The biological age of turning back, preventing illness: The scientist Elizabeth Blackburn thinks it’s possible, provided we maintain the protective caps of our chromosomes. We say, what is behind their findings.
For more than two decades, the molecular biologist Elizabeth Blackburn and Health psychologist Elissa Epel have studied the special properties of telomeres, and are convinced: “If we feel young and fit or old and sick, depends on their nature.” Telomeres are “one of the most important biological basis of aging”. The protective caps of our chromosomes consist of proteins and prevent – similar to the plastic reinforcements of laces from Fraying grandchildren – of our genome. The caps are too short, the affected cell, the Parts, the valuable DNS is in danger.
Newborns have very long telomeres. Can be used in each cell division a small piece to be shorter, measure the telomeres of a 35-Year-old only about three-quarters and that of a 65-Year-old half of the original length. The speed with which telomeres shorten is influenced, among other things, genetically.
Not only the research of Blackburn and Epel, many large studies have shown a correlation between telomere length and life expectancy. Short telomeres are associated with chronic diseases, such as Diabetes, cardiovascular and lung diseases and certain types of cancer.
The decisive factor is the life style is
There are, however, particularly the genes that determine whether we are good or bad, healthy or sick aging? Not just, are convinced by the authors: “The wonderful news is that we can intervene to a certain degree, influence how short-or long – how robust is our telomeres are.”
As studies show, can have negative influences such as Smoking, UV-radiation, chemicals, unbalanced diet and a sustained lack of telomere sleeping – and, thus, cell aging measurably accelerate. Also a mental imbalance and long-term Stress – Yes, even the anticipation of Stress worsen the condition of our telomeres.
It turns the tables, there are a lot of strategies, the chromosome-protecting caps to protect and revive: “Through targeted maintenance of telomeres can increase the chances of living a longer and more fulfilling, healthier life”, Blackburn and Epel convinced – and, for example, regular fashion recommend sports, enough sleep, fresh wholefoods and the Learning of relaxation techniques. Also, a positive mood,social contacts and an active, self-determined life in a pleasant environment are all factors that may affect our cells in a pleasing way.
To accept the aging keeps you young
The own older be honored to accept, is, in the opinion of Blackburn and Epel by the way, for sure a first step to healthier Telomeres: “The longing for youthfulness prevents us to accept ourselves the way we are”, are convinced the scientists.
Telomerase: the miracle enzyme, or cancer risk?
In 2009, Elizabeth Blackburn received the Nobel prize in medicine for the discovery of a body’s own enzyme, with the aid of telomeres can be repaired: “Telomerase can slow down the shortening of Telomeres, which is associated with cell division, prevent, or undo,” explains the scientist.
Countless Anti-Aging creams, supplements, and dietary supplements to advertise today with the addition of Telomerase. In the eyes of black burns, a dangerous Trend: “in fact, we endanger all of us, if we try to extend our life by the artificial methods of Telomerase activation.” This could promote uncontrolled cell growth and cancer. “The artificial feed is usually the worst way,” says Blackburn. Harmless it is, however, to increase the Telomerase concentration is targeted by a healthier life style.
Telomeres can be measured – Yes or no?
You seem young, as you are? Congratulations, your telomeres are probably in good condition. Reliable Soft indicators are, according to Blackburn and Epel, the external appearance of the skin and body and feels of the age: “It shows that people that look older (as you are), have on average shorter telomeres.”
You can leave the length of its telomeres, specialized laboratories, trade fairs, should be pre-aware of what a bad result in a triggers: Motivation or anxiety, and additional Stress? Important to know: All of the studies are based on the average values of large groups. Measuring the telomeres of an individual, the result is not necessarily a reliable indicator of your state of health.
Criticisms of the telomeric theory
Black burns and Epels critics object to, inter alia, the aging process will be simplified in the telomere theory. “Telomeres are the only cause for the aging of cells. Normal cells are not exposed to other stress factors, which we understand particularly well“, the well-known researchers to consider. Nevertheless, they are convinced that telomeres play in the aging process plays a Central role.
What is good and what is bad for my telomeres?
Better to avoid:
- Chronic Stress, permanent lack of sleep, contrary to the personal biorhythm of life, multi-tasking, determination, anonymity, hustle and bustle, negative thoughts,lack of exercise
- Smoking, toxic chemicals (e.g. pesticides), pollutants (e.g., Cadmium), too much UV-radiation
- Fast Food and other highly processed foods, sugar, refined carbohydrates (e.g. white flour), red meat, Chips and Fried food, sausages, a lot of alcohol, sodas and other sugary drinks
More of the same:
- Mindfulness training, Meditation, focus, regular breaks, enough sleep (min. 7 hours per night), joy of life, good mood, regular moderate sports activities for example aerobics, interval Training, or Yoga
- Positive friendships, close relationships, social activities, willingness to help, a healthy and vibrant partnership, hugs, residential areas with high Cohesion, neighborhood with lots of Greenery, a beautiful room design
- fresh, preferably pesticide-free vegetables and fruits, whole grain products, nuts, seeds, legumes, Omega-3 fatty acids (organic)fish, high quality proteins, water as a thirst quencher, green tea, coffee