What really causes aging?

There are a multitude of different mechanisms and biological processes that cause aging. However one important one that should be mentioned is homeostasis.     

 The concept of homeostasis is very important to the biological human aging process as homeostasis is important in maintaining the body in equilibrium by aiding in the support of the body’s functions, by providing protection from traumatic experiences, facilitating movement, mineral storage and blood cell production. However, the body’s ability to maintain itself at equilibrium decreases over the life span. This mean that as an individual ages the body’s ability to sustain its functions in a normal range decreases. Although every individual experiences homeostasis it can vary from individual to individual.  Homeostasis is not to be mistaken by symptoms of abuses and misuses of the body. For example, someone who experiences repeated physical traumas, whether moderate to severe, over an extended period of time results in damaging the ability of the body to maintain normal ranges. Thus, this individual is more likely to deteriorate bio-physically when compared to someone who has not experienced such traumas. Homeostasis is the concept by which the body’s ability to recover from a decline or incline in functions is described. However, this decline or incline must be for a short period of time in order for no long-term damage to occur. For example, as one ages the amount of fat that the body is able to store reduces causing the body to work harder at keeping itself in a normal range. However, maintaining this normal range doesn’t happen as all the functions that would normally be notified of the deviation from the normal range have slowed down making it harder for the body to restore itself to normal. Essentially, the body’s ability to maintain itself in equilibrium can keep the body’s neurological functions working normally and as appropriated. However, a deviation for an extended period of facilitates the aging process because the body’s processes are slowing down and simultaneously working hard. Essentially, with the decline of homeostasis comes aging, as certain body functions are no longer working at the normal range. 

Have you ever met someone who as they get older appears younger than others of similar age? These individuals have tapped into the fountain of youth! Some of it may be genetics, but it seems that a large part of staying looking young has to do with lifestyle!

I have witnessed teenage anorexics appear 20 years older, and older individuals who look twenty years younger! It is amazing to me how many of my own relatives look so young for their age! I have relatives nearing their 90s who have very active lifestyles and are extremely energetic, so this very topic has always peaked my curiosity! I even knew a woman who lived until 106! I am often mistaken for being at least 5 years younger than I actually am! I like to have fun with this and say that I am even 5 years older than I am!

So, what is the secret? It seems that individuals who have tapped into the fountain of youth take good care of their health and themselves-no smoking, very little alcohol intake, regular check-ups to the doctor and dentist, no substance abuse, well-balanced diet. Interestingly enough, some of the "old timers" I know never even exercised at a gym, but were very active in their work, home, and social lives! People who stay young seem to keep their minds and spirits young. Mostly they seem to be better able to handle negativity in a more constructive way, have motivation, more resilience, are more future-oriented instead of problem saturated! Remember youthfulness comes from within, so take care of yourself mentally, emotionally, physically, and you will look and feel younger!