. When LPS is high, it damages our intestinal lining, increases permeability and negatively impacts gut bacteria. It also down regulates immune cells responsible for suppressing an overactive immune system (when these immune cells are suppressed, opportunity for inflammation and autoimmune activation are increased). Because of its correlation with inflammation, LPS also contributes to an increase risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Total Glutathione – glutathione, our master antioxidant, helps to reduce oxidative stress. When this is low, we know we need to implement strategies to increase glutathione. It’s also helpful to know the total glutathione level if the following two markers are elevated.
- F-2 Isoprostane – when elevated this is an indication that our fats are oxidized. Inflamed fats in our brain can contribute to depression, anxiety, and neurological conditions like Parkinson’s. These oxidized fats can also contribute to cardiovascular disease (e.g., plaque buildup). Because they can also block hormone receptors, elevated F-2 Isoprostane can also be linked to menopausal symptoms. When we have oxidized fats, adding more fat (e.g., DHA in omega 3s) can make things worse. We need to reduce oxidation before adding in beneficial fats.
- 8-OHdG – when this is elevated, it’s an indication we have a toxic overload and potentially the DNA of our mitochondria are experiencing damage which affects our energy. It can also result in the unraveling of our telomeres (which protect our DNA), resulting in accelerated aging and increased cancer risk as well as an aggressive cancer risk.