Abstract
OBJECTIVE: Stress is a hazardous occurrence that causes a variety of physiological and behavioral responses in a person. It increases energy metabolism and enhances oxidative stress, both of which are implicated in the pathophysiology of several diseases. Numerous vitamins and minerals have the ability to modulate oxidative stress. The present investigation aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a multivitamin-mineral (MM) supplement in addressing oxidative imbalances caused by chronic stress in the plasma, hepatic, and renal tissues of Swiss albino mice. METHODS: Thirty healthy male Swiss albino mice were randomly assigned to one of the three groups, with 10 animals each: control, unpredictable chronic stress (UCS), and MM + UCS. The experiment lasted for four weeks, after which all the animals underwent cervical decapitation, and samples of their blood, liver, and kidney were taken for biochemical studies. DNA damage analysis was performed on lymphocytes. RESULTS: Exposure to UCS negatively affected all biochemical markers, as indicated by reduced levels of antioxidants (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione S-transferase, glutathione reductase, and reduced glutathione) in the plasma, liver, and kidney tissues, along with enhanced levels of lipid peroxidation and marker enzymes. MM supplementation normalized the deranged biochemical markers in stress-exposed mice. The results of DNA damage supported the biochemical findings mentioned above. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that MM supplementation could help reduce oxidative disturbances caused by stress in both healthy and diseased conditions.