Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when free radicals (toxic products of the metabolism) overpower the antioxidant protection mechanisms of the body. Oxidative stress is, at a certain extent, a normal phenomenon; it is also present in healthy people. A problem arises when the balance is disturbed and the natural defense mechanisms fail. The level of free radicals begins to exceed the capacity of our body, which changes the oxidative status, and the body enters the so-called zone of increased oxidative stress.

We call it the state of oxidative stress when the body is in such a state that there is an increased production of free radicals and a reduced ability of the body to neutralize and eliminate them. Long-term oxidative stress is one of the main causes of a large number of lifestyle-related diseases. Furthermore, oxidative stress causes direct serious damage to tissue and the whole body. It occurs in ischemic-reperfusion conditions, inflammatory processes and damage, malignant diseases, cardiovascular and neurological diseases.