A few months ago, I blogged about Telomeres, and how keeping them healthy are vital they to the aging process. This month, in Dr. Whitaker’s Health & Healing issue, validates what I reported.
To recap, Telomeres are at the end of your genes (about 20,000 genes reside on 23 pairs of chromosomes on the nucleus of each and every one of your cells), and they are responsible for keeping your chromosomes from being damaged each time a cell divides. As a result of that cell division, Telomeres shorten a little bit each time. Over time, they get shorter and shorter, and after about 50 cell divisions, they wear away, leading to cell death. If enough cells die, the organ also says bye-bye-many of the age-related diseases are associated with Telomere shortening. Telomere length, measured in white blood cell count, is used as a marker of aging.
So what’s the good news? Research shows that it is possible to slow and even reverse Telomere wear and tear, perhaps even staving off the effects of premature aging! In other words, YOU can do something about how you age!!!
CHronic inflammation and free radical damage cause the most damage to Telomeres. Smoking, heavy drinking, and obesity also cause major problems. However, adopting a healthy lifestyle can slow Telomere degradation. Diet and exercise to the rescue, but I’m sure you knew that already. You have an option, and I love options. Diet and exercise or not. Plain and simple-you make the call.
Vitamins C, D, and E, omega-3 fats, turmeric powder, astragalus, and grape seed polyphenols can also provide a boost.
Have at it…..
Stay well, John R Blilie, M.S.