PROPOLIS AND OXIDATIVE STRESS IN ATHLETES: A NATURAL DEFENSE STRATEGY

High-intensity physical exercise enhances athletic performance but can trigger exacerbated oxidative stress, resulting in cellular damage and premature fatigue. This study consisted of an integrative literature review conducted using the PubMed, SciELO, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases (covering the period 2015–2025), aiming to analyze the protective role of propolis against oxidative stress and inflammation in athletes. Based on the synthesis of 15 eligible articles, it was found that propolis supplementation—particularly the Brazilian green variant rich in Artepillin C—significantly reduces the cellular damage markers malondialdehyde and 8-OHdG. This effect occurs through the direct neutralization of free radicals and the stimulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GPx, and CAT) via activation of the Nrf2/ARE pathway. Additionally, propolis modulates the inflammatory response induced by physical exertion by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, thereby decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α) and increasing IL-10. Clinically, these mechanisms attenuate delayed-onset muscle soreness, preserve mitochondrial function, and improve metabolic efficiency. It is concluded that propolis represents a safe and promising phytotherapeutic adjunct for redox management in sports, although further randomized controlled trials are recommended to establish dosage and duration protocols.