“Oxidative stress is defined as excessive production of reactive
oxygen species (ROS) in the presence of diminished antioxidant substances.
It has been shown that oxidative stress has an adverse effect on glucose
metabolism. Development of the disabling chronic complications of diabetes
mellitus (DM) has also been attributed to oxidative stress. The body’s
defense against oxidative stress is accomplished by interconnecting
systems of antioxidant micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and enzymes.
While the vitamins act as donors and acceptors of ROS, minerals regulate
activity of the enzymes. “ – Opara (2002)
Opara EC. Oxidative stress, micronutrients, diabetes
mellitus and its complications. The Journal of The Royal Society for
the Promotion of Health 2002;122(1):28-34.