Physical fitness provides protection against oxidative stress

[CoachBobM]

In a study published in the June 14, 2011 issue of the journal Age, researchers from the Kronos Longevity Research Institute in Phoenix, AZ reported the results of a study of fit and unfit adults in their 60s to early 70s which found that the fit adults were less susceptible to oxidative stress. The fitness of the adults was determined by measuring their VO2 max and maximal leg power. Oxidative stress was then created by temporarily cutting off blood flow in their forearms and then restoring it. The fit individuals were found to have lower levels of urinary markers of oxidative damage and lower levels of F(2)-isoprostane in their blood in response to the stress.

The researchers reported that the differences could not be accounted for by differences in body fat or serum levels of HDL (good) cholesterol, and hypothesize that the moderate periodic increases in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in those who exercise regularly stimulates their bodies to produce more natural antioxidants, thereby making them less susceptible to the effects of oxidative stress.


Bob