Oxidative stress occurs when the redox balance—the equilibrium between antioxidants and free radicals (reactive oxygen species, ROS)—is disrupted in favor of the oxidants. 

This imbalance happens when the body’s production of free radicals exceeds the capacity of its antioxidants to neutralise them. Free radicals are produced naturally during metabolic processes within the mitochondria and play essential roles in energy production, immune function, and cellular signalling. However, excessive stress, environmental pollution, UV exposure, and unhealthy lifestyle choices such as smoking and poor diet can dramatically increase free radical production, overwhelming the body's antioxidant defences.

When there aren't enough antioxidants to maintain redox balance, free radicals start 'electron theft,' stealing electrons from vital cellular components like lipids, proteins, and DNA. This process leads to cellular damage, mutating genes, denaturing proteins, and rupturing cell membranes, which disrupts normal cell functions and can result in various diseases. The ongoing overproduction of free radicals not only causes more extensive cellular damage but also perpetuates a cycle of increased oxidative stress. 

Colostrum is a rich source of natural antioxidants, which are crucial for maintaining cellular health and preventing oxidative stress. These antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, E, glutathione, lactoferrin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, selenium, and zinc, are synthesised naturally by the cow and concentrated in the colostrum during the late stages of pregnancy. This natural process ensures that the newborn receives a potent boost of immune-supporting substances to protect against infections and promote healthy development. 

Antioxidants in colostrum function primarily by neutralising free radicals, the unstable molecules that cause oxidative damage. They achieve this by donating electrons to free radicals without becoming destabilised themselves, effectively stopping the chain reaction of cellular damage. Here’s how each antioxidant contributes:

• Vitamins A, C, and E are well-known for their roles in scavenging different types of free radicals. 
• Glutathione, often called the master antioxidant, is a tripeptide that reduces peroxides, neutralises toxins, and maintains exogenous antioxidants such as vitamins C and E in their reduced (active) forms.
• Lactoferrin binds iron, which reduces the availability of this metal needed for the generation of the most harmful free radicals via the Fenton reaction. Additionally, lactoferrin has its own antioxidant properties.
• Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Catalase are enzymatic antioxidants that catalyse the breakdown of superoxide radicals into either ordinary molecular oxygen or hydrogen peroxide, which is then converted to water and oxygen by catalase, thus reducing oxidative stress.
• Selenium and Zinc are essential minerals that function as cofactors for several key antioxidant enzymes, boosting their activity and enhancing overall antioxidant capacity.

Together, these antioxidants provide comprehensive protection against oxidative damage, support the body’s redox balance, and are integral to preventing the cellular deterioration that leads to ageing and various diseases. By incorporating colostrum into the diet, individuals can significantly enhance their antioxidant defence system, offering vital protection to maintain cellular health and function.