March 2019

Is aging inevitable? Aging is a natural process that all living beings go through, and it is often accompanied by various physical and mental changes. While it is true that aging is inevitable, it is also possible to slow it down and reduce the impact of age-related diseases. For example, the incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative syndromes has increased with age, and these diseases are now the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. However, research has shown that slowing down the aging process can have a significant impact on overall health, not only by extending lifespan, but also by preventing or delaying the onset of these diseases

Fighting the sarcopenia: One aspect of aging that can be particularly challenging is the loss of muscle mass, known as sarcopenia. After the age of 30, the human body begins to lose 3-5% of its muscle mass per decade, and most people will lose around 30% of their muscle mass over their lifetime. Sarcopenia is now recognized by the World Health Organization as a medical condition, and there are ways to prevent or reduce muscle loss. For example, maintaining a healthy diet that includes enough protein, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding physical inactivity can all help to maintain muscle mass and prevent sarcopenia.

Fighting age-related memory loss. As we age, we may experience difficulty remembering things like where we put our keys or glasses. This is a common occurrence and is not necessarily a sign of dementia. Research suggests that memory loss is not an inevitable part of aging, as the brain is capable of producing new cells throughout our lifetime. Similar to how we must use our muscles to maintain strength, we must also actively work to maintain our cognitive abilities. Engaging in regular, moderate exercise can help by releasing a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and promoting overall health, including maintaining a healthy blood pressure, weight, and heart. Additionally, exercise can also improve mood, energy levels, and reduce stress and anxiety.