Aging Theories
The Oxidation Reaction Theory of Aging
Oxidation is a process where atoms or molecules combine with oxygen. Combustion is an example of oxidation reaction. Whenever oxidation reaction takes place with metals like iron, rust is formed as a byproduct. When oxidation reaction occurs in people, it is what we call aging. Inside the human body, there are free radicals or molecules that are missing one electron. If an oxygen molecule loses one electron, it becomes a single oxygen atom that needs one electron. The single oxygen atom would try to steal or donate its electron on a nearby molecule. In this way, free radicals disrupt the normal function of a cell. If DNA is near a free radical, mutation occurs. Over a period of several years, free radical damage accumulates inside the body which causes aging. Free radicals can be also ingested by smoking, ingesting certain foods, polluted water and air, exposure to x-rays and other poisons.
The Sub-Optimal Hormone Level Theory of Aging
As we grow old, some hormones that are very important for the maintenance of healthy cells. When we grow old, some hormones start a steep decline which marks the beginning of the visible signs of aging. Hormones that decline with age include human growth hormone, melatonin, DHEA, androstenedione (testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone. The levels of insulin also rises as we age, this causes diabetes in older people. There is also an increase in the stress hormone cortisol which causes the muscles to wither. Human growth hormone which is necessary for the growth of tissues slows down as we age. Testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone have other important purpose. They give us sex drive; helps build muscle, health skin tone, makes strong bone and keep our mind sharp
Anti-Aging Supplements
1. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) – this is a hormone that is made from the adrenal glands and it is the precursor to testosterone and estrogen. DHEA levels drops significantly in aging men and women. Supplementation of DHEA may be beneficial to aging people.
2. Testosterone – testosterone is the hormone responsible for the sex drive in both men and women. This hormone also declines with age in both sexes. Testosterone is very important in the maintenance of muscle mass and bone density. Testosterone can be applied as a topical cream or as an oral supplement to augment the low levels of testosterone in the body.
3. Estrogen and Progesterone – these are the female steroid hormones that maintains the bone density, sexual function and mental function in women. Estrogen supplementation helps in countering the effects of menopause. Plant derived estrogens or phytoestrogens maybe a weaker alternative but it is safer than the standard estrogen supplement.
4. Melatonin – this is a hormone that the pineal gland produces. Melatonin is a very potent antioxidant and it is given off at night to induce sleep. Research says that it is important to maintain youthful levels of melatonin to protect ourselves from age-related degenerative diseases. Melatonin levels decline as we age.
5. Pregnenolone – also known as the mother hormone because some of the most important hormones like estrogen and testosterone is derived from pregnenolone.
6. B Complex Vitamins ( Folic Acid, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 ) – heart disease is the number one killer of both men and women. High levels of homocysteine in the body can lead to cardiovascular disease. Folic acid, Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 helps to reduce the levels of homocysteine in the body.
7. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – needed for the proper function of mitochondria which is the powerhouse of the cell. It also regulates fat oxidation and the conversion of sugar into energy. Older humans have 50% less CoQ10 compared to young adults.
8. Acetyl-L-carnitine Arginate – acetyl-l-carnitine helps in increasing the energy production of mitochondria. acetyl-L-carnitine arginate is another form which can stimulate the growth of brain neurites.
9. Carnosine – the level of carnosine in muscle declines by 63% from age 10 to age 70. Carnosine helps protect the muscle membranes from being oxidized in acidic conditions. Carnosine also helps slow down the glycation process which damages the proteins of the body. Glycation is responsible for age related disease like nerve,vascular and eye damage.
10.Fish Oil – fish oil can help reduce the incidence of heart disease. Fish oil reduces triglycerides in the body.
11. Green Tea Extract – this can help maintain the integrity of cellular DNA and the cell membraine. Green tea extract also contains powerful oxidants like cactechins and flavonols. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the most powerful catechin that is found in green tea. EGCG has an antioxidant function that is 25-100 times more potent than vitamins C and E.
12. Lipoic Acid – this is another power antioxidant which counter free radical damage in the mitochondria. In theory, extra amounts of antioxidant inside the mitochondria can help slow down the aging process. Lipoic acid also helps reduce the damage caused by the glycation process.
13. L-Alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine (GPC) – protects the decline in cognitive function during aging.
14. Calorie Restriction – a low calorie diet that is rich in nutrients can dramatically extend the life span of humans.
Anti-aging products
1. Botox – a small dose of botox can be used to prevent wrinkles by paralyzing the muscle tissues. The wrinkle preventing effect of botox would usually last for about 3-4 months.
2. Chemical peels – glyolic acid is usually used to exfoliate the skin.
3. Retinoids – this is a vitamin-A derivative which stimulates the skin to produce younger and healthier looking skin cells. The old skin cells are shed off while the new skin is put on the surface.
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