Document Type : Review Article
Authors
Department of Sport Physiology, Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran.
Abstract
Purpose: Oxidative stress contributes to many chronic diseases. Although physical activity promotes health, its effects on lipid peroxidation (MDA) and total antioxidant status (TAS) remain unclear. This meta‑analysis quantitatively synthesized the effects of physical activity on MDA and TAS in humans. Method: This systematic review and meta‑analysis was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guideline and registered with PROSPERO (CRD420251144711). A systematic literature search was performed across PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science covering the period from January 2000 to November 2025. Human studies evaluating the impact of either acute or chronic physical activity on MDA and TAS concentrations were included. Pooled effect sizes were estimated using a random‑effects model, and standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% CI were calculated. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic.
Results: Out of 620 initially identified records, 21 studies met the eligibility criteria, of which 10 and 4 were suitable for meta‑analysis of MDA and TAS, respectively. Physical activity resulted in a significant reduction in MDA levels (SMD = –1.02; 95% CI: –1.95 to –0.09; p = 0.032). Moreover, physical activity led to a highly significant increase in TAS (SMD = +0.76; 95% CI: 0.38 to 1.15; p < 0.001). Heterogeneity was substantial for both analyses (I² = 94.6% for each). Subgroup analyses revealed that the decline in MDA was more pronounced among individuals with a body mass index above 25 (BMI > 25) and those younger than 50 years (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Regular, structured physical activity effectively lowers lipid peroxidation and enhances total antioxidant capacity in humans. These findings strengthen the role of physical activity as an effective non‑pharmacological strategy for modulating systemic oxidative stress and reducing the risk of related diseases.
Keywords
- Physical activity
- Oxidative stress
- Malondialdehyde (MDA)
- Total antioxidant status (TAS)
- Meta‑analysis
Main Subjects
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