2025.01.21
【Doctor-Supervised】Methods for Measuring Oxidative Stress and Key Markers Explained
Oxidative stress, often referred to as the “rust” of the body, is linked to increased disease risks and aging.
Oxidative stress occurs when reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the body become excessively elevated. Although it’s a critical factor in health and beauty, oxidative stress doesn’t show visible symptoms, leaving many people unsure of their condition despite feeling concerned about it.
Today, oxidative stress can be easily measured through urine or blood tests. However, these tests are not included in standard health checkups, so you need to visit a medical facility to have them done. The results can serve as a guide for reviewing your daily habits and improving your overall health.
This article explains how oxidative stress is measured and the benefits of understanding your oxidative stress levels.
Oxidative stress, often described as the “rust” of the body, occurs when the balance between the production and elimination of ROS is disrupted.
Excess ROS damage healthy cells, leading to increased disease risks and aging. Recently, oxidative stress has gained attention, particularly among health-conscious women. However, because oxidative stress is invisible and rarely tested, it’s often discussed in vague terms, such as “I feel like I’m accumulating stress” or “My lifestyle might make me prone to it.”
In reality, oxidative stress can be quantified through medical testing. While the tests are self-funded, they are relatively affordable and provide valuable insights into your health. It’s worth trying at least once to understand your current condition.
Reference: How to Check Oxidative Stress Levels Yourself
Previously, measuring oxidative stress required large-scale equipment and experimental facilities, but advancements have made testing simpler and more accessible.
That said, oxidative stress testing is not included in standard health checkups under occupational health and safety laws, nor is it a mandatory part of comprehensive medical exams. The primary goal of comprehensive exams is the early detection and treatment of diseases. While oxidative stress contributes to various disease risks, it is neither a direct cause of diseases nor a symptom of their early stages.
To measure oxidative stress, you’ll need to visit a medical facility and request the test.
Reference: How to Check Oxidative Stress Levels Yourself
Oxidative stress is measured using specialized equipment.
Methods like d-ROM tests and BAP tests analyze urine or blood samples. Oxidized DNA, lipids, and proteins appear in urine or blood (as markers), and their levels indicate the amount of ROS causing oxidative stress.
There are also methods to assess the functionality of the body’s antioxidant system. Knowing your oxidative stress levels can prompt lifestyle changes, indirectly reducing disease risks and slowing the aging process.
Reference: Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Measurement Devices
Reference: How to Check Oxidative Stress Levels Yourself
