Aging

Aging is accepted as a natural part of life. There is no distinct start point, it just begins in each individual person at a different time, and it affect each person uniquely. There are many lifestyle and biological factors, however, that we have learned does affect the aging process.


One such relationship is that of aging and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). In recent studies, it has been proven that there is a direct link between not only high levels of HDL and lower risk of heart disease increasing one's lifespan (Cohen, 2007), yet it is apparent that higher levels of HDL decreases the memory loss associated with aging (Nagourney, 2008). Therefore, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential as one ages, to ensure not only a long life, but a high quality life.

High-Density Lipoprotein

Genetics also have a drastic affect on aging. When studying the length of telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of each chromatid which prevent deterioration. As one grows, one's cells divide, and, during this process, the telomeres get shorter and shorter. It is suggested that since we are born with a specific length of our telomeres, and since siblings often have telomeres of similar lengths, that there is a gene that codes for telomere length (Moisse, 2010). Research has also been performed revealing a potential link between telomere length and heart disease, as well as the idea that unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, being obese and not exercising could accelerate telomere shortening.

Telomeres

As recent as 2003, a major discovery of the link of aging and genetics was uncovered by biologist David Sinclair. Sinclair, knowing that humans and yeast cells both utilize sirtuin, decided to test the effects of the gene SIR2 in yeast, which is comparable to SIRT1 is humans. He fed one group of yeast cells a normal amount of glucose, while he fed his experimental group 30-40% fewer calories of glucose. In the control group, the yeast cells aged, losing the shape of its DNA and thus deteriorating in the same way a human's cells would with cancer. However, in the calorie-restricted diet group, the yeast cells trigged SIR2 in response to the hungry, stressful situation and, as a result, stayed young. (Chadda, 2007). Now, scientists are using Sinclair's discovery as inspiration in their own studies between SIRT1 and aging in human cells. In the meantime, pharmaceutical companies are currently looking into resveratrol, a substance that appear to mimic the affects of a calorie-restricted diet by stimulating SIRT1, yet not reducing one's calorie intake. In an experiment on mice, it was revealed that mice who were given resveratrol lived 10-20% longer than those who did not consume it. Studies have also shown that red wine also contains this precious chemical, yet, in order to obtain the desired anti-aging affects illustrated in mice, humans would have to consume approximately 1,000 glasses a day (Cohen, 2007).

Resveratrol

Sirtuin

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also necessary in order to prevent or control aging. Even as one ages, one must take care of and protect one's body. Provided below is a compiled list of healthy habits to extend one's quantity and quality of life (Oz, 2010):

1. Maintain a healthy diet
2. Exercise consistently
3. Don't drink or smoke
4. Take 1,000 mg of calcium
5. Take 1,000 IU of Vitamin D (or get some sun for 15 minutes)
6. Sleep at least 7 hours a day

Healthy aging

Happy elderly

Bibliography:
Cohen, C. (2007, January 9). Aging. Retrieved November 28, 2010

  from , Public Broadcasting Services: NOVA Web site:
  http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/body/aging.html

Chadda, R. (2007, January 1). Healthy Old Age. Retrieved

  November 28, 2010 from , Public Broadcasting Services: NOVA Web
  site: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/body/aging-longevity.html

Moisse, K. (2010, February 8). Researchers Identify Genetic Variant

  Linked to Faster Biological Aging. Retrieved November 28, 2010
  from , Scientific American Web site:
  http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=aging-telomere

Nagourney, E. (2008, July 1). Aging: Good Cholesterol, Good

  Memory. Retrieved November 28, 2010 from , New York Times Web
  site:
  http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/01/health/research/01agin.html?_r=1

Oz, M. (2010, February 11).  Living Long and Living Well.

  Retrieved November 28, 2010 from , Time Magazine Web site:
  http://www.time.com/time/specials/packages/article/0,28804,1963392_1963369_1963380,00.htm

Stress

One of the primary goals of this module is to identify areas of stress in my life. While in this blog, I typically try to maintain a third-person omniscient perspective, here is my opportunity to reveal myself as a student, for stress encompasses my life as a whole. As if taking four AP courses (one of which is notorious for the amount of time required to be devoted to outside work) weren't enough, as well as an independent study course, a slew of extra curriculars, tutoring students, beginning the college process, taking standardized exams, balancing friends, family and homework and finding "me" time...I'd say that my life is pretty stressful. Currently, in an attempt to reduce stress, I've had to prioritize. Unfortunately, as a result, this blog has not been updated in almost a month.

Stress and the Body

While my experiences with stress, illustrated by my rant above, appear to be, well, stressful, they can sometimes be beneficial. In layman's terms, there is "good" stress, formally known as eustress, and "bad" stress, known as distress. Periods of stress that cause us to be more productive are good for us. This acute stress may occur before interviews, exams, or other situations in which we want to succeed. However, once we have recovered from the situation, we feel accomplished. Yet if this period stress lasts for a long period of time, chronic stress, one may suffer from physical manifestations of this overwhelming time. These symptoms may cause migraines, upset stomach, sleep problems, elevated blood pressure and even chest pains. Stress is both a physical and emotional condition. Emotional symptoms can cause people to "act out," be more agitated, depressed, nervous,  anxious, fearful, express feelings of being under constant pressure or suffer from "emotional breakdowns." These are not good ways to deal with stress, and therefore it is necessary to turn to other outlets to cope with stress.

Stress Response

Manifestations of Stress

In order to deal with bad stress, we develop coping mechanisms. However, these aren't always healthy, such as turning to alcohol, drugs, caffeine or overeating, which, in the end, cause more harm and stress to our bodies than how they alleviate the emotional and physical pain. In order to prevent stress, it is in your best interest to prioritize, avoid procrastination, stay positive, take care of your body by eating, sleeping and exercising, maintaining balance in your life and recognize your limitations. In unavoidable situations, especially, you must recognize your limitations and don't blame yourself. Additionally, try to relax your body and mind by meditating, deep breathing, yoga, and other calming techniques.