Oxidative stress in ageing Europeans
Oxidative stress has been reported to increase with advancing age. This is a result of the increased production of free radicals in cells. Uncontrolled oxidative stress can result in cardiovascular disease, dementia and diabetes (conditions known as oxidative pathologies). Zinc (Zn) supplements were given to late middle-aged (55-70 years) and older aged (70-85 years) European men and women. Subjects received a placebo or 30 mg Zn per day. Oxidative status was determined by measurement of levels of chemical indicators of oxidative stress in blood and urine. Measurements were taken at the start of the study (entry), and then after 3 and 6 months. There were significant differences in terms of gender. Overall, it seems that oxidative status is higher in women than in men. However, the data collected over the trial period indicated that there was no significant reduction in oxidative stress within the group due to the supplementation of zinc. Zinc therefore appears to have a limited effect in counteracting oxidative stress when taken as a single supplement. However, it may have benefits in other areas such as immunity, cognitive functions and osteoporosis.