Since SOD neutralizes this particular free radical, it is considered a strong antioxidant. This antioxidant capability allows SOD to have a few different effects including: reducing inflammation and potentially preventing the physical signs of aging.

SOD and Inflammation
SOD can act as a potent anti-inflammatory molecule in the human body. White blood cells release large amounts of superoxide to neutralize deleterious bacteria present in the tissues. This is a useful adaptive response that can sometimes go awry in cases of inflammation caused by conditions such as arthritis or autoimmune disease. When this occurs, the white blood cells release superoxide in these areas of inflammation and cause local destruction of the tissue. This leads to more inflammation and a continuation of the destructive cycle. SOD can help to break this cycle by disassembling the superoxide, thus preventing further inflammation and tissue destruction. In Europe, SOD is frequently used to treat osteoarthritis, and sports injuries.

SOD and Aging
It has been put forward that the potent antioxidant power of SOD could help to reduce the physical signs of aging. There is very little research on the supplementation of SOD for this purpose. It is generally accepted that increased intake of antioxidants, and a reduction in systemic inflammation are both powerful ways to reduce the cellular damage that causes physical aging, but more research is required before anti-aging claims can be proven.

How do I take SOD?
All clinical trials involving the use of SOD had it administered via intravenous or injection. There is very little data available on the use of oral supplementation. Because of this, there is no recommended dosage available. It is advisable to follow the manufacturers suggested dosing on the label of each supplement.

Important Information
SOD has been found to be a remarkably safe compound for both ingestion and injection. There are no studies on the use of SOD during pregnancy and breast-feeding so use should be avoided during these times. Some studies have found that SOD may not be absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and also found that some supplements do not contain the amounts of active SOD that they claim to have. Be careful and purchase SOD only from a company that you trust.