Aging

Biology Behind Osteoporosis Revealed in New Study

A new study published in the journal PNAS has uncovered the biology behind age-related bone loss. Researchers from Zhejiang University in China and the University of Alabama in Birmingham found that a protein known as Cbf-beta is essential at controlling the rate at which new bone cells replace old, dying cells.

Understanding Age-Related Bone Loss

Age-related bone loss is a progressive and serious disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone mass or produces too little new bone. This causes the bones to become weak and likely to break in a fall. In very serious cases, even minor bumps or sneezing can cause a fracture. Healthy bone resembles a honeycomb under a microscope. By comparison, bones that have lost mass have large spaces and holes.

This disease is serious and potentially life-threatening. Fractures from bone loss are most likely to occur in the wrist, spine or hip, but they can happen anywhere. Bone loss can limit mobility and the complications can be life-threatening to older adults. 20 percent of seniors who break a hip bone die within a year from the corrective surgery or fracture.

Age-related bone loss affects about 54 million people in the United States. It’s estimated that one in two women and one in four men over the age of 50 will suffer a bone fracture at some point due to bone loss. Women are four times more likely to develop bone loss as their bones are naturally thinner and they have a longer lifespan. Menopause, which stops estrogen production that helps use calcium, also plays a big role.

Risk factors for age-related bone loss include:

Age. Bone density peaks around 30. After that, bone mass begins to decline. This makes it more important to exercise and get enough vitamin D and calcium to maintain bone mass.
Family history.
Gender. Women are far more likely to develop bone loss.
Body weight and bone structure. Women who are thin and petite are more likely to lose bone mass than women with a larger frame.
Ethnicity. Asian and Caucasian women have a higher risk of bone loss than other ethnic groups.
Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Certain medications like steroids.
Smoking.
Heavy drinking.

The Mechanism Behind Osteoporosis Revealed

Previous research has found that progenitor cells, or immature cells in the body, remain in reserve until receiving genetic instructions from transcription factors to become a new type of cell. When it comes to bone tissue, progenitor cells become bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. Depending on the genetic instructions, mesenchymal stem cells may mature into cartilage-producing cells (chondrocytes), bone-producing cells (osteoblasts) or fat cells (adipocytes).

In the recent study, after investigating transcription factors that control how progenitor cells mature, the researchers found that a protein called Cbf-beta was necessary to switch between bone-producing cells and fat cells. Until this study, it was unknown what controlled how progenitor cells matured to maintain the balance of bone formation.

This study involved engineering three groups of mice by deleting the Cbf-beta protein at different stages of progenitor cell maturation. All three groups of mice developed severe bone loss and accumulated fat in the bone marrow, much like the age-related bone loss in humans. This also led to increased levels of fat cell genes in progenitor cells and bone cells in the skulls of the mice without Cbf-beta.

After further research, the teams found that Cbf-beta works by activating a signal in a cell that blocks expression of the gene that causes progenitor cells to turn into fat cells. The researchers hope that this discovery will eventually lead to new ways to treat bone loss.

How to Guard Against Bone Loss

While bone loss begins to occur gradually as we age, there are many ways to protect healthy bone production. Staying active is one of the most important ways to protect your bones. The Cleveland Clinic recommends a specific exercise regimen for people with bone loss who have not suffered a fracture. This includes cardiovascular workouts and strengthening exercises.

Eating a healthy diet high in nutrients necessary to build bone and supplementing as necessary can ensure your body has what it needs to form new bone cells. The following are the most important nutrients for healthy bones.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is produced by the body after exposure to sunlight, but it can be found in some foods. Vitamin D deficiency is common in the United States and elsewhere. Vitamin D supplementation is often recommended to achieve recommended daily levels.

Calcium

Calcium is necessary for healthy growth and development of bones. Good calcium intake is also essential to achieve peak bone mass and it can modify the rate of bone loss as we age. Unfortunately, many adults in the United States fail to achieve the recommended daily calcium intake.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K has recently been found to play an important role in bone metabolism and bone health. Blood levels of vitamin K have even been found to be an indicator of hip fractures.

