Tag: Reductive stress

While antioxidants are celebrated for neutralizing cell-damaging free radicals, research shows that excessive amounts can have the opposite effect. The body requires a delicate balance of both antioxidants and reactive oxygen species for optimal health. Overloading with synthetic antioxidant supplements can disrupt this equilibrium, leading to unexpected and potentially harmful outcomes.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), research has shown that taking large, supplemental amounts of antioxidants may not always be beneficial for health. While a balanced diet rich in antioxidants is essential, the belief that more is always better is a myth with potentially serious consequences, prompting the question: can too much antioxidants be bad?

According to the American Heart Association, heart disease remains a leading cause of death, often linked to imbalances like oxidative stress. While reduced glutathione is a critical antioxidant that protects the heart, research shows that excessively high levels can lead to a condition called 'reductive stress,' which may negatively impact cardiac function.