NANP Board Practice Exam

What defines oxidative stress?

1. Increased concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) not properly counterbalanced by oxygen metabolite-processing enzymes

2. Decrease in trans fatty acids

3. Increase in omega 9 fatty acids

4. Reduction of saturated fats

The correct answer is: Increased concentration of reactive oxygen species (ROS) not properly counterbalanced by oxygen metabolite-processing enzymes

Oxidative stress is defined as the increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) that is not properly balanced by oxygen metabolite-processing enzymes. This means that there is an overload of these harmful molecules that can damage cells and tissues in the body. Option B, decreasing trans fatty acids, would not define oxidative stress as it is not directly related to the increase of ROS. Option C, increasing omega 9 fatty acids, would also not define oxidative stress as it does not directly mention the increase in reactive oxygen species. Option D, reducing saturated fats, would not define oxidative stress as it does not address the imbalance of ROS and oxygen metabolite-processing enzymes.