Phytoestrogens

Estrogen deficiency is one of the biggest contributing factors to the high rate of bone loss in post-menopausal women. This is why estrogen replacement therapy is still the only proven way to prevent and help reverse bone loss. Phytoestrogens may be a safer alternative. Also known as dietary estrogen, phytoestrogens are compounds that naturally occur in plant foods and structurally resemble natural estrogen.

MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane or MSM is a sulfur-containing compound that’s found in grains, vegetables and fruits. This antioxidant is believed to reduce swelling and oxidative damage, especially after strenuous activities like exercising. One study conducted at the Department of Orthopedics at Assaf Harofeh Medical Center in Israel found that patients who used MSM for 12 weeks reported an improvement in osteoarthritic symptoms.

Magnesium

While magnesium does not directly help bone growth, it is necessary to absorb calcium and MSM. Magnesium is necessary to convert vitamin D into its active form so it can activate calcium absorption.

Supplementing these important nutrients or a high-quality formula that provides two or more of these ingredients can help protect bone health as you age.

New Research on Lutein and Cognitive Aging Shows Definitive Benefits

Sep 01 by Ewcopywriting Leave a Comment

Lutein, a carotenoid found in fruits and vegetables, has long been associated with eye health. A new study conducted at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign has found that this nutrient may also help slow cognitive decline. This pigment or carotenoid may play an important role in the development and maintenance of brain function while improving memory and learning. The link between lutein and cognitive aging may be important in future dementia research and offer adults another way to stay sharp mentally.

What is Lutein?

Lutein is one of 600 carotenoids that’s often called the “eye vitamin” for its use in the prevention of eye diseases. This antioxidant is responsible for giving vegetables and fruits their yellow color. Lutein can only be obtained through diet and supplements; it isn’t produced by the human body.

Lutein is most known for its benefits for eye health, especially when it comes to age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. The eye contains lutein and zeaxanthin in levels much higher than other tissue in the human body. Both the retina and lens of the eye are exposed to oxygen and light constantly, and these carotenoids work to reduce damage from oxygen and light.

The natural lens of the eye collects and focuses light on the retina which requires a clear lens. The most common cause of cataracts is oxidation, which results in clouding. Lutein and other antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals associated with oxidation and retinal damage. Higher intake of zeaxanthin and lutein has been associated with a much lower risk of developing cataracts.

Lutein also helps reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, a disease that causes progressive vision loss. According to one study, taking just 6 mg of lutein per day lowers the risk of macular degeneration by 43 percent.

Lutein and Cognitive Aging: What’s the Link?

A new study conducted by University of Illinois researchers examined the levels of lutein in 60 adults between 25 and 45 years old. According to researchers, the middle-aged study participants with higher lutein levels had neural responses similar to those of younger participants than with peers.

This study, published in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience, is different than most studies that focus on older adults who have already started to experience cognitive decline. The researchers chose to focus on young and middle-aged participants to see if there was a difference based on lutein levels. The study also found that age-related cognitive decline begins earlier than many suspected with signs beginning in the 30s.

To study lutein levels, the researchers measured lutein in the eyes of the participants by having them look into a scope and responding to a flickering light. Electrodes were used on the scalp to measure neural activity while participants completed a task requiring attention.

Researchers didn’t examine how lutein works, although past studies have indicated that lutein offers anti-inflammatory properties that improve brain function. It appears that lutein offers protection for the brain.

The next step for the team is to conduct intervention trials to investigate how increasing consumption of lutein increases lutein levels in the eyes and whether it improves cognitive function.

Other Cognitive Benefits of Lutein

This is not the first study involving lutein and cognitive aging. Another study, published in the Journals of Gerontology, found that higher lutein intake is associated with a lower risk of dementia. This study, published in 2016, examined the relationship between plasma carotenoids like lutein and Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The study began with 1,092 older participants with no signs of dementia. During the 10-year follow-up, 199 cases of Alzheimer’s and dementia were diagnosed. After adjusting for socioeconomic status, diet quality, and other variables, only higher lutein levels were significantly associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Research has also suggested that as babies receive more lutein from formula or breast milk, they have higher levels of lutein found in their brains. This may speed up cognitive milestones. Children in school may have higher test scores with a diet higher in lutein. The benefits can also continue throughout life as college students with higher levels of lutein seem to have better memory and mental sharpness.

