Role of Antioxidants in Regulating Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress: A Review of Molecular Mechanisms and Functional Impacts

Asadollah Asadi; Narges Yazdan Nasab; Zahra Hormati Oughoulbaig; Seyedeh Zeinab Parandak; Amir Hossein Hormati Oughoulbaig

doi:10.18502/ssu.v33i9.20413

Asadollah Asadi Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran.
Narges Yazdan Nasab Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran.
Zahra Hormati Oughoulbaig Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran.
Seyedeh Zeinab Parandak Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran.
Amir Hossein Hormati Oughoulbaig Department of Sports Physiology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Mohaghegh Ardabili University, Ardabil, Iran.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ssu.v33i9.20413

Keywords: Oxidative stress, Antioxidants, Athletic performance, Cell signaling, Recovery

Abstract

Introduction: Exercise prompts oxidative stress through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), triggering complex physiological mechanisms that play a dual role in both athletic adaptation and cellular damage. This study examined the paradoxical nature of ROS (beneficial signaling vs. harmful effects) and controversies surrounding antioxidant supplementation's impact on athletic performance. Our goals were to analyze the mechanism of antioxidant-ROS interactions and mechanisms and develop personalized antioxidant strategies based on individual characteristics and training regimens.

Methods: This systematic review searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO (2022-2025). We included review articles, experimental studies, and observational studies related to antioxidants, oxidative stress, and physical activity. Exclusions comprised studies without full-text access, irrelevant to biological mechanisms/functional outcomes, or that involved participants with underlying medical conditions.

Results: Analysis of 15 qualifying studies (out of 142 initially identified) revealed that moderate-intensity exercise enhanced antioxidant defenses via Nrf2 pathway activation, while balanced ROS/RNS levels facilitated muscular adaptation. Although antioxidant supplements (like vitamins C/E, polyphenols, coenzyme Q10) supported recovery, excessive intake could impair training adaptation.

Conclusion: Maintaining ROS-antioxidant equilibrium is crucial for athletic performance and well-being. Moderate exercise optimizes antioxidant defenses, whereas intense training may disrupt this balance. Targeted supplementation and polyphenol-rich diets can enhance recovery, but excessive intake might hinder training adaptations. Future research need to determine optimal dosing protocols and investigate long-term effects.