Posted by Catherline Ng
on September 08, 2025
What Is SOD?
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an essential antioxidant enzyme naturally present in the human body. It helps neutralize superoxide radicals, one of the most common reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during metabolism. By converting these radicals into less harmful molecules, SOD plays a role in supporting cellular protection against oxidative stress.
In simple terms: SOD is part of the body’s built-in system that helps reduce oxidative stress and protect cells.
How Does SOD Work?
SOD catalyzes the dismutation of superoxide radicals (O₂⁻) into oxygen (O₂) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), which are then further broken down by catalase and glutathione peroxidase. This cascade supports redox balance and helps limit oxidative effects on DNA, proteins, and lipids.
In simple terms: SOD acts as an early defense by helping the body manage harmful molecules before they damage cells.
Why Is SOD Important with Age?
As people age, natural SOD activity may decline, making it harder for the body to cope with accumulated oxidative stress. This decline has been associated with changes in cellular function and resilience. Maintaining antioxidant balance through lifestyle and nutrition is one way to support healthy defenses.
In simple terms: With age, our natural antioxidant defenses may weaken, so supporting them through healthy habits can help maintain balance.
Endogenous vs. Supplemental SOD
It is important to distinguish between endogenous SOD (naturally produced in the body) and supplemental SOD (taken through diet or supplements).
- Endogenous SOD works directly inside cells.
- Oral SOD must survive digestion and absorption, and its ability to increase intracellular enzyme activity remains under scientific investigation.
In simple terms: The body makes its own SOD, while oral SOD supplements may work differently. Research is ongoing to better understand their impact.
Sources of SOD
- Natural sources: Cabbage, broccoli, wheatgrass, barley grass, and certain mushrooms.
- Supplements: Available in different forms, sometimes combined with protective carriers (such as gliadin) to help with stability during digestion.
- Note: In this article, SOD refers to the biological enzyme in general. The actual form used in supplements may vary depending on product design and regulatory approval.
In simple terms: You can get SOD from certain foods or in supplement form, though supplement stability and effectiveness may vary.
FAQ
Q1: How is supplemental SOD different from natural SOD in the body?
A: The body produces its own SOD inside cells. Supplemental forms must survive digestion and absorption, and their effects may vary. Research is ongoing.
Q2: What form of SOD is usually used in supplements?
A: Supplements may contain plant-based extracts or stabilized enzyme complexes. The form depends on local regulations and product design.
Q3: Who should be cautious with SOD supplements?
A: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, or individuals with medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use.
References
1. McCord, J. M., & Fridovich, I. (1988). Superoxide dismutase: The first twenty years (1968–1988). Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 5(5–6), 363–369. https://doi.org/10.1016/0891-5849(88)90109-8
2. Zelko, I. N., Mariani, T. J., & Folz, R. J. (2002). Superoxide dismutase multigene family: A comparison of the CuZn-SOD (SOD1), Mn-SOD (SOD2), and EC-SOD (SOD3) gene structures, evolution, and expression. Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 33(3), 337–349. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0891-5849(02)00905-X
3. Fukai, T., & Ushio-Fukai, M. (2011). Superoxide dismutases: Role in redox signaling, vascular function, and diseases. Antioxidants & Redox Signaling, 15(6), 1583–1606. https://doi.org/10.1089/ars.2011.3999
4. Carillon, J., Knabe, L., Montalban, A., Stevant, M., Keophiphath, M., Lacan, D., Cristol, J. P., & Rouanet, J. M. (2014). Curative and preventive effects of a melon superoxide dismutase extract against oxidative stress and fatigue: A clinical trial. Antioxidants, 3(2), 329–343. https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox3020329
5. Pizzino, G., Irrera, N., Cucinotta, M., Pallio, G., Mannino, F., Arcoraci, V., Squadrito, F., Altavilla, D., & Bitto, A. (2017). Oxidative stress: Harms and benefits for human health. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2017, 8416763. https://doi.org/10.1155/2017/8416763
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Results may vary by individual.