Getting Enough Lutein Through Diet and Supplementation

According to the American Optometric Association, most Western diets are low in lutein. Lutein, as well as the related carotenoid zeaxanthin, are found in leafy green vegetables like spinach and some other foods like eggs. Good sources of lutein and zeaxanthin include:

kale: 1 cup cooked has 23.8 mg
spinach: 1 cup cooked has 20.4 mg
collards: 1 cup cooked has 14.6 mg
spinach: 1 cup raw has 3.8 mg
green peas: 1 cup has 2.2 mg
broccoli: 1 cup cooked has 1.6 mg
eggs: 1 large eggs have 0.3 mg

Lutein is also available alone in soft-gel capsule form or as a part of some natural supplement formulas. When taken as a supplement, lutein should be taken at mealtime as it’s absorbed best when ingested with some fat. A dose of 6 mg to 30 mg per day is recommended.

Nourish Your Skin from the Inside Out with These Top Nutrients for Skin Health

Mar 21 by Ewcopywriting Leave a Comment

With spring and summer approaching, many people will be showing more skin than ever before. Parkas and hats will soon be traded for sundresses and shorts. The switch to warm weather also means that our skin will be exposed to elements such as the sun and wind more than in cold weather months. In addition, our environment is filled with toxic pollutants that can harm our skin and other tissues with repeated exposure. The good news? There are many nutrients for skin health that can help you to look and feel your best this year. In fact, spring is the perfect time for some internal “spring cleaning” to maintain inner health and outer beauty.

Ready for Sunshine?

Exposure to fresh air and sunlight might improve our tans, but over time it can take a toll on the health of our skin. Ultraviolet rays in sunlight damage elastin fibers, which are responsible for keeping our skin firm and tight as well as helping it to heal from bruises and cuts. Exposure to wind and air movement can similarly cause damage to delicate skin fibers. Our skin is also exposed to elements and chemicals that cause oxidation and free radical damage. This damage is minor but can accumulate over time and lead to premature aging if we do not have enough of the nutrients needed to detoxify, replenish, and heal stressed tissues.

Over time, this minor damage can become compounded and have major negative results. People may find that they suffer from dry skin or other discomforts. Skin that is not properly nourished may age faster or even develop diseases such as skin cancer. Skin is the largest organ of our bodies, so our health depends on maintaining it. It is crucial that people take in plenty of nutrients for skin health to support healing and optimal function.

Preventing and Healing Skin Damage from the Inside Out

Many people seek fillers, shots and other procedures to maintain the youthful appearance of their skin. However, these procedures do not treat the root cause of skin damage: An inability to heal from exposure to the sun and other damaging elements. Good nutrition is needed to heal skin from the inside out. In addition, there are many herbs that have been shown to make our skin stronger and more healthy.

Our skin has the ability to heal itself when given the right tools. These tools are available in the form of skin-supporting nutrients as well as herbs known to promote skin rejuvenation. These help skin remain healthy and youthful in a variety of ways, from cleaning out toxins to assisting in the synthesis of proteins like collagen that make up the backbone of healthy skin. Experts recommend taking in plenty of these nutrients for skin health as well as drinking additional water and eating plenty of raw vegetables to support healthy and beautiful skin.

Top Nutrients for Skin Health

If you want to get your skin ready to be bared, there are several natural ingredients that can help you on your way. Consider taking a supplement that contains some of the following skin-friendly vitamins and herbs:

Vitamins C, E, and A act as antioxidants and cofactors for skin renewal.
Lutein and zeaxanthin both help the body rebuild proteins such as collagen to maintain healthy structure.
Selenium helps protect skin from harmful ultraviolet rays.
Alpha lipoic acid can help slow the visible effects of aging.
Enzyme CoQ10 is a potent antioxidant that fights free radicals.
Burdock root acts as a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory in skin and liver cells.
Red clover helps preserve the elasticity of skin and other vital tissues.
Dandelion root is a popular herb for cleanses and purification.
Milk thistle can help the liver to remove toxins and waste products from the body.
Marigold, also called calendula, can assist in healing from cuts, bruises and other damage.
Horsetail possesses unique anti-wrinkle effects.
Hyaluronic acid helps to maintain healthy levels of moisture within the skin tissues.

