Unlocking Stress Coping Mechanisms: Implications for Salivary Antioxidant Defense and Trace Element Homeostasis

This study investigates the relationship between stress coping ability, salivary antioxidant capacity (AOC), and trace element concentrations, focusing on zinc (Zn) and potassium (K). A cohort of 73 participants, divided into groups based on stress coping ability (SCA) ("adaptive", "intermediate", and "maladaptive"), underwent cognitive tasks while physiological and behavioral data were collected. Saliva samples were analyzed for AOC and trace elements, including Zn, K, total phosphorus (P), and total sulfur (S). Results revealed that individuals with effective stress coping strategies (the "adaptive" group) exhibited significantly higher AOC and Zn levels, along with lower K levels, compared to those with maladaptive coping abilities. Positive correlations were observed between Zn and AOC, while K showed a negative correlation with AOC. Behavioral data indicated that the "maladaptive" group demonstrated a pronounced decline in self-assessment as task difficulty increased, despite similar task performance across groups. These findings suggest that stress coping ability is a stable trait influencing physiological homeostasis, with effective coping associated with enhanced antioxidant defenses and balanced trace element regulation. The study highlights the importance of stress management in maintaining oxidative balance and emotional resilience, offering potential pathways for interventions targeting stress-related physiological and cognitive dysregulation.