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Skin gets thinner,
drier and less elastic. Muscles shrink. Bones decrease in
strength and density. The heart shrinks and beats at a
slower rate, as the systolic blood pressure tends to rise.
Joints start to stiffen, and discs in the spine begin to
degenerate.
Metabolism slows
as does the function of the immune system. Brain function
declines if not used. Bladder and reproductive systems
don’t function as well when musculature and hormones
diminish. The senses aren’t as keen. Food moves slower
through the digestive system. Healing happens slowly, and
regenerative capacity is decreased.
There are many
theories as to why we age, some outlandish. We do know,
though, that aging is a tightly regulated process. It is a
combination of genetics, and environmental influences.
You’ve most likely
heard of free radicals; those substances that cause cell
damage and a host of other ailments. The very process of
chemical reactions and metabolism in our bodies that allows
us to live is the very process that creates free radicals as
a by-product. It is these harmful free radicals that cause
damage in our internal environments and accelerate the aging
process.
External
environmental influences can also be harmful. Our diets,
cigarette smoking, pollution, pesticides and other chemical
exposures affect us as well. Genetic influences account for
about 25 to 30 percent of how we age. In current research,
gene mutations have been identified and associated with
longevity and aging.
If our genes account
for 25-30 percent of the way we age, then the other 70-75
percent is environmental.
What can be done to
slow the aging process? Take control where and when you
can. Number one – exercise. Even 15-30 minutes per day is
beneficial. Exercise helps to decrease fat, cholesterol and
triglycerides, blood pressure, joint pain and arthritis,
osteoporosis, and stress. Regular exercise also helps to
increase lean muscle, endurance, and mood.
Next, eat more raw or
minimally cooked fruits and vegetables. They are high in
anti-aging nutrients, and antioxidants which fight those
free radicals. Choose organic produce which is locally
grown. Cleanse all produce to remove pesticides and
preservatives. Include more nuts and nut oils in your diet.
There is evidence
that dietary restriction (1200 calories) without
malnutrition and supplemented with vitamins and minerals can
have health benefits and extend average and maximum lifespan
by delaying age-related traits and diseases, and decreasing
risks of cancers.
Limit exposure to the
sun’s ultra violet rays which can damage skin and cause the
appearance of increased age. Long-term sun exposure
increases the risk of skin cancers and cataracts. Avoid
cigarette smoke. Keep your brain active. Live a life of
purpose and passion. Other influences that affect aging are
climate, access to healthcare, hygiene, crime, behavior,
mental health status and even the area of the country in
which you live.
Overall life
expectancy in the US is 78.6 years. The oldest recorded age
of death in modern times was a woman in France who died in
1997 at the age of 122. You can live to a ripe old age, but
I would take the liberty of assuming you want to live in
health, full of vibrancy with a clear mind and all your
senses.
The top 10 causes of
death in the 65 to 74 age group all have preventable risk
factors, made possible by adopting healthy lifestyle
habits. It’s never too late to make even one change to
improve your lifestyle, health, and longevity.
Contact Dianne Pettis at
Diannepettis22@gmail.com or 724-375-7519 |
