Unlocking the Benefits of Antioxidants Beta Carotene and Quercetin Potential for Female Health

Oxidative stress is a key biological process, which is involved in the pathogenesis and evolution of many female-specific health issues and is caused by the active hormonal regulation, reproductive needs and endocrine alterations throughout the female lifespan. Antioxidants are very important in the maintenance of redox homeostasis and the elimination of oxidative damage thus maintaining physiological equilibrium and prevention of disease. The scientific interest has focused on β-carotene and quercetin as natural antioxidants amid the list of the most potent antioxidants, on the one hand, and anti-inflammatory, hormone-modulatory properties, on the other hand, of the most basic antioxidant compounds in nature present in diet. This review offers the general discussion of the chemistry, dietary sources, metabolism, and bioavailability of β-carotene and quercetin, and their specific application in female physiology and health results. Their biological action mechanisms, such as the free-radical scavenging, the regulation of the endogenous antioxidant defenses and the inflammatory pathway modulation and the influence on estrogenian signals are of utmost importance. Moreover, there is a discussion in relation to the role of these antioxidants in female specific conditions like reproductive disorders, pregnancy related oxidative stress, heart disease, osteoporosis, endometriosis, and health issues related to menopause. The new findings of the synergistic activity of β-carotene and quercetin, both in a dietary system and in nutraceutical systems, are also considered, as well as the results of preclinical and clinical research. Taken altogether, the accessible data indicate that these antioxidants have a great potential as the elements of preventive and supportive measures concerning female health. Combining the existing knowledge in science, the presented review underlines the significance of the antioxidant consumption patterns and provides a future view of the use of gender-specific nutritional and therapeutic programs to enhance the health and quality of life of women.