Au Naturale Nutrition
  • Welcome
  • Health
    • Printable Health Guides
    • Digestion
    • Health Education
    • Holistic Lifestyle
    • Making Smart Food Choices
    • Superstar Foods
    • Nutrients & Supplements
    • Weight Issues
  • Beauty
    • Beauty & Aging Articles
    • Homemade Beauty Recipes
    • Natural Beauty Resources
    • Skin & Aging course
  • Recipes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches & Salads
    • Dinners
    • Broth, Stews, Soups
    • Vegetables & Sides
    • Breads & Rolls
    • Muffins & Sweet Breads
    • Cookies & Sweet Treats
    • Condiments
    • Beverages
  • Go Shopping
    • Online Resources
    • Beauty & Personal Care Items
    • Jenny's Favorites
    • Grocery Shopping List (printable)
  • FAQ
    • Health Q's
    • Beauty Q's
    • Recipe Q's
    • Shopping Q's
    • Expert Resources
  • Blog
  • E-Books/Courses
    • Make a FRESH START with Whole Foods (FREE e-Book)
    • Prettier by the Plate (FREE e-Book)
    • Time Defying Skin (e-course)
Picture

Why Do We (and Our Skin) Grow Older? - Part 1

4/27/2018

0 Comments

 
If you're concerned about aging well, it's important to understand the reasons why we grow older. There are several theories that all play a role. The good news is that once you understand the reasons, you can take steps to positively influence your health and grow older gracefully.
Once childhood ends and we stop growing up, we start growing older. We notice many progressive changes in all parts of our body, how we feel, and it shows outwardly on our skin, too. But why does aging happen in the first place? There are several process happening at once...
​
In general, the aging process happens because there are many negative changes that occur in your cardiovascular system and your respiratory system. These changes lead to the poor delivery of oxygen and nutrients to your body. In a nutshell, the body’s ability to nourish and repair itself is impaired and aging ensues.

In your skin, the aging process leads to changes in its structure, how it functions, and how it appears. The most common skin issues are sagging, wrinkles, skin disorders, dryness, thinning, vascular problems, and pigment changes.

If you're concerned about aging well, it's important to understand the reasons why we grow older. There are several theories that all play a role. The good news is that once you understand the reasons, you can take steps to positively influence your health and grow older gracefully. 

Why do we age? Let's explore further....
Picture


​Oxidation

There are many theories as to why aging occurs, and the basis of many is oxidation.  

Science lesson: Damaged cells that have lost an electron become "free radicals" and they search to steal an electron from another molecule. This sets off a destructive chain reaction called "oxidative stress" or oxidation. This leads to a decline in health and biological functions. 

The truck in the photo above is rusty - that's an example of oxidation. Imagine the equivalent going on inside your body. Not good! Oxidation is a natural byproduct of your metabolism, but lifestyle and environmental factors such as pollution, pesticides, stress, alcohol intake, poor nutrition, overeating, and sun exposure can increase the production of free radicals.

Oxidation affects the aging of the skin because:
  • Over time, the protective antioxidants found in the skin are greatly reduced.
  • Oxidation causes the degradation of collagen and elastin within the skin.

What can we do about oxidation? A LOT! Thankfully, a diet rich in antioxidants will help protect your cell membranes, neutralize the free radicals, and prevent cellular and tissue damage.

How do you stop an avocado from browning (oxidizing)? You put lemon or lime juice on it. Why? The juice contains vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant!
  • Learn more about antioxidants and vitamin C.
  • Some of the worst foods that cause oxidation are unhealthy oils. My Guide to Fats and Oils. 
Picture


​Inflammation

If you are sick or injured, your body's intelligent immune system protects you by sending inflammation to a specific area for targeted healing. However, an unhealthy diet, toxins in your body or environment, obesity, hidden infections, and many types of stress can cause your body to be in constant fight-mode. Then, inflammation is becomes chronic and systemic. This can be the spark that ignites the fire of accelerated aging, illness, and disease. This destructive chronic inflammation also causes oxidation damage, (it's a vicious cycle), and it also affects the skin.   