When combined, these natural ingredients can work synergistically to help support skin in appearing youthful and healthy even with exposure to damaging elements such as sun, wind and environmental toxins. If you want to enjoy the warm weather without damaging your skin permanently, consider using a supplement that provides some of all of these natural nutrients for skin health.

While there are many fillers and creams available on the market, the best strategy for maintaining youthful and healthy skin is to maintain good whole body health. There are a variety of scientifically supported nutrients and natural herbs that will help you to look and feel your best. Consider taking a supplement with these nutrients for skin health to keep your skin, hair and other tissues in top form.

Red Wine Compound Resveratrol May Protect Lungs and Respiratory Health

Mar 15 by Ewcopywriting Leave a Comment

Many people struggle with respiratory concerns as they age. New research on resveratrol lung benefits suggests that this compound found in red wine may help protect the lungs against premature aging and disease.

Respiratory concerns are some of the most serious causes of death on the globe, killing around three million people a year and affecting many times more. These include common health problems such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer. These conditions are especially common and more serious in children and the elderly. While there are treatments that can reduce symptoms, there are currently no cures for most serious lung problems. However, several recent studies on resveratrol lung benefits suggest that a simple natural remedy may be able to help many.

What Is Resveratrol?

Resveratrol has recently become popular due to its many reported health benefits. Naturally produced in the skins of grapes as well as being present in peanuts and pistachios, this antioxidant is the result of plants’ exposure to stressors such as drought, ultraviolet light and fungal infections. Besides protecting plants from external stressors, it appears to act as an antioxidant in the human body as well. Recent studies have found that resveratrol may have cardiovascular benefits, help maintain healthy cell growth and function and even promote healthy aging. According to new studies, it may also promote healthy aging in the lungs and help to protect against respiratory concerns.

Lungs and the Aging Process

We may not notice deterioration in our respiratory tracts the way we notice new wrinkles or a change in vision, but our lungs indeed change as we age. Our alveoli become enlarged and less elastic, making them less able to exchange gases. In addition, the tissues that make up the lungs deteriorate and lose functionality over time. As lungs lose the ability to breathe effectively, cells become inflamed, which causes even more damage. The result is a gradual loss of function and the eventual onset of diseases such as COPD and emphysema.

Age-related lung concerns take a huge toll on people who suffer from them and on the nation as a whole. They can make it difficult for people to work, exercise or even to perform simple tasks such as walking to the mailbox. These are very expensive conditions, with COPD alone costing $36 million a year just in health costs. Preventing or even slowing the progression of lung concerns can lead to higher quality of life, fewer deaths and nationwide economic savings.

Resveratrol Lung Benefits

How can a simple grape extract help promote healthy respiratory aging and protect against certain lung concerns? The antioxidant effects of resveratrol are believed to be one of its major benefits. In one study, when mice were given inhaled resveratrol, they saw less of the alveolar changes that underlie aging in the lungs. They experienced less lung cell damage, fewer DNA mutations and better lung function. These resveratrol lung benefits were measurable after just three months of the treatment.

In addition, resveratrol appears to promote healthy cellular inflammatory processes and have an effect on inflammation that causes the progression of respiratory illnesses such as COPD. When COPD patients are given resveratrol, they show lower cytokine levels in their lung fluids. This is significant because cytokines released by lung macrophages produce much of the inflammation associated with respiratory disease. People also had a more than 50 percent reduction in other known mediators of inflammation.

Resveratrol, Curcumin and Lung Cancer

Do resveratrol lung benefits extend to deadly diseases such as lung cancer? A recent study suggests that this plant antioxidant may at least be beneficial—likely by promoting healthy DNA—which is sometimes responsible for the uncontrolled growth of unhealthy cells. This effect is especially strong when resveratrol is combined with curcumin, a compound found in spices such as cumin. These two natural remedies appear to act synergistically, with far more benefit when used together than when either is used alone.

