Tag: Pro oxidant effect

While our bodies produce their own antioxidants, research shows that excessive intake of synthetic antioxidant supplements can lead to harmful side effects. Contrary to popular belief, more is not always better when it comes to these compounds.

The human body maintains a delicate balance between free radicals and antioxidants; disrupting this equilibrium can lead to a condition known as "reductive stress" or the **can too much antioxidants cause oxidative stress** paradox, challenging the belief that more is always better.

While dietary intake of flavonoids from fruits and vegetables is widely considered safe, the enthusiasm for high-dose flavonoid supplements has sometimes overlooked their potential for toxicity. Excessive consumption of concentrated flavonoids can shift their effect from beneficial antioxidants to harmful pro-oxidants, affecting major organ systems and interfering with critical bodily functions.

Research has shown that while a diet rich in antioxidants is beneficial, high-dose antioxidant supplements can have toxic effects and even increase health risks. This raises the critical question: **can you overdo it on antioxidants?**