Micronutrients & recovery
Certain flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol) can exhibit pro-oxidant activity in the presence of transition metals (like copper or iron), leading to DNA damage and lipid peroxidation, particularly in vitro or in specific pathological contexts like cancer cells with high copper levels.
Do not take high-dose isolated antioxidant supplements (especially those known to be pro-oxidant like high-dose vitamin E or specific flavonoids) without medical supervision, especially if you have conditions affecting metal metabolism. Stick to whole food sources of antioxidants, which naturally regulate their own activity and minimize pro-oxidant risks.
Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, induce nuclear DNA damage and lipid peroxidation in the presence of transition metals... The preferential cytotoxicity towards tumor cells is probably due to the high levels of copper ions... in tumor tissues.
Why this rating
Based on in vitro studies and cell culture data; in vivo significance in normal tissues is noted as 'generally not considered significant' except in metal toxicity.
Source
Plant-Derived Bioactives and Oxidative Stress-Related Disorders: A Key Trend towards Healthy Aging and Longevity Promotion
Bahare Salehi et al. · Applied Sciences · 2020
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