Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress: Are Plant-Derived Extracts and Antioxidants Supplementation Really Helpful?

Dear Colleagues,

A lack of physical activity is considered an important risk factor for the onset of many pathologies, while regular exercise activities are associated with lower risk of all causes of mortality. Is well known that physical activity induces a whole-body physiological response at the systemic and cellular level; however, an excessive high-level of exercise can elevate stress, thus increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, which, if not properly balanced by the endogenous antioxidant system, can compromise the performance of athletes. Although ROS are potentially harmful molecules, they are also fundamental mediators for the progression of several biological processes. For this reason, maintaining the correct balance between oxidizing and antioxidants agents is essential for well-functioning cells and for health-related quality life. Based on anecdotal information or partial literature, professional and amateur athletes tend to abuse many different plant-derived extracts and/or antioxidant nutrients with the purpose to counteract oxidative stress and improve physical performance. Recent human studies have inquired about the real advantage of the assumption of these products in sport practice with different results, considering that, along with some undoubted positive effects, side effects and adverse events of an incorrect use of antioxidants have also been highlighted. This Special Issue “Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress: Are Plant-Derived Extracts and Antioxidants Supplementation Really Helpful?” has the final objective to consider recent research about beneficial, neutral or negative effects induced by natural antioxidants supplementation in sports practice. The Special Issue invites submissions of manuscripts, either original research or reviews, with an emphasis on describing the interplay between oxidative stress, physical activity, nutritional strategies and skeletal muscle function. The main focus is on human studies, but work in animal models as well as in vitro studies will also be considered. 

Dr. Duranti Guglielmo
Guest Editor

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• oxidative stress
• exercise
• physical activity
• skeletal muscle
• muscle damage
• antioxidants
• reactive oxygen species
• redox balance
• aging
• nutrition