Telomeres, lifestyle, and aging
Telomere length and its biology is a concept still pretty much unknown for the vast majority of people, even though it has a major impact on our overall health and life quality over the years. I believe that health information should be free to everyone Telomeres are an essential part of human cells that affect how our cells age. Telomeres sit on the end of our chromosomes that contain genetic information, protecting them from deterioration and our bodies from early-onset diseaseTelomeres are crucial parts of the chromosome that act to protect them and ensure DNA replication is performed effectively. Every time DNA gets copied in humans, the telomeres at the ends get worn down. Research shows that longer telomeres are associated with a longer lifespan and that shorter telomeres are associated with the diseases of aging: heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. Telomeres is a word as a doctor I am familiar with. But I am not sure if my FB friends will fully understand the meaning and importance of telomeres. Because people are living longer, many countries must adapt their health policies. Aging can be difficult to accept. Our body might not be able to do the things it did when we were young. Bones break easier. Aches and pains can be a daily occurrence. Our vision becomes impaired. Our hair turns grey or white. Sometimes it falls out. Our noses and ears stretch. We get shorter. We all want to live longer. with health span as the number of years, we’re healthy, disease-free, and have a zest for life Some may wish for a magic pill that could slow down aging but there’s no way to stop the aging process, instead, there might be a way to slow it down.
There has been growing evidence that lifestyle factors may affect the health and lifespan of an individual by affecting telomere length. The shortening of telomeres is what creates the signs of aging. For example, grey hair, wrinkles, and a weak immune system. The longer our telomeres, the less the effects of aging. Recent studies indicate that telomere length, which can be affected by various lifestyle factors, can affect the pace of aging and onset of age-associated diseases. Telomere length decreases with age and may predict lifespan. Accelerated telomere shortening may increase the pace of aging. Smoking may expedite telomere shortening and process of aging. Obesity is associated with excessive telomere shortening. Stress increases the pace of telomere shortening and aging. Environment, nature of the profession, and stress can also affect the rate of telomere shortening and health. What we eat and how much we eat can significantly affect our telomeres, health, and longevity. A dietary restriction like intermittent fasting reduces the pace of aging. Dietary intake of antioxidants reduces the rate of telomere shortening If you’re negative, your body gets a surge of the stress hormone cortisol. This hurts your telomeres. Healthy communities, being in a good marriage long-term and having lifelong friendships, maintain telomeres. I sincerely hope that you have understood the importance of Telomeres.
Courtesy: Dr. Emanuel pieris
