Aging Gracefully
Why do we age? Many theories about aging exist. The Genetic Theory asserts that our cells have a finite capacity to divide, after which there is permanent death. This limitation malfunctions with cancer where cells multiply rapidly and excessively. The Neuroendocrine Theory associates aging with declining regulatory abilities of our endocrine organs such as the hypothalamus in the brain and the adrenal glands. Cortisol which is excreted by our adrenals is one of the few hormones that increase with age. In excess cortisol can cause such things as muscle loss, central obesity, declining memory and poor immunity. The Free Radical Theory attributes aging and disease to cellular damage caused by oxidative stress. Oxidation occurs naturally, but is enhanced significantly by our modern lifestyles that expose us to numerous oxidants through chemicals in our air, water, medications, cosmetics and foods. The Membrane Theory attributes aging to deteriorating cellular membranes that allow for the accumulation of toxic materials in our cells.
Is chronic disease a natural part of aging? We are the first generation to be sicker than our parents. In one of the world’s richest countries, with ample modern medical technologies, one wonders why aging has become synonymous with cancer, heart attacks, strokes, diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Does this mean our bodies are aging faster? Or, could it be that lifestyle related chronic diseases, rather than normal aging, are the prime determinant of functional loss in old age? Probably both are true.
Anti-aging approach. While we have not been able to reduce aging to a single theory or cause, it is very likely that there is some validity to all of them. If we protect our genetic materials and cellular membranes from damage and consume ample antioxidants to counter oxidative stress, we are probably well on our way to slowing down aging and/or preventing the onset of chronic disease. The naturopathic approach to healing does all of these things through the use of herbs, diets and lifestyle modifications that help limit our exposure to damaging chemicals. The preventative approach to health care does help slow down the aging process and onset of chronic disease. For example, increasing omega3 fatty acids in the diet by supplementing with fish oils helps protect the fluidity and viability of our cells.
Homotoxicology. A specialized form of alternative medicine called Homotoxicology links good health to three pillars: detoxification, immune balancing and optimal cellular functioning. Homotoxicology places strong emphasis on inflammation as being the one common link between all aging diseases such as cancer, heart disease, osteoarthritis, diabetes and dementia. For example, inflammation can cause damage to arterials walls thereby making them more prone to deposits of cholesterol and eventually atherosclerosis and heart disease. By addressing inflammation in the body we are honing in on the common denominator. Inflammation ties in with the various aging theories mentioned previously. For example, excessive inflammation causes production of free radicals which cause oxidative stress.
Bottom Line. No matter what alternative approach one takes to prevent excessive aging, the key is to address the root causes of aging. I believe that these are intimately tied up in our lifestyle choices and priorities. The solution lies in our ability to accept that we are really what we eat, what we drink and what we breathe.
