Anti Aging

While people roam the world looking for the “quick fix” or the “magic bullet” for combating aging, many fail to realize that the most important ingredient is one that is in our lives multiple times per day: our diet. What you eat is an incredibly important factor for fighting the physical effects of aging. A healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants will keep your internal body healthy and will also help to promote healthy, clear skin that will return a more youthful look into your life.

Aging is not only skin deep, rather it affects the whole body. Memory loss, organ problems, decreased brain function, bone and cardiovascular disease, etc., are all compliments of the aging process. When planning out your personal anti-aging process you will obviously want to address all of these issues. Thankfully, your diet is the best way to fight all aspects of aging at once.

While planning out your own anti-aging diet, be sure to target fruits, vegetables, green tea, and other foods that are high in vitamins and anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants are arguably the most important key for the anti-aging process. Not only do these amazing little parts of our body gobble up unhealthy free radicals in our system, they also help to clear the skin by fighting wrinkles and preventing excess oil buildup that can damage the skin.

Other important vitamins to include in your diet are the vitamins A, B, C, E, and K. All of these vitamins are extremely important in relation to the health of your skin, and therefore the anti-aging process. Researches from dermatologists have proven that each of these vitamins is necessary for healthy skin, so be sure to include healthy amounts of each in your dieting plan.

Next time you are in the doctor’s office or speaking with a dermatologist, speak with them about your desire to eat a healthier diet and what foods would be good for maintaining a healthy body and healthy skin. They can make great recommendations for your personal diet to help get you on the right track.

Combining a healthy diet with anti-aging creams such as anti-aging face cream is the best way to fight aging in your life. Anti-aging creams are safe and effective ways for helping to heal and keep your skin healthy and youthful.

Peoples’ preoccupation with anti-aging skin care products that claim to make you look younger is not surprising; reducing the visible signs of aging is the goal for many people as they grow older, and why shouldn’t it be? This group of beauty products generally works by enabling the synthesis of collagen, the main protein of connective tissue in animals and the most abundant in our body; collagen is so abundant, it makes up about a quarter of the total protein content of structural protein found in skin. Most anti-ageing products (collagen included) fall into a category of natural everyday products we all use; called antioxidants, they help flush out toxins from the body and help reduce the signs of aging.

Vitamin C is probably one of the better known anti-oxidants in use today but the debate about the daily quota required is ongoing. Unfortunately all skin care treatments that use vitamin C have the problem of atmospheric oxidization to contend with once the product is exposed to the air.

Other skin care treatments which mimic the effects of vitamin C are being tried all the time which are hoped to be more stable in the atmosphere and also cheaper to produce. Unfortunately the anti-oxidant products used to replace vitamin C are not as effective but as vitamin E and lipoic acid can both have the same effect; this is not too much of a problem.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant and component of human blood whose purpose is to help increase the body’s immune system; one particular disease it may help to prevent is certain types of cancer. Lipoic acid, which is found inside every cell of the body, helps generate the energy that keeps us alive and functioning; it can help reverse much of the damage caused to the skin by aging.

Other compounds called phytochemicals have proved to be beneficial in the formulation of anti-aging skin care products; they are removed from various plants. A further benefit of these phytochemicals is their ability to prevent the onset of certain cancers; for instance:

·Cancer that attacks the Prostate
·Breast Cancer in Women (and occasionally men)
·Cancer that attacks the Colon

These three types of cancer are also becoming a global problem.

For some time now it has also been known that the vitamins B5, B6 and B12 also have anti-aging skin care properties. Although the area of anti-aging skin care products is huge, more is being learnt about the whole aging process and about natural products that can reduce the effects it has on our bodies as well as our skin. Whilst a great deal has been learned about this subject, it is only the tip of the iceberg; more long term effective methods will eventually be found to reverse or slow down the effects of aging.

In time it is hoped that less expensive and more reliable anti-aging skin care products will become available for a larger number of people to use. Scientific research into anti-aging products is still in the early stages but they should never be relied upon; we must not forget however, that there are many more natural methods we can all use to reduce the signs of aging on a regular basis. Drinking plenty of water, getting a good night’s sleep, exercising regularly, maintaining healthy eating habits and keeping stress at bay are an essential means of delaying the aging process.

Anti-oxidants are the protective force that fight against free radicals. Anti aging vitamins assist by increasing the intake of anti-oxidants.

Anti aging vitamins are necessary for fighting free radicals that cause oxidative stress and the aging process. A free radical is an unstable molecule which runs amok, puncturing cell membranes, destroying enzymes and weakening arteries. They do occur naturally but are also generated by UV radiation, environmental pollutants and food additives to name a few.

There are two methods of countering aging and degenerative diseases (both free radical based).

1. Limiting free radical exposure. (another topic)

2. Increasing the intake of anti-oxidants using anti-aging vitamins.

Although the key anti-oxidants overlap they all have special skills so a variety is required.

