Purple sweet potato antioxidants for oxidative stress caused by intense physical exercise

Background: Intense exercise increases ROS and reactive nitrogen species, leading to oxidative stress and potential health issues. Balancing free radical production and antioxidant defence is crucial. Endogenous antioxidants help neutralise ROS, but additional supplementation is required to prevent cell damage. Objective: This literature review explores the potential of purple sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.) as an antioxidant source to counteract exercise-induced oxidative stress. Method: Scientific articles from various platforms were collected using keywords such as "Physical exercise," "Oxidative stress," "Purple sweet potato," and "Antioxidant”. Result: Purple sweet potato, rich in anthocyanins and vitamin C, exhibits potent free radical scavenging properties. Consumption of purple sweet potato enhances superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, reduces lipid peroxidation (MDA), inhibits the NF-kB signalling pathway, and prevents increased heat shock protein 72 (HSP72) expression. These findings suggest that purple sweet potato consumption promotes cellular health and mitigates oxidative stress caused by intense physical exercise. Conclusion: In conclusion, incorporating purple sweet potato into the diet shows promise in countering exercise-induced oxidative stress, promoting overall well-being, and preventing chronic diseases. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and optimal dosage for combating oxidative stress during rigorous physical training.