Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Natural Antioxidants in Combating Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65339/ijsair.V2.I2.183Keywords:
Antioxidants, Catalase, Glutathione, Meta-analysis, Oxidative stress, Polyphenols, Reactive oxygen species, Superoxide dismutaseAbstract
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of natural antioxidants in mitigating oxidative stress-related diseases through a quantitative meta-analysis of existing literature. Anchored on the relationship between oxidative stress and disease progression, the study examined how natural antioxidants—such as polyphenols, flavonoids, and carotenoids—reduce reactive oxygen species and enhance antioxidant defenses. The research employed a meta-analytic design using secondary data from peer-reviewed studies, primarily involving experimental rodent models. Data were systematically collected using a structured extraction form, and analyzed through forest plots, heterogeneity tests, and funnel plots to assess effect sizes, variability, and publication bias. The findings revealed that natural antioxidants significantly reduced lipid peroxidation, as indicated by decreased malondialdehyde levels, and markedly increased antioxidant enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase. Despite substantial heterogeneity across studies, the overall results consistently demonstrated beneficial effects of antioxidant interventions. Polyphenols and flavonoids, particularly morin, curcumin, resveratrol, green tea catechins, and quercetin, exhibited the strongest effects, although some compounds showed limited efficacy. Challenges identified included variability in study design, dosage, and methodology, as well as potential publication bias and limited generalizability due to reliance on animal models. The study concludes that natural antioxidants effectively enhance the body’s defense against oxidative stress, though further standardized and human-based research is necessary. This study aligns with SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) by supporting strategies for preventing chronic diseases and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) through the promotion of plant-based antioxidants. It contributes to public health and nutritional sustainability by advancing evidence-based approaches for disease prevention and supporting the development of antioxidant-based healthcare interventions.
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