Free Radicals are a major factor in the degenerative diseases of aging. They are molecules with an odd number of electrons; they are unstable and highly reactive. Because of their structure they are toxic. Free radicals are created through the normal activity of healthy cells such as strenuous exercise or any activiy requiring heavy breathing. They are formed when oxygen interacts with normal molecules. These free radicals attack other molecules in the body in order to grab an electron therefore damaging the "healthy' molecule.
Once formed these highly reactive radicals can start a chain reaction. In fact, just about every cell in your body gets about 10,000 "hits" a day by free radicals. Their chief danger comes from attacking too many molecules, in which case cell death may occur damaging entire organs and causing them to stop working. The damage they can do when they react with important cellular components such as DNA, or the cell membrane could trigger the developement of certain diseases such as cancer. To prevent free radical damage the body has a defense system of Antioxidants Antioxidants go on a search and destroy mission and interact with free radicals and "disarm" them before vital molecules are damaged. In order to do that the antioxidant gives up one or more of its atoms to stabilize the free radical causing it to become a "normal" molecule.
Now, why you may ask doesn't the antioxidant become a free radical? Well, actually it does but, it's structure is more stable and is therefore neither toxic nor reactive. However different antioxidant have been know to interact with each other. Let's say, vitamin E gives up an electron to a free radical and becomes oxidized. Vitamin C, as an example, can interact with the modified vitamin E and return it to its original state.
Although there are several enzyme systems within the body that scavenge free radicals they may not be effective enough as we age.
In order to be assured that our bodies have enough antioxidants to prevent damage caused by free radicals there are some very effective supplements available.
Life on the planet Earth can be expensive but it does come with a free trip around the sun!
These are the soul's changes. I don't believe in ageing. I believe in forever altering one's aspect to the sun. Hence my optimism.
* Virginia Woolf
**Note from the author: I am not a doctor, a medical researcher or an expert in the field of anti-aging. The information on this website is a result of my own personal experiences. At the age of 59, and after extensive research I began a regimented anti-aging program of my own design with very positive results and no adverse affects. I am healthy, disease free, (not so much as a sniffle in 8 yrs) energetic, full of vitality, in good physical condition and (many would say) look younger than my age would suggest. This website is a result of my passion for the subject. Not all of the products discussed here are for everyone. Before launching such a program for yourself please consult your doctor. Thanks for visiting my Staying Young website. R. David Brown
Disclaimer: The information provided on "On Staying Young" is for educational purposes only and IS NOT intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek professional medical advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