Natural Remedies for Lifelong Health

While pharmaceuticals will always be necessary for many people with respiratory concerns, these studies suggest that others may be able to derive some relief with natural remedies such as resveratrol. In fact, resveratrol is believed to be responsible for many of the purported health benefits of red wine, which contains high levels of this antioxidant. In many ways, natural remedies can be superior when it comes to keeping people healthy. As the old saying goes, “Prevention is the best cure.”

There is still a great deal of research to be done on resveratrol lung benefits. However, these studies add to a growing body of evidence suggesting that this plant compound may have a positive effect on whole-body health by promoting healthy cellular inflammatory processes and protecting against tissue damage. A glass of wine, handful of grapes or resveratrol supplement just may bring you one step closer to healthy aging.

Cognitive Decline in Women May Start Sooner Than Previously Thought

Jan 31 by Ewcopywriting Leave a Comment

Age-related cognitive decline is an unfortunate part of growing older. According to new studies, this cognitive decline in women may begin earlier than previously suspected.

For many people, one of the most feared aspects of aging is the prospect of cognitive decline. Physical disability can be mitigated, but no one wants to live without their memories, personality and ability to navigate life. According to new studies, this gradual decline may begin even earlier than we previously believed—as early as middle age for many women. However, this bad news comes with hope: There are ways to slow or stop mental decline and lead happy fulfilling lives even into our golden years.

What Is Age-Related Cognitive Decline?

Modern medicine has come up with innovative solutions to many of the problems that plague people in old age. The result is that we live longer lives than ever before in human history. However, because people are living longer than ever before, cognitive decline is becoming increasingly common. We can slow the signs of aging in the body but not in the mind. With 72 million elderly people expected to live in the United States alone by 2030, this gradual loss of cognition and memory could be a devastating public health issue in addition to the personal tragedy it is for the elderly and their loved ones.

According to a large-scale study called “The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation,” this decline may begin even earlier in women than in men. This study found that many women are showing the early signs of cognitive decline as early as middle-age. Women were tested three times over several years after they had completed menopause in areas such as working memory, verbal memory and speed tasks. On average, these women showed a decline in these cognitive skills even though neither they nor those around them realized there was already a loss of cognition. This decline appears to occur earlier in women than in men, perhaps decades earlier. Researchers believe that this may be partially due to menopause when women lose the protective effects of estrogen and other female hormones.

When Do the First Signs of Dementia Begin?

Some people keep their mental faculties throughout old age, while others succumb to Parkinson Disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other devastating types of dementia. Most elderly people end up somewhere between these two extremes, with a condition known as mild cognitive decline. Mild cognitive decline involves small and gradual changes in memory and reasoning skills that occur with aging. People may regularly forget where they placed their keys or forget how to perform a complicated hobby that they once could do well. Most of these people will never develop actual dementia, although they are at higher risk.

This decline is so common that it is generally regarded as a normal by-product of aging. It indeed is normal in that it is common and affects most people. In fact, almost all mammals show similar changes as they grow older. While mild and gradual decline appears to affect women earlier than men, it will likely affect almost all of us at some point, and even affects our dogs, cats and other furry loved ones. This leads many to wonder: Are there ways to stop or even merely slow this decline? How can we ensure that our golden years are indeed golden?

Can Cognitive Decline Be Stopped or Prevented?

According to new research, there are a few natural and healthy ways that we can maintain good memory and cognition throughout our lifespan. First, it is crucial to remain active—both mentally and physically. Getting exercise every day and engaging in mentally stimulating activities both have been proven to keep us healthier for longer times, both in the body and in spirit.

There also appears to be a few dietary changes we can make to encourage good health and cognitive function over a lifetime. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are most commonly found in fish oils, have been found to support brain health and help preserve cognition and memory. Not only are these fatty acids essential building blocks for healthy brain cells, but they also protect against the inflammation that can be destructive to the tissues of our organs over time. Eating a Mediterranean diet with plenty of vegetables, whole grains and lean protein also may slow or prevent different types of dementia. The carotenoid plant compound lutein, which can be found in supplement form or obtained from the diet, has also been linked to healthy cognitive function.

Age-related cognitive decline may be common and occur earlier in women, but this does not mean that we have to accept it. Understanding more about why our bodies lose brain function as we age, and learning how to prevent this, will allow our growing aging population to lead happier and more functional lives. In the meantime, taking antioxidant supplements, eating a healthy diet and staying active in a variety of ways appears to protect you from mild cognitive decline.

Boosting Zinc Intake Can Protect Your DNA

Jan 13 by Ewcopywriting Leave a Comment

Do you get enough zinc in your diet? Research on the link between zinc and DNA repair suggests that this metal may be more important to human health than previously thought.

If you are like many people in the United States and Europe, you may not be getting enough zinc in your diet. While most people know about the health benefits of vitamin C and iron, zinc is more of an unsung hero. However, new research on zinc and DNA suggests that you should be very concerned about whether you are getting enough of this trace metal in your diet and supplement regimen.

Zinc and Your Health

Although zinc is not generally one of the rock star vitamins you read about in the popular media, it is very important to human health. Zinc plays an important role as a cofactor in many of the biochemical processes that drive your metabolism. In addition, zinc helps to support a healthy immune system and fight the damage associated with aging. Perhaps most important, zinc is essential in human growth and development, making it especially important for pregnant women and children to get enough of this trace metal.

Zinc is available in many of the whole foods. However, the standard Western diet is deficient in these whole foods, leaving many people at risk of a zinc deficiency.

Zinc and DNA Repair

While doctors and scientists have always recognized that zinc is important for a healthy life, new research suggests that it may be even more crucial than we previously thought. According to recent studies, even a small increase in dietary zinc reduces DNA damage, which can potentially slow aging and even lower the risk of diseases such as cancer. It appears that zinc and DNA repair are deeply intertwined, with zinc playing an important role in critical genetic repair processes and also reducing oxidative stress on cells.

If you think you are not getting enough zinc in your diet, even a small supplement can make a huge difference. These studies found that a small boost in zinc levels can make a huge difference in how quickly the DNA in your cells deteriorates. This small boost can help you fight off a cold and even lower your risk of cardiovascular disease and promote healthy cell growth.

Zinc for Cell Repair and So Much More

The link between zinc and DNA repair is important because so many chronic diseases have been linked to deficient DNA. As we age, our DNA accumulates errors and mutations. While our bodies have mechanisms to slow this damage, we all ultimately succumb to it. DNA damage has been linked to diverse diseases, including many of those that we associate with old age. Zinc is especially important in helping to facilitate DNA repairs. On the other hand, low zinc levels can lead to cells aging and developing chronic diseases at younger ages. This is partially due to the role of “zinc fingers” in DNA replication and repair. Zinc fingers are a compound made of zinc that bind to DNA and help control when it divides.

Ultimately, a healthy body requires a variety of different nutrients to achieve optimal health. However, the Western diet tends to be deficient in these nutrients, contributing to the epidemic of chronic disease that currently is overtaking many developed nations. While we have ample access to a variety of foods, many people cannot or simply do not get the zinc they need to protect their DNA.

Are You Getting Enough Zinc?

Many people are unknowingly not getting enough zinc in their diets, which is unfortunate in light of new knowledge about the link between zinc and DNA repair. The best food source of zinc is oysters. Zinc is also present in large amounts in crab, lobster and other shellfish. However, even if you do not have access to seafood, there are still ways to ensure you get enough zinc. Beef is a good source of this trace metal, as is chicken, yogurt and beans. If you are not eating enough of these foods, a supplement containing zinc can also help you to get enough of this nutrient to prevent DNA damage and immune dysfunction.

Eating a well-rounded diet is important not just because of macronutrients such as protein, but also because of micronutrients such as zinc. We need to have healthy levels of a variety of nutrients in order to enjoy good health over a long lifetime. If you fear you are not getting enough of zinc or other trace elements, ask your doctor whether a multivitamin is the right choice for your long-term well-being.