Why Do We Age?

Although aging is a natural process, the phenomenon of aging is still a question that many try to answer. This is perhaps because in answering what aging is, you can discover just how to slow it down further or what is more completely obliterate it.

There are a lot of theories as to why we age, why our skin ages and why our bodies grow old. Here are just some of the most popular theories that scientists use.

It’s in the genes.

Since the discovery of the body’s genetic make-up and its double helix pattern, almost all things in life are genetically based. From the color of our eyes to the reason why we behave as we behave.

It now seems that the genes also hold the key to unlocking the mysteries of aging. It states that people have a "genetic timeclock" that can go off anytime. Despite this, scientists don't know what exactly sets people apart or why it happens. What they have found out is that there are people who are naturally younger looking and more active than their counterparts. Children of parents who have lived long will also have children who live long. By standard, women lead longer lives than men.

With genetic problems such as Alzheimer's, there are also some people who are pre-destined to lead shorter lives.

Free Radicals

Another theory being used involves free radicals, which are the products of chemical reactions in the body that occur everyday. These free radicals can harm the body and damage the cells. It attacks the elastin and the collagen in the body. These two are needed to keep the skin moisturized and elastic. Without them, the skin can sag and become wrinkled. Although these are often removed by antioxidants such as Vitamins E and C, not all can be neutralized.

Diet is the primary reason for getting anti-oxidants in the body. It is important that we have enough stored anti-oxidants in the body if we want to have it last until later. This is because the body's ability to produce these anti-oxidants will diminish as we grow old. This is perhaps why people who don't eat properly look older than those who always eat balanced meals.

Hormones

The loss of hormones in the body during menopause and andropause can also contribute in hastening the process of aging. This can also be seen in illnesses such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular problems. Hormones provide the body the fuel to maintain libido, vitality and energy.
 

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