Aging is the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors: DNA shortening, oxidative stress, glycation... Here we take a look at the aging process, its causes, and the ways in which we can slow it down.
Aging is a natural process – the body is genetically programd to age. There is a finite number of times that our cells can divide and replicate. Each time they do so, the telomeres of our chromosomes get shorter – these are the protective tips at the end of each strand of DNA.
There is a limit to a cell’s ability to cope with this shortening, beyond which cellular DNA ceases to replicate, and along with it, the cell. Once this critical length is reached, the process of cell death is triggered. The cell undergoes a morphological change, mobilising the immune system, which ensures the cell is eliminated. Cell death leads more broadly to tissue death, and the body suffers progressive damage. This is part of the body’s natural cycle, but there are other mechanisms which account for premature aging.
Oxidative stress is often highlighted as a damaging process for the body, but what is the mechanism behind it?
The process of oxidation which takes place in cells results in the formation of unstable molecules that contain unpaired electrons. These molecules, called free radicals, try to restore their stability by stealing an electron from another molecule. This triggers a rapid chain reaction, which the body is not always equipped to deal with.
The body has a range of natural antioxidant compounds at its disposal which are able to neutralize these free radicals. They include glutathione, enzymes (peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase...), and vitamins C and E... But when these antioxidant reserves are inadequate, free radical attacks turn into oxidative stress. Along with the accompanying chain reaction, oxidative stress leads to the denaturation of proteins, lipids, and indeed all the molecules that form the body and make it function. Organs, skin, the nervous and cardiovascular systems, the whole body is affected by oxidative stress, and the result is premature aging.
While oxidation occurs naturally in the body, a number of external factors are known to exacerbate oxidative stress. They include smoking, alcohol, a diet low in fruit and vegetables, pollution, UV rays, and stress...
The process of glycation is of increasing interest to researchers investigating aging. It is a mechanism whereby sugars bind to proteins, creating glycated proteins.
It occurs at a greater rate when the body is overloaded with sugar, which is why it is seen more in diabetics. Glycated proteins ultimately produce what are called advanced glycation end-products or AGE: these play a role in premature aging. They cause structural changes, particularly in cutaneous tissues, resulting in a slackening of the skin.
They also damage blood vessel walls, muscle cells and white blood cells... In short, the whole body is affected by excessive glycation. What’s more, AGE are not broken down by the body. Eliminating them is left to the kidneys but they cannot cope with excessive glycation and this leads to the accumulation of harmful residues. It’s another cascade of reactions that promotes premature aging.
We’re all familiar with the consequences of aging. They can be visible: deep lines and wrinkles, a bent spine, grey hair... and they can also be less obvious but pathological: cancer, neurodegenerative disorders and cardiovascular disease...
In order to slow down the aging process, it naturally makes sense to adopt a sensible lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet high in antioxidants, taking regular exercise, and ensuring you get good quality sleep will all help to reduce oxidative stress and excessive glycation. It is also highly advisable to reduce alcohol consumption and refrain from smoking.
You can go further by taking compounds called senolytics. These molecules are currently being studied by scientists keen to learn more about their ability to slow down cellular aging. Some of these natural compounds are already well-known:
Senolytic-based, anti-aging supplements (such as Senolytic Complex and Fisetin) can also provide valuable support in fighting premature aging naturally.
The polyphenol content of fruits and vegetables is one of the main reasons these foods are so good for our health. But which contain the most? And can you guess which one takes the no. 1 spot?
Glycation is a silent but powerful chemical reaction that plays a key role in the aging process. Find out exactly what’s involved in this ‘spontaneous caramelisation’ of the body, and how to curb it.
Do you want to delay the negative effects of aging and stay fit and healthy for as long as possible, to get the most out of life and time spent with loved ones? Discover senolytics, the ultimate weapon for fighting the aging process.
A superfruit used for more than 2000 years in traditional Chinese medicine, the goji berry has become increasingly popular in the West because of its high content of vitamins and antioxidants. Discover its various benefits.
Calorie restriction consists of reducing your food intake, compensating for any potential deficiencies by taking supplements. Aside from its slimming effects, calorie restriction is now being studied primarily for its ability to prolong life expectancy.
A senescent cell is one whose life cycle has come to a permanent end. In the normal scheme of things, such cells are eliminated from the body by the immune system. But in some cases, this fails to happen and they accumulate in tissues, with potentially serious consequences for health.