What Does It Mean?
- Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage.
- Functional medicine addresses oxidative stress by identifying root causes such as inflammation, toxin exposure, and nutritional deficiencies.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Chronic Inflammation: Persistent inflammation increases oxidative stress.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of antioxidants reduce the body's ability to neutralize free radicals.
- Environmental Toxins: Exposure to pollutants, heavy metals, and chemicals contributes to oxidative damage.
- Poor Diet: High intake of processed foods and refined sugars can increase free radical production.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Impaired cellular energy production leads to increased oxidative stress.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Fatigue and brain fog
- Premature aging and skin issues
- Increased susceptibility to infections
- Chronic pain and joint discomfort
- Neurological symptoms such as headaches or cognitive decline
Diagnostic Lab Findings
The following lab tests assess oxidative stress and free radical activity:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| Albumin | Decreased | 4.50-5.00 g/dL |
| Bilirubin, Total | Normal/Decreased | 0.50-0.90 mg/dL |
| Cholesterol, Serum | Increased | 180.00-220.00 mg/dL |
| Copper : Zinc Ratio | Imbalanced | 0.70-1.50 |
| Ferritin | Increased | 45.00-79.00 ng/mL |
| Free T3 : Reverse T3 Ratio | Decreased | 10.00-28.00 |
| Globulin | Normal | 2.40-2.80 g/dL |
| Glutathione | Decreased | 373.00-838.00 µM |
| LDL Cholesterol Direct | Increased | 80.00-99.99 mg/dL |
| Lymphocyte % | Normal | 30.00-40.00 % |
| MPV | Increased | 7.50-8.20 fL |
| Platelet Count | Normal | 190.00-300.00 cells/µL |
| Uric Acid | Increased | 3.50-5.40 mg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on reducing oxidative stress, enhancing antioxidant levels, and improving detoxification pathways.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| V-Pax | Provides comprehensive micronutrient support | 2 capsules with food, twice daily |
| CoQ-10 300 mg | Supports mitochondrial function and cellular energy | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces systemic inflammation and neutralizes free radicals | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Enhances detoxification and antioxidant protection | 1 capsule with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Antioxidant-Rich Diet: Increase intake of berries, leafy greens, and healthy fats.
- Reduce Toxin Exposure: Avoid processed foods, limit alcohol, and reduce exposure to environmental pollutants.
- Hydration & Detoxification: Support liver function with adequate hydration and detox-supporting foods.
- Regular Physical Activity: Engage in moderate exercise to enhance circulation and reduce oxidative stress.
- Stress Management: Reduce cortisol-induced oxidative stress through mindfulness, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques.