Have you ever heard of oxidative stress ? This mechanism, often unknown or underestimated by athletes, should not be taken lightly. Neglected, it can have negative consequences on your performance and recovery. We tell you everything you need to know about oxidative stress .
Oxidative stress : imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants
To meet the body's energy needs , cells use oxygen to create energy that can be used by the body in motion. It is during this process that free radicals are created. Free radicals are free residual molecules that seek to attach to other molecules. When they succeed, the molecules to which they pair in turn become free radicals and so on, creating a chain reaction. When the ratio of free radicals to antioxidants is balanced, they are not harmful . But when the balance tips towards free radicals, things get bad. Indeed, when this ratio is unbalanced and free radicals are in excess, they can damage cells , particularly those making up muscles and joints .
Sustained sports practice promotes oxidative stress
In daily life, many factors promote oxidative stress : pollution, tobacco, an unbalanced diet, UV rays and... sport ! Indeed, sustained physical activity is synonymous with an increased development of free radicals . This concerns in particular the most intense and long-term sporting disciplines, such as marathons, cycling, ultra trail running, triathlons, etc. This is explained above all by the intense respiratory effort provided during the activity, resulting in the oxidation of cells . The body no longer gives the full measure of its capabilities and slows down. The effects of oxidative stress are then quickly felt: fatigue, reduction in muscle power, muscle contractions, digestive disorders, etc.
Our solutions to fight free radicals
The solution to protect yourself from oxidative stress and its effects, as you will have understood, is to restore the balance between free radicals and antioxidants . This balance should be worked on well before your race or long outing. Indeed, a balanced terrain will be less conducive to increased and rapid development of free radicals. To do this, focus on foods naturally rich in antioxidants (dried beans, cranberries, artichokes, blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, etc.), but also on sports nutrition . Antioxidant maltodextrin and the antioxidant sports cake MX3 are specially designed to offer you an optimal ratio before departure. During the race , continue your antioxidant effort with the antioxidant energy drink and antioxidant gels MX3.
