Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals (unstable molecules) and antioxidants in your body. Free radicals can cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA, leading to various diseases and aging. Measuring oxidative stress can help in the early detection of conditions related to inflammation, chronic disease, and overall cellular health. This blood test measures 2 key markers of this process: 

• 8-OHdG (8-hydroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine): 8-OHdG is a byproduct of DNA damage caused by oxidative stress. 
• MDA (Malondialdehyde): MDA is a marker of lipid peroxidation, which is the process of free radicals damaging the lipids in your cell membranes. 

High levels of oxidative stress markers can suggest that your body is under significant stress, which can lead to or exacerbate various health conditions, including:

• Cardiovascular Diseases: Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of atherosclerosis, hypertension, and other heart-related conditions.
• Cancer: Chronic oxidative stress can lead to DNA damage, increasing the risk of mutations and cancer development.
• Neurodegenerative Disorders: Conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative diseases are often linked to oxidative stress-induced damage to brain cells.
• Chronic Inflammation: High oxidative stress levels are closely linked to chronic inflammation, which can affect various organs and tissues, leading to conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
• Accelerated Aging: Oxidative stress accelerates the aging process by damaging cells and tissues, contributing to wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity, and other signs of aging.

Measuring oxidative stress markers is crucial because it provides early clues about underlying health issues. Elevated levels of 8-OHdG and MDA can signal that your body is under stress, prompting further investigation into the root causes, such as inflammation, poor diet, environmental toxins, or chronic disease. By identifying these issues early, your healthcare provider can tailor interventions to address the specific sources of oxidative stress, preventing further damage and improving overall wellbeing and longevity. 

If your results are abnormal, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to understand what is causing high oxidative stress. Your doctor can recommend further testing to identify the root cause. They can also provide recommendations about specific antioxidant supplementation, in addition to targeted dietary and lifestyle changes that can be implemented to reduce the risk of disease from high oxidative stress.