Aging

Aging is the gradual process of maturation from childhood into adulthood, which then turns to a decline in middle life an advanced age. There are five primary causes of aging: Glycation ( progressive damage to the body caused by high blood sugar per Dr. Andrew Weil) ; Chronic subclinical Inflammation( this is the underlying causes of a number of diseases  and is an increasing threat to our health as the aging process diminishes the body’s defense mechanisms against  it; poor diet and lifestyle choices contribute); Oxidation(molecules with unstable oxygen atoms that have given up one of their electrons during energy release are called free radicals);Methylation( process whereby some genes are activated and others are turned off during one’s lifetime-high levels of cortisol are known to interfere with the efficiency so stress reduction is important); Telomere Reduction( repeating sequences of DNA at the end of chromosomes that regulate in a fixed manner how many times a body cell will divide-chromosomes that can’t divide cause cell aging and death-exercising, eating a healthy diet with lots of fruits and veggies, keeping a normal weight, and controlling inflammation have all been shown to be associated with longer telomeres and longer life spans).

According to Dr. Michele Eslami , Department of geriatrics, UCLA school of medicine “genetics do play a role and sometimes so does luck; but in my experience, patients who have led healthy lifestyles-no smoking, not overweight, I knew she did regular exercise, travel, regular reading, and even those who continue working past the normal retirement age-seem to age more successfully”.

Over 60% of all deaths are due to  preventable diseases: heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. It is important to understand that the risk factors for these 4 diseases include lifestyle choices. The information provided so far is based on a continuing education class that I attended titled "Successful Aging in Men & Women".

“It Has Nothing to Do with Age “focus is on living a healthy lifestyle. The individuals, I interviewed, certainly support that notion. In reading this book, the reader will get insight into the lifestyles of these seniors. Hopefully, these models will provide information as well as inspiration. It is important to step away from our electronics generated society into the world of nature. It seems that many of us have  lost that balance in how we live our life. We need to be more active especially in the outdoors as we age.

For those wanting another technique in relaxation an article in the Wall Street Journal, April 5, 2011 had a picture of a mat with nail like plastic spikes. Team Shakti AB of Sweden puts 6000 spikes on its main mat. Apparently, by lying down with face up with the spikes in contact with your back and neck for 5 to 10 minutes, an individual can relieve stress, in neck, back, and even reduce insomnia. Those of you that are interested find that article on page D4. This product might be a good way to reduce your cortisol levels.