The Science Behind Aging
We all get old someday. But the loss of mobility, memory, and wellness that most of us associate with aging doesn’t have to impact you as much as you think. Keep reading to learn more about the science behind aging – and what you can do to age vibrantly.
Aging And Oxidative Stress
Longevity depends upon cellular metabolism and the control of ROS byproducts. ROS byproducts, or free radicals, are created through your body’s natural processes. Free radicals are natural, and the body usually neutralizes them by producing antioxidants. But when free radicals outnumber antioxidants, oxidative stress occurs.
Oxidative stress can lead to widespread inflammation, fatigue, headaches, and more. This wear-and-tear on the body can speed up aging.
Metabolism, Molecules, and Aging
Cellular metabolism is measured by certain energy molecules and regulators. Namely, the molecules adenosine monophosphate (AMP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and AMPK are involved. Adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) is very important to health and healthy aging.
Nutrient sensing pathways are a major class of conserved (evolutionarily) lifespan regulators. Calorie restriction, insulin, insulin-like growth factor signaling and target of rapamycin (TOR) signaling are important nutrient sensing pathways and molecules.
It is important to maintain adenosine nucleotide derivatives (AMP, ADP, ATP and AMPK) at constant levels for longevity. AMP:ATP ratios seem especially predictive for longevity of your cells, which translates into your overall longevity.
For example, AMPK is the most important regulator of metabolic homeostasis, which keeps your body’s processes “in check/in balance.” When homeostasis is weakened, this increases your risk of illness and is responsible for the changes within your body associated with aging.
AMPK senses the energy levels and then coordinates enzymes and transcription factors to change the metabolism between energy use and energy conservation as needed. AMPK is a highly conserved molecule that is very much associated with longevity.
How Intermittent Fasting Is Anti-Aging
Much evidence is proving that the health-promoting effects of time-controlled feeding and intermittent fasting can be reproduced with certain medications, supplements and specific dietary restrictions. Protein restriction, methionine restriction and even alternate day fasting have helped.
To regulate lifespan and healthspan, attention must be paid to the balance of nutrients within your diet. Fasting alone isn’t going to improve your health, if you aren’t giving your body the essential vitamins and minerals it needs to functions when you break your fast.
If you and your doctor decide that intermittent fasting is right for you, it’s important to eat a diet that is filled with healthy, whole foods – like the Mediterranean diet. Click below to watch Dr. Warner’s seminar on the Mediterranean diet:
At Warner Orthopedics & Wellness, our goal is to help you age vibrantly. It’s possible to age well, without debilitating pain and inflammation slowing you down. The better you understand the science behind aging, the more you will know about combating its effects.
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