ASk eXpeRt: How SloW AginG

We “age” for many reasons, some of us faster than others. Here are 5 methods to slow down the aging process:

1. Reduce Inflammation

Caused by an immune response, inflammation is the body’s reaction to an invader or irritant. Here are some ways to reduce inflammation:

• Eliminate irritants in your diet (such as sugar)
  
• Eat healthy fats
  
• Get enough sleep
  
• Avoiding environmental exposures (sunlight and smoking)
  

Using these techniques, we can slow down many of the effects of aging. Low-grade inflammation has been linked to wrinkles, cancer, diabetes, heart disease and many other health problems.


2. Lifestyle
It is no secret that we control a big part of how our bodies function. We accelerate the aging process if we:

• smoke
  
• eat poorly
  
• drink alcohol heavily
  
• don’t exercise
  
• get overstressed
  
• don’t sleep enough
  

We can do ourselves a big favor by doing an “inventory” of our life to see where we can improve our lifestyle and keep our body function the best that it can for the long term.

3. Hormones

Many of the hormones that keep us functioning at our peak decline as we age. These include:

• estrogen
  
• progesterone
  
• testosterone
  
• DHEA
  
• thyroid
  
• human growth hormone
  

some experts claim that by supplementing these hormones as we age, we can slow down the aging process and improve health. However, this approach is controversial and has been linked with other health problems (for example, estrogen replacement therapy has been linked to cardiovascular events and breast cancer). Any hormone therapy must be overseen by a physician.

4. Antioxidants

Antioxidants protect us against free-radicals, which are often considered the main culprit in the aging process. Antioxidants such as:

• vitamins A, C, E
  
• glutathione
  

alpha lipoic acid can help protect cells. It is best to work with a qualified professional before starting on a program of supplements.

5. Detoxification

Closely linked to the ideas behind reducing inflammation, detoxification strives to rid the body of toxins and restore equilibrium. This can be done in many ways, including through diet and exercise.

Source: NewBeauty Magazine, Fall/Winter 2006