You Can Age Fast or You Can Age Slow

There are three primary conditions that appear to be major factors in aging. They are chronic inflammation, oxidative stress and DNA damage. Many factors contribute to these conditions to include processed, sugary and fatty foods; pesticides; chemicals; pollutants; and so forth. As we get the toxins out (and keep them out) and nurture ourselves, aging symptoms can often be reduced.

Chronic Inflammation: This condition can contribute to cellular damage causing aging and age-related diseases. Contributing factors include toxins, trauma, stress, allergens, infections, etc. Also, a diet heavy in processed sugary and high protein foods produces inflammation. Immunodeficiency, a condition where the immune response is reduced or absent, impedes the body's ability to handle inflammation properly.

Oxidative Stress: Free radicals are unstable oxygen atoms and naturally occur in the body. However, high levels of free radicals attack our cell structure causing cell death and aging. This oxidative stress causes fruit to turn brown and shrivel up. A few factors that contribute to high levels of free radicals are heavy metals, toxins, pesticides, ionizing radiation, alcohol, cigarette smoke and foods high in fat and sugar.

DNA Damage: Natural gene mutation, free radicals and environmental factors can contribute to DNA damage. The cell copies its DNA in preparation for cell division. Damaged DNA produces damaged cells, X-rays, toxins, stress, malnutrition, cigarette smoke, ultraviolet light, and low-level magnetic fields emitted by household products such as electric blankets and blow dryers, are some of the environmental factors that can damage DNA.

Ideal Lifestyles Spring 2008