Note if you are taking any type of medication, seek medical advice before using anti ageing vitamins.

The six essential anti-aging vitamins are;

Vitamin C

- This powerhouse anti-oxidant is the workhorse of the detox system, invariably under-supplied, anti aging vitamin c lowers blood pressure, boosts the immune system, fights colds an flu, increases sperm production and is a great cancer fighter.

This water soluble blood specialist must be buffered (buffered vitamin C offers the same benefits of regular vitamin C and is ideal for those with sensitive stomachs. Buffered vitamin C contains small amounts of calcium, magnesium and potassium to help with digestion and provide the “buffering” effect) and should always contain bioflavonoids. (One of the main activities of bioflavonoids is to scavenge free radicals.

Vitamin E

- Vitamins supplements act as a powerful antioxidant by neutralizing free radicals in the body that cause tissue and cellular damage. Helps to prevent hardening of the blood arteries, maintains healthy formation of red blood cells, helps repair cell damage and skin repair.

Combine Vitamin E with Vitamin C to maintain healthy Circulatory System,

Vitamin A

- Also has antioxidant properties that neutralize free radicals in the body that cause tissue and cellular damage, also called retinol, helps keep your eyes, skin and mucous membranes moist. It also plays an important role in proper bone formation, reproduction and vision.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

- ALP is often called the master anti-oxidant as it recycles vitamins C+E. Helps control blood sugar and cholesterol, detox the liver and protect from cataracts.

CoEnzyme Q10

- Another key anti aging vitamin, Increases circulation, supports heart health. Millions of Japanese are prescribed this nutrient as a mainstay in the treatment of heart disease.

Grape seed Extract

- Derived from grape seed extract Grape seed contains powerful phytomedicines that provide multiple benefits to the body, including pain relief, anti-inflammatory action, and free radical protection. Moderate allergic and inflammatory responses, supports the immune system, slow aging and strengthen and repair connective tissue, including that of the cardiovascular system.

A great anti aging product.

Supplementing anti aging vitamins alone is not the answer to optimum health. Building the habit

of good nutrition means a balanced diet with plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables and protein. However many foods no longer contain the nutrients we need on a daily basis, anti-aging vitamins fills this shortfall

Acetyl-L-Carnitine is an amino acid derivative instrumental in the biochemical synthesis of acetycholine, an important neurotransmitter without which you would be unable to learn or to memorize anything. However, it has another property: it may be able to provide sufficient nutrition to the brain as to allow it to withstand the ravages of time and aging.

Since time immemorial mankind has sought the elixir of life that can be used to give humans everlasting life. While this has yet to be found there is increasing evidence that research is slowly but steadily identifying the factors that cause aging, and identifying means of overcoming them. Acetyl-L-carnatine is one of those amino acid supplements that is essential to life, and that when combined with other supplements can produce a synergistic effect that shows signs of combating at least some of the oxidative changes in the body that cause aging.

Anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C and E have long been used in attempts to fight against the oxidative effects of free radicals on the body; free radicals that once were the by products of our metabolism and easily combated, but which are now being increasingly generated in our environment through pollution, radiation, excessive exposure to sunlight and cigarette smoke. All of these contribute to aging through the disruption and destruction of body cells by these free radicals.

Acetylcholine is well known to biochemical historians, being one of the first neurotransmitters discovered, and its importance in maintaining the proper operation of the brain is indisputable. It is an essential part of the process that allows brain cells to communicate and to create memory. Not only that, but also to recall memories and to tell muscles when they should and should not contract. As people age their brain cells become less efficient, this mainly being due to a decline in the acetyl-L-carnitine that produces actylcholine in the body with the aid of the enzyme choline acetyl transferase.

To express it simply, acetyl-l-carnitine enables neurons to maintain communication when the levels of enzymes and other necessary chemicals are falling throughout the body due to the slowing of the body with age. If we cannot produce it ourselves, then we can either supply it directly though a supplement, or supply its precursor so that the body has the raw materials to produce it.

Most biochemistry is active throughout our lives: we simply need to provide the raw materials for the necessary reactions to take place. We can do that through supplements. It has been established that a supplement of acetyl-L-carnitine slows the natural mental decline that begins to occur in middle age and to improved memory and concentration. It is extremely useful that it is easily soluble in both water and fats, so that it can be carried to any part of the body that requires an antioxidant effect.

Studies have also indicated that supplemental acetyl-L-carnitine can promote improved energy generation through its effect on fatty acids. This support of the metabolism of fatty acids is indicated by its effect on ‘liver spots’, which are a recognized sign of aging. These brown spots can be seen on the skin as people age, but the lipofuscin that causes it also affects the internal organs and the brain, and can also appear on the lens of the eye. Lipofuscin is composed of waste products such as damaged proteins and oxidized fats and other lipids. Its production can be held back by antioxidants, and are reduced by supplemental acetyl-L-carnitine.

