Aging

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Aging

All of us are going through this period of life. Will it be growing pains? Happiness? Fulfillment? Or Success? In scientific terms, biologist said, “We age because the human cells stop dividing and start malfunctioning”. Too many “free radicals” create cellular pollution that shut down the energy level of our body. A free radical is an unstable type of oxygen molecule. When that unstable oxygen molecule seeks to replace its missing electron, it causes a chain reaction that can damage cell membranes and DNA. Too much damage in the cells can cause cell mutation and cell deaths and causes metabolic and cardiovascular diseases.

Free radicals are not all bad because they help the immune system and they are necessary for the proper function of our body organs and blood vessels. But when they become too many and get out of control, they can be very destructive. However, the body has weapons to keep free radicals under control—the antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E and beta-carotene.

The process of aging allows time for the completeness of a person, the realization of one’s potential and self-actualization. Staying in touch with family, friends, relatives and engaging our mind and body in challenging ways as well as participating in a variety of activities are good strategies for a successful aging.