However, inflammation can be controlled by eliminating or reducing the causes, plus eating whole foods that are rich in nutrients.

Read my awesome posts about:
  • Inflammation
  • Stress and Your Health
  • Eliminating Toxins
​
Picture


​Glycation

​You are aware of the browning process that occurs in most foods when they are heated; like in baked goods or barbecued foods. Well, that’s glycation, another reason why your body ages.

Glycation happens when sugar (or glucose) gets bound to the proteins and enzymes in your body. Glycation produces Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs), which play an detrimental role in aging. The body’s proteins, lipids (fats), and DNA can be targets of AGEs. Inflammation and oxidation both accelerate AGE formation.  

In the skin, AGEs accumulate in long-lived proteins such as structural collagen. They contribute to skin aging by causing cross-linking, which deteriorates collagen, elastin, and the skin's water-holding components. AGEs also highly accumulate in skin that has been over-exposed to the sun. Smoking accelerates the formation of AGEs, too.

AGEs are found in processed foods and in foods that are fried, cooked longer, or cooked at higher temperatures causing more browning. Eating whole foods, antioxidants, raw foods, and cooking with herbs and spices decreases glycation and damage from AGEs. Because sugar is involved in glycation (plus oxidation and inflammation), keeping your blood sugar balanced and avoiding refined grains and sugary products is extremely helpful to protect the skin and forestall aging. 

Read my posts:
  • The Guide to Choosing Carbohydrates
  • Heart Disease & the Glycemic Index/Load
  • The Benefits of Raw Foods

​NOW, CLICK HERE TO READ PART 2 of this article!  I'll introduce two additional aging theories that you may only hear about from someone who takes a holistic approach to health. And they're goodies!!!
​
​Want to learn much more?

Take my e-course about the skin & how to age gracefully:

​Time Defying Skin discusses the causes of aging that you have control over. The keys to youthful skin and feeling healthy may not be that complicated or expensive after all. A nourishing diet and healthy lifestyle practices are the natural solution. It's never too early or too late. ​Take the course today!​
Click for a big discount!
Picture

Pin it:
If you're concerned about aging well (and your skin), it's important to understand the reasons why we grow older. There are several theories that all play a role. The good news is that once you understand the reasons, you can take steps to positively influence your health and grow older gracefully.
If you're concerned about aging well (and your skin), it's important to understand the reasons why we grow older. There are several theories that all play a role. The good news is that once you understand the reasons, you can take steps to positively influence your health and grow older gracefully.


​Sources:
  • Callaghan, T., & Wilhelm, K. (2008). A review of ageing and an examination of clinical methods in the assessment of ageing skin. Part I: Cellular and molecular perspectives of skin ageing. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 30(5), 313-322. doi:10.1111/j.1468-2494.2008.00454.x
  • Gkogkolou, P., & Böhm, M. (2012). Advanced glycation end products: Key players in skin aging? Dermato-Endocrinology, 4(3), 259-270. doi:10.4161/derm.22028
  • Haas, E., & Levin, B. (2006). Staying healthy with nutrition: The complete guide to diet and nutritional medicine (21st-century ed.). Berkeley: Celestial Arts.
  • Hyman, M. (2006). UltraMetabolism: Awaken the fat-burning DNA hidden in your body : The simple plan for automatic weight loss. New York: Scribner.
  • Pizzorno, J. (2015, May 3). Naturopathic Approach to Healthy Aging (Glowing Skin Summit) [Online interview].
  • Scali, E., & Iorio, A. (2014). Anatomy and the Aging Process of the Face. In Minimally Invasive Procedures for Facial Rejuvenation. Foster City,CA: OMICS Group eBooks.
  • Schmid, D., Muggli, R., & Zulli, F. (2002). Collagen glycation and skin aging. Retrieved July 28, 2015, from https://mibellebiochemistry.com/app/uploads/2015/03/GSP-T-for-Skin_Collagen-glycation-and-skin-aging-CT-2002.pdf


0 Comments



Leave a Reply.

