Oxidative Stress and Premature Aging

Oxidative Stress and Premature Aging

What is oxidative stress?

It’s the imbalance between your body’s ability to counteract the production of free radicals. As free radicals are produced, they create havoc in the body and your body is supposed to be able to keep them at bay by neutralizing them with antioxidants. The biggest cause of oxidative stress is a lack of antioxidants that fight free radicals.

Free Radicals

Okay, we should probably discuss free radicals before you go any further. You have very likely heard the term before but not had a detailed explanation or understanding about what they really are. It’s a molecule that contains oxygen and has at least one unpaired electron. It is for this reason that they are reactive to other molecules.

Generally speaking, oxygen-containing molecules aren’t reactive, but some of them go through a change within the body that transforms them into reactive ones. That doesn’t mean that all of the reactive species are harmful, however, free radicals are nasty.

They can affect DNA, and sap protein or their electrons to stabilize themselves. That might not sound like such a big deal, but this causes a destabilization of the other molecules, which then triggers a large free radical chain reaction. They are probably most famous for the fact that they can cause cancer.

For the record, antioxidants are molecules within cells that are supposed to eradicate the potential damage that free radicals cause. When an imbalance between the two takes place, oxidative stress occurs.

Oxidative Stress Damage

There are a variety of issues that oxidative stress can cause – some of the more serious issues include Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, cancer, heart disorders, heart failure, heart attack, blood vessel disorders, gene mutations, chronic fatigue syndrome, inflammatory diseases, and atherosclerosis.

Another issue, though, is that of premature aging. Of course, this may pale in comparison to those listed above; however, it is still a very real and imminent threat.

The biggest cause of oxidative stress damage to your skin is due to UV rays Of course, this makes perfect sense when you consider just how damaging the sun can be to your skin if you head out without sun protection. This means it is vital to wear sunscreen in order to prevent the major cause of oxidative stress damage in premature aging. Additionally, free radicals break down collagen production, which is a major cause of premature aging.

Fighting Free Radicals

If you want to reduce the risk of oxidative stress then the most effective way to do so is by fighting free radicals. So, here’s how to do that.

  • Avoid hydrogenated fats.
  • Improve your indoor air quality and avoid pollutants and pollution.
  • Do not consume food that has been cooked in oils at a high heat.
  • Do not smoke or spend time in the company of smokers.
  • Avoid drinking water that has been chlorine treated.
  • Avoid dehydration.
  • Be mindful of your sugar intake and animal proteins.
  • Avoid living near waste dumps or too close to power lines.
  • Avoid food containing preservatives.
  • Only take medications when absolutely necessary.
  • Avoid using cleaning supplies that contain harmful chemicals.
  • Limit your alcohol intake.
  • Avoid exposure to radiation.
  • Buy organic to avoid pesticides.
  • Take steps to self-care to avoid stress.
  • Wear sunblock every time you leave the house, no matter how short the trip (especially if you live in a warm and sunny region).

Your body is creating free radicals on a daily basis, but that doesn’t mean you have to fall prey to its damage of premature aging and potential disease. Take every opportunity listed above to avoid oxidative stress.

An easy way to fight free radicals is a sachet of Soul a day! Click here to read more!

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Author: Lesley

We believe in a healthier and happier world through our choices. Finding solutions to today’s challenges and making it easier to choose the best ones is our passion and our business. When we started using Rain ® SOUL we couldn’t believe the difference it made! After years of challenges, Mike was able to enjoy the benefits of SOUL and Lesley felt the support her joints needed! We would love to share more testimonials and stories with you and find out how we can help improve your personal and financial health!! – Mike & Lesley Fahey

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