Antioxidants, Physical Activity and Oxidative Stress in Older Women

Objective: To verify the influence of dietary antioxidant supplementation in older women who regularly practice physical activities, on the occurrence of oxidative stress, physical health and risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Method: Two groups (S and Q of women, with age ranging from 60 to 80 years old, were observed. Both groups took part in a physical activity program for 58 weeks, three times a week, for about 50 to 55 minutes each session. The diet of group S (n=36) was daily supplemented with 330 ml of a functional antioxidant beverage, Funciona (TM); Group C (n=32) ingested water and was used as Control. As oxidative stress indicators, the plasmatic concentrations of reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione were determined; the molar GSH/GSSG ratio was calculated, and the oxidative damage in lipids and proteins was evaluated. The physical and cardiovascular conditions were evaluated through routine anthropometric parameters (weight, stature and BMI) and blood pressure. Results: Group C presented significant increases of oxidative stress, reduction in the blood pressure and in the indicators of cardiovascular risks. Group S presented significant reduction of the oxidative stress and increment of the cardiovascular gains. Significance concerning the ergogenic effects has not been identified. Conclusion: Our data suggest that regular exercise in older women can improve physical and cardiovascular conditions. Moreover, daily intake of functional antioxidant supplement can minimize harmful effects of the reactive oxygen species.