Jenny Yelle, MHNE  Holistic Wellness Educator & founder of Au Naturale Nutrition

Jenny Yelle, MHNE  Holistic Wellness Educator


​Hello lovelies! Thanks for visiting Au Naturale Nutrition and sharing my passion for
 holistic living and whole foods. I love to help my readers take a natural approach to beauty and aging gracefully.  Radiate beautiful health!  
​(read more) 

Follow
​Au Naturale Nutrition:

Picture


​Download both of my FREE e-Books!

Your natural beauty is intricately tied to your health and well-being. Learn which foods and nutrients are best for boosting your beauty & aging gracefully.  Prettier by the Plate!
Click HERE! It's FREE!!
Enjoy your complimentary copy of the e-Book: Make a FRESH START with Whole Foods.  Learn the importance of whole-food nutrition and how it relates to your health and well-being. Replace refined foods with nutrient-rich whole foods.  Plus, learn to adopt healthy eating habits that last a lifetime.  It's great for a new beginning and a healthier YOU!  FREE!!!
Click HERE. It's FREE!!

Take my e-course!

No homework or tests, just great information about holistic beauty & wellness:
Time Defying Skin (e-course):  A natural approach to aging beautifully. Use nutrition to look young for your age, feel vibrant, and live longer! (and get a 71% discount!!)
Get a discount by using the link here:
Enroll today!
Picture

​Quick Links:

  • Start Here
  • Blog Page​
  • FREE eBook​
  • Take my Course about Aging Skin​
  • Jenny in the Media​
  • Printable Health Guides​​
  • Go Shopping
By accessing or using any page on AuNaturaleNutrition.com, you agree that you have read, understood, and will abide by the:
​

​Terms of Service & Conditions  |  Full Disclaimer   |  Privacy Policy  |  Copyright & Recipe Policy   |  Affiliate Disclosure   |  Comments Policy   

​The information on this website is for educational purposes only.  It has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease. You assume full responsibility and liability for your own actions. 
 ​
Any/all of the links on AuNaturaleNutrition.com are affiliate links from which I receive a small commission from sales of certain items. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you!
© 2013-2021.  Au Naturale™ Nutrition.  All Rights Reserved. 
DMCA.com Protection Status
Picture
Photos used under Creative Commons from Bennilover, ainudil, AJC1, OakleyOriginals, Tweetspeak Poetry, symphony of love, judy dean, daryl_mitchell, HarmonyRae, Miroslav Vajdić, larryjh1234, MAURO CATEB, jfcherry, edgarzunigajr, Rob.Bertholf, TANAKA Juuyoh (田中十洋), jessicafm, mccun934, Leimenide, jamonation, Jan Davis Ruthig, aMichiganMom, oneVillage Initiative, tjmwatson, quinn.anya, trix0r, fred_v, Chris Yarzab, thebittenword.com, nosha, brownpau, nan palmero, gruntzooki, leoncillo sabino, pasotraspaso, Stacy Spensley
  • Welcome
  • Health
    • Printable Health Guides
    • Digestion
    • Health Education
    • Holistic Lifestyle
    • Making Smart Food Choices
    • Superstar Foods
    • Nutrients & Supplements
    • Weight Issues
  • Beauty
    • Beauty & Aging Articles
    • Homemade Beauty Recipes
    • Natural Beauty Resources
    • Skin & Aging course
  • Recipes
    • Breakfasts
    • Lunches & Salads
    • Dinners
    • Broth, Stews, Soups
    • Vegetables & Sides
    • Breads & Rolls
    • Muffins & Sweet Breads
    • Cookies & Sweet Treats
    • Condiments
    • Beverages
  • Go Shopping
    • Online Resources
    • Beauty & Personal Care Items
    • Jenny's Favorites
    • Grocery Shopping List (printable)
  • FAQ
    • Health Q's
    • Beauty Q's
    • Recipe Q's
    • Shopping Q's
    • Expert Resources
  • Blog
  • E-Books/Courses
    • Make a FRESH START with Whole Foods (FREE e-Book)
    • Prettier by the Plate (FREE e-Book)
    • Time Defying Skin (e-course)