Author:
Connie Limon
See Theories of Aging Page #1
The Free Radical
Theory
This development in
anti-aging research was first introduced by R. Gerschman in 1954 and
developed by Dr. Denham Harman of the University of Nebraska, College
of Medicine. Free radical is a term used to describe any molecule
that differs from conventional molecules. Free radicals possess a
free electron that makes it react with other molecules in highly
destructive ways.
The theory holds
that free-radical damage begins at birth and continues until we die.
In our youth its effects are fairly minor because the body has
extensive repair and replacement mechanisms that in healthy young
people function to keep cells and organs in working order. With age,
the accumulated effects of free-radical damage begin to take their
toll and are part of what ages our cells. Free-radical disruption of
cell metabolism may also create mutant cells leading to cancer and
death. Free radicals attack collagen and elastin. Collagen and
elastin are the substances that keep our skin moist, smooth, flexible
and elastic. When these vital tissues fray and break under the
assault of free radicals, we begin to notice folds of skins and
deep-cut wrinkles.
Another way of
looking at free-radical changes is to think of it as rust and our
aging process is similar to the rusting away of a once-intact piece of
metal. Oxygen itself is free radicals and so our breathing and
aerobic exercise generates free radicals that help us along the aging
process.
Substances that
prevent harmful effects of oxidation are antioxidants. This is why
specialists in anti-aging medicine prescribe a host of natural and
manufactured antioxidants to help combat the effects of aging. Many
vitamins and minerals and other
substances fight aging by acting as free-radical scavengers.
Source:
The American Academy
of Anti-Aging Medicine
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and
Drug Administration. The information in this article is not intended
to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All health concerns
should be addressed by a qualified health care professional.
