What supplements inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS) production?

From the Guidelines

Vitamin E is the most effective supplement to inhibit reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, with a recommended daily dose of 800 IU, as evidenced by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The most effective options to inhibit ROS production include:

• Vitamin E: 800 IU daily, as it plays an essential role in normal metabolism and protects membrane lipids, lipoproteins, and depot fats from lipid peroxidation 1
• Other antioxidants like Vitamin C, N-acetylcysteine (NAC), alpha-lipoic acid, and Coenzyme Q10 may also be beneficial, but the evidence is not as strong as it is for Vitamin E 1 These supplements work as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. Key points to consider:
• Vitamin E can protect polyunsaturated fatty acids in the membrane from oxidation and regulate the production of ROS and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) 1
• Vitamin E has been shown to exert immunostimulatory effects and may improve lymphocyte proliferation, delayed type hypersensitivity response, and IL-2 production 1
• The safety of long-term use of Vitamin E is not known, and it may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer and hemorrhagic stroke, but the absolute risk increase remains low 1 It is essential to maintain a consistent regimen for at least 2-3 months to see noticeable effects and to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.

From the Research

Supplements that Inhibit Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) Production

The following supplements have been identified as inhibitors of ROS production:

• Vitamin E, which avoids lipid peroxidation and participates in the plasma antioxidant defense 2, 3
• Vitamin C, which participates in the vitamin E regeneration system and keeps the plasma's antioxidant potential 2, 3
• Carotenoids, which have antioxidant activity and a protective role against cardiovascular diseases and cancer 2, 3
• Zinc and selenium, which participate in the antioxidant defense, although their supplementation in individuals with normal levels and adequate ingestion of these nutrients does not seem necessary 2
• Resveratrol, which stimulates nitric oxide production, protects endothelial cells from oxidative functional damage, lowers platelet aggregation, and directly inhibits cyclic adenosine monophosphate-specific phosphodiesterases 4
• Feruloylnoradrenaline, which has 14 times the antioxidant power of resveratrol 4

Mechanisms of Action

These supplements work by:

• Scavenging excessively produced ROS and maintaining the balance between ROS production and neutralization 5, 6
• Participating in antioxidant defense systems and providing protection against oxidative damage to biologic macromolecules 3
• Regenerating other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, and keeping the plasma's antioxidant potential 2, 3

Importance of Balance

It is essential to note that the balance between ROS production and scavenging is crucial, and both extremes, oxidative and antioxidative stress, can be damaging 5. Therefore, accurate determination of an individual's oxidative stress levels is necessary before prescribing supplement antioxidants 5.