Aging makes the body more vulnerable to disease. There are many theories on aging and its causes. Some of the more prominent theories are:
Theories on Aging:
Stem Cell Theory - As we age, we begin losing stem cells from the reserve we've had from birth. Therefore as we age the bodies ability to repair, heal, and generate new tissue diminishes, and we begin to accumulate more and more dysfunctional cells as time passes. Aging is the accumulation of these dysfunctional cells, and the damage they cause to organs, skin, the muscles, the immune system, and every other system in the body. This damage can only be undone by the addition of new stem cells.
Cell Metabolic Theory - Nutrition has an effect on the way cells divide. Caloric restrictions, according to one animal study, increases life span by changing the rate at which cells divide. In a separate study, it was concluded that restrictions on caloric intake primarily slowed down the aging process by an associated decrease in oxygen free-radicals produced by the mitochondria.
Telomere Theory - Cells in the body are eventually replaced by the division of other cells. The amount of times a cell is able to divide before it dies is approximately 50 times. It is hypothesized that the mechanism that controls this cell division is a caplike structure on the end of each of the twenty-three pairs of chromosomes. This caplike structure is known as the Telomere. Every time a cell divides the telomere shortens . This constant shortening of the telomere means that after a certain number of divisions the telomere disappears, and the end of the chromosome begins to fray and stops dividing, leading to the death of the cell. Over time, this cumulative cell death leads to aging.
Immune Theory - Our immune systems effectiveness gradually declines as we age. The thymus gland, which is responsible for the creation of T cells, can decrease its functionality by eighty percent as we reach middle age. Therefore as we age the immune system is less able to produce antibodies, natural killer (NK) cells, and T cells that the body needs to fend off infections and other diseases. Also as we age the immune system has an increased tendency to produce antibodies against the body itself. This is responsible for a number of autoimmune diseases.
Free Radical (Oxidation) Theory - Unrepaired cumulative cell damage, caused by free radicals, created from a normal metabolism, and contributed to by outside forces, is the cause for aging. Outside sources such as, radiation, pollution, tobacco, alcohol, and toxins, can increase the amount of free radicals in our bodies. This free radical damage can accumulate in the body, converting other molecules into free-radicals in a chain of free-radical accumulation that is the cause for aging.
Neuroendocrine Theory - The pituitary gland and hypothalamus regulate the release of important hormones that influence cell metabolism, immune function, protein synthesis, and the biochemical functioning of all bodily cells. Over time the hypothalamus loses its ability to regulate all these important functions. Since the secretion of hormones gradually decreases over time, it is believed that this decrease in hormone production may lead to aging.
DNA/Genetic Theory - The DNA we possess contains a genetic blueprint handed down generation after generation. This genetic code is unique, and determines a number of factors affecting aging. Events that happen during our lifetime may damage DNA, such as exposure to toxins, pollutants, free-radicals, radiation, our diet, and many other environmental and lifestyle factors can effect the ability of our body to repair DNA damage. This genetic damage can cause the production of abnormal proteins, which leads to ineffective cell repair, loss of cell elasticity, and many other symptoms of the aging process.
Anti-Aging Supplement and their Functions:
- Alpha Lipoic Acid - A powerful antioxidant that aids in proper blood sugar maintenance and liver function.
- Carnosine - Offers protection against cross-linking, which creates AGE's.
- CoEnzyme Q10 - Helps circulation and improves cellular oxygenation.
- DMG - Improves cellular oxygenation
- Glutathione - A free radical scavenger, and potent mental booster that acts as a move elevator. Destroys ammonia, which may interfere with brain function.
- Inositol - A powerful antioxidant with many health benefits.
- Kyolic - A powerful cell protector, and antioxidant.
- Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids - Plays an important role in cell formation. Essential fatty acids are essential for proper brain function, protect the heart and helps control plaque adhering to the arteries.
- Grape Seed Extract - A potent free radical scavenger with the ability to pass the blood-brain barrier protecting brain cells.
- Superoxide dismutase (SOD) - A potent free-radical destroying antioxidant.
- Taurine - A building block for all amino acids. Taurine also improves white blood cell function.
- Vitamin C - An antioxidant and immune system enhancer which can fight fatigue, and keeps white blood cells healthy, increasing the immune systems effectiveness.
- Boron - Improves brain function, and aids in calcium absorption.
- Calcium - Necessary for the prevention of bone loss and for normal heart function.
- Chromium Picolinate - Improves insulin efficiency, maintaining the health of the glands which control aging.
- Lecithin - Increases brain function and improves memory. Guards nervous system cells from damage
- 5-Hydroxy L-Tryptophan (5-HTP) - An important neurotransmitter
- Phosphatidyl Serine - Improves brain function.
- Lutein - Protects the retina from macular degeneration.
- SAMe - Reduces stress and depression, giving a sense of well-being.
- Zinc - Increases the antibodies present and protects eyes against vision loss. Very important nutrient for the prostate.
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