Review Article
Antioxidant Countermeasures for Oxidative Stress in Spaceflight and Terrestrial Environments
Issue:
Volume 14, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
102-109
Received:
7 July 2026
Accepted:
20 July 2026
Published:
10 August 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajls.20261404.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Oxidative stress (OS) occurs when the body produces more reactive oxygen species (ROS), commonly known as free radicals, than its natural antioxidant defenses can effectively neutralize. When this imbalance persists, it can damage cells and tissues, contributing to the development of various chronic diseases. These highly reactive molecules can affect important cellular components such as lipids, proteins, and DNA, disrupting normal biological functions. On Earth, oxidative stress is often linked to factors such as environmental pollution, exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, unhealthy diets, smoking, and other lifestyle habits that increase free radical production. The challenge becomes even greater in space. Astronauts are exposed to conditions far more extreme than experienced on Earth, including microgravity, prolonged isolation, disrupted sleep cycles, and intense exposure to ionizing cosmic radiation. Together, these factors place additional stress on the body, increasing the likelihood of mitochondrial dysfunction, reduced cellular repair capacity, and genetic damage. As a result, astronauts may face accelerated physiological changes that can affect multiple body systems during and after space missions. This study investigates how oxidative stress develops and influences human health in both terrestrial and spaceflight environments. It also investigates the efficacy of various preventative methods for reducing oxidative damage. Both enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants receive specific attention, including naturally occurring antioxidant enzymes, vitamins, dietary flavonoids, polyphenols, and specialized nutritional supplements. Current research suggests that these measures can help reduce cellular damage, increase the body's defenses, and boost resilience under difficult situations. Understanding oxidative stress in normal and extreme environments allows researchers to design more effective techniques to safeguard human health. Advances in nutrition, biomedical sciences, and technology may give useful tools for reducing oxidative damage, improving long-term well-being, and enhancing human performance on Earth and in space.
Abstract: Oxidative stress (OS) occurs when the body produces more reactive oxygen species (ROS), commonly known as free radicals, than its natural antioxidant defenses can effectively neutralize. When this imbalance persists, it can damage cells and tissues, contributing to the development of various chronic diseases. These highly reactive molecules can aff...
Show More
,
Otum Augustine Oko