This is yet another incidence of how ALC can be used to slow done or even reverse, the effects of aging on the human metabolism and brain functions. Animal studies have indicated that this effect is significantly greater when it is used in conjunction with lipoic acid.

Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant, occurring naturally in beef, kidney, and green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli. It is also a coenzyme, working with with other metabolic enzymes to produce energy. Moreover, ALA raises the levels of a substance called glutathione which is critical for the proper functioning of the neurons. However, it is their effect on mitichondria that makes a combination of ALA and ALC so interesting in human biology.

Mitochondria are responsible for the generation of power in all cells in the human body through the biosynthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) responsible for all metabolic functions and cell generation. Without mitochondria, oxygen cannot be used. ATP is the substance that is responsible for carrying chemical energy in the body. During aging, mitochondria are damaged by oxidation through free radicals. This induced a general decline in energy and cognitive functions.

However it was found in a study with rats that when acetyl-L-carnitine was provided as a supplement, the age-related decline in mitochondrial activity was reversed and oxidation of fatty acids was increased. As a result of this fatty acid oxidation, even more oxidation damage to the mitochondria occurred. When a supplement of alpha lipoic acid was also given, however, the mitochondrial oxidation was reduced, so that the mitochondria produced a higher energy output with less oxidation damage.

In fact the two worked synergistically, the benefit of acetyl-L-Carnitine and alpha lipoic acid used together being more effective than when given separately. It is possibly the discovery of more such synergistic effects that will eventually lead to longer life spans!

After a period of time, the old rats took on the energy of much younger rats, and the aging process appeared to have reversed. Tests are now under way on humans, and while the doses needed are large, initial results of a 2001 study at San Francisco State University have indicated a reduction in the oxidative stress induced by exercise of a test group in comparison with a placebo control group.

This type of stress as in indication of damage caused by energy output, and relates to aging. It appears, therefore, that a supplement consisting of both acetyl-L- carnitine and alpha lipoic acid is more effective that either alone in improving the degeneration of energy levels as well the decline in cognitive and memory functions that comes with age. It is not yet, however, the elixir of life!

Fitness, beauty and anti aging are the fastest selling terms these days…and the biggest irony of the modern era. Today’s lifestyle is leading us towards the unhealthiest of habits, while craving for that youthful appearance that always seems elusive. The good news is that now there is a way to fight the harmful oxidants and free radicals that attack our bodies each day. Natural anti aging juice and food supplements can leave you looking and feeling better each day.
What is anti-aging?
Everything that is born must die someday. Yes, the fact is that our bodies grow and regenerate for a period of time before our cells and tissues begin to degenerate. Aging is the process of moving towards a phase of degeneration, when our cells and tissues begin their slow process of decay. But before you panic reading all this, you need to know that there are ways to hold the aging process at bay for prolonged periods of time. Anti-aging products are supplements that nourish and bolster our cells and tissues so that they continue to regenerate for a longer period of time than they normally would. The best anti-aging methods are regular exercise, a well balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Apart from this, the markets today are flooded with natural and pharmacological aids to anti-aging. Read on to know the best way to help your body repair itself and continue to look young for longer.
The Anti Aging Diet
An anti aging diet comprises of certain foods that are rich in specific nutrients. Some of these foods include:
• Anti-oxidants – Green leafy vegetables, fruit juices and especially the Acai Berry juice are effective anti-oxidants.
• Sprouted beans, whole grains and other raw nuts like walnuts and almonds
• Fresh green vegetables consumed raw or boiled are not only effective anti-oxidants, they provide a high fiber diet that helps cleanse the body of toxins
• Anti-aging juices top the popularity charts when it comes to retarding the aging process. Berry juice, like that from the Acai berry, is a nutritional supplement well known for its anti aging properties.
• Olive oil is also known to have effective anti aging properties.
• Barley greens, aloe vera, primrose oil, broccoli, lettuce, mushrooms, tomato, etc can be added to your weekly anti-aging intake to best results
To maximize the benefits of your anti-aging diet, you need to steer clear of certain foods, such as:
• Avoid drinks like tea, coffee, sodas and alcohol.
• Dairy products increase cholesterol in the body, which promotes the aging process. So minimize you intake of dairy products
• Sugar intake should be minimized as much as possible.
• Keep away from complex carbohydrates rich food material, having food rich in Omega3 fatty acids will work for anti aging process.
• A protein rich diet should be avoided.
• While egg whites are safe, avoid the use of egg yolks in your diet.
The best way to plan your daily diet is to have a heavy breakfast, followed by a light lunch and an even lighter dinner. If you can follow these simple dietary suggestions, you will never need to resort of drug supplements, which usually have harmful side effects, to help your body look and feel young.