'Three Perspectives' warns of reactive oxygen species and cellular damage

Feeling easily exhausted or losing energy during the summer may not be solely due to the heat or aging. The SBS health and knowledge entertainment program 'Three Perspectives' examines the dangers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage cells and explores fundamental ways to protect internal bodily health.

In the episode of SBS 'Three Perspectives' airing at 8:35 AM on the 19th, MC Kim Suk-hoon and Soseulji join science writer Kwak Jaesik, docent Lee Chang-yong, internist Jung Yong-hwan, and dermatologist Son Ji-hee to examine the causes of summer health decline and key solutions for cellular recovery from various perspectives.

The broadcast focuses on the changes many feel when entering their 40s and 50s, such as feeling that "my body isn't what it used to be" or that "physical strength has dropped sharply." Experts emphasize that during the sweltering summer months, when fatigue and lethargy often intensify, these symptoms should not be dismissed merely as simple aging or seasonal influence.

IV drip injections, a popular choice for cellular recovery and nutritional supplementation, are also a major topic. While many expect quick results by delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream, docent Lee Chang-yong shares a fascinating history of modern injection technology, explaining that current internal delivery methods actually trace their origins back to ancient hunting techniques that used poison instead of medicine, much to the cast's astonishment.

The program also emphasizes that cellular health is more important than the nutrients themselves. If cells are already damaged, even the highest quality nutrients may not be properly absorbed, making it difficult to achieve the desired effects.

Reactive oxygen species are identified as the primary cause of such cellular damage. Internist Jung Yong-hwan describes ROS as "the main culprits that damage cells and ignite inflammation within the body," warning that persistent inflammation can lead to accumulated damage in cells and tissues, increasing the risk of diseases such as stroke, cancer, and dementia.

In Korea, deaths caused by chronic diseases account for approximately 78% of all deaths, and the broadcast reports that cellular damage driven by reactive oxygen species is a significant underlying factor.

Daily dietary habits are also closely linked to the increase in ROS. Dermatologist Son Ji-hee explains, "A single bottle of fruit juice commonly enjoyed in summer can contain sugar equivalent to nearly 10 to 20 sugar cubes," adding that sharp blood sugar spikes from high-sugar beverages can trigger increased inflammatory responses in the body.

She further warns that repeated inflammation can gradually weaken the body's defense system against ROS. If the body's final lines of defense are exhausted, a state of depletion may persist without recovery even after 24 hours, making consistent daily management essential.

The program also points out that ROS, which are an unavoidable part of life, can damage cellular DNA and cause mutations that lead to cancer. Practical solutions for protecting cells will be revealed in the 53rd episode of SBS 'Three Perspectives,' airing at 8:35 AM on the 19th.