But there’s another measurement of age that has a far bigger impact…

Known as epigenetic or biological age, it presents a more accurate picture of how well your body’s cells and tissues are functioning. That makes it a more precise measure of age and risk for age-related disease.

The good news is that there are ways to slow down the epigenetic aging process and push back the onset of aging-related diseases, potentially increasing both your healthspan and lifespan.

And research has revealed one of the simplest and most effective ways to reverse your body’s aging clock is something you can do right now…

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Delivering measurable reductions in biological age

In research from Tohoku University, scientists reviewed existing evidence from studies showing that regular exercise, physical activity and fitness may influence epigenetic aging and potentially reverse it.

The results were compelling enough that you may just want to get up and dance — or walk, run, lift weights, go swimming, or engage in any type of exercise that floats your boat.

That’s because the deep dive into study after study revealed the incredible benefits of staying active for reducing epigenetic aging, including:

• A study in mice that demonstrated that endurance and resistance training reduced age-related molecular changes in muscle tissue.
• A human study that found exercising reduced biological age markers in blood and skeletal muscle.
• Research that revealed that sedentary middle-aged women could reduce their epigenetic age by two years after just eight weeks of combined aerobic and strength training.
• Another study that found older men with higher oxygen uptake levels, a key measure of cardiovascular fitness, had significantly slower epigenetic aging.

According to the scientists, “These findings suggest that maintaining physical fitness delays epigenetic aging in multiple organs and supports the notion that exercise as a geroprotector confers benefits to various organs.”

Considering all that can go wrong without exercise, I’m not really surprised.

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Which organs benefit most?

The research also was able to show that while exercise is excellent for slowing aging across your entire body, specific organs grab even bigger benefits.

Obviously, exercise offers benefits for your skeletal muscles, which are used to move your body as you exercise, allowing them to stay strong and healthy.

However, beyond muscle, regular physical training may also slow the aging process in your heart, liver, fat tissue, and even your gut (which controls a significant portion of your immune system).

The scientists do say, though, that if you want to experience the anti-aging benefits of exercise to the fullest extent, the key is to leverage a structured exercise routine that is planned, repetitive, and goal-directed.

That’s because regular exercise, like riding an exercise bike, playing tennis, going for a jog or lifting weights, appears to have more potent effects on slowing epigenetic aging than general physical activity, such as walking or doing household chores.

In addition to exercise, restricting calories can also help reduce aging and even mortality risk. So you have choices. Do what feels right for you.

Sources:

Exercise may actually reverse your body’s aging clock – ScienceDaily

The post Doing this regularly could help you age in reverse appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But what if it’s really more akin to an infection?

That’s what researchers say advanced genetic sequencing science is revealing — along with potential treatments capable of targeting the protein behind senescence (the process of deterioration) to stop aging’s “spread.”

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Aging’s dirty little secret

Past research has shown that aging isn’t limited to one area of the body. Instead, when it starts, it begins to diffuse throughout the body.

Sort of like an infection…

One day, usually after the age of 40, you may start feeling arthritis-like issues in, say, your knee. By the following year, not only is your knee aching and stiff, but your back, neck and other areas have joined in.

Before you know it, each year you’re suffering from another sign of aging in another part of your body. But your best friend seems to be doing just fine.

While researchers have been well aware of the spreading effects of aging throughout the body, the mechanisms of how exactly it happens haven’t been so easy to nail down.

Cue a team of researchers from Korea University College of Medicine…

They were able to prove that cellular aging (a process known as senescence) begins due to a protein known as HMGB1 — we’ll call it “aging’s dirty little secret” — that potentially accelerates the aging process as it spreads from one part of the body to another.

They also may have found a way to stop it…

Sending out the aging signal

Their research, published in the journal Metabolism, revealed that this protein acts as an “aging messenger” that carries signals from cell to cell, transforming otherwise healthy cells into aged and dysfunctional ones.

Here’s how it works…

When HMGB1 is in an oxygen-rich environment, it functions normally. However, when there is a lack of oxygen in the cellular environment that surrounds the protein, it becomes reduced — and that’s when things go bad.

HMGB1 then binds to cellular receptors, activating the JAK/STAT and NF-κB pathways in the cells, which are known to promote inflammation and cue the cells to age.

This triggers a molecular signaling cascade: Aging cells produce more HMGB1, which spreads to other cells, activating their senescence pathways as well — in effect causing aging to spread like a virus from cell to cell.

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Putting an aging ‘do not disturb’ sign on your cells

The good news in all of this is that when the scientists treated mice with antibodies that block HMGB1 from activating the JAK/STAT pathway, they were able to reduce age-related dysfunction.

What does that mean for us?

Well, they hope that in the future, a drug treatment can be developed using a class of medications, known as JAK2 inhibitors, to essentially keep HMGB1 from activating the pathways it used to spread its dirty work — otherwise known as aging.

I’m excited about that news — but even more excited about all the natural compounds already known to be JAK2 inhibitors. And many of them are already compounds associated with healthy aging.

I’m sure you’ll recognize a few of these, and may already be up to speed on their anti-aging reputations:

• Resveratrol –A potent antioxidant found in the skin of red grapes, and responsible for widespread interest in the field of anti-aging research, made popular by Dr. David Sinclair and colleagues in the early 2000s.
• Curcumin – The active component of turmeric that offers potential anti-aging effects due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may combat age-related disease and promote healthy aging.
• Bergamottin –  A natural antioxidant phenol found in the peel of the bergamot orange, grapefruit and lemon, with anti-senescence, anti-aging and immune-modulating effects.
• Garcinol –  Extracted from Garcinia indica fruit, peel and leaves, and is a powerful antioxidant.
• Quercetin – A flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables that shows promise for anti-aging due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and senolytic properties.

They won’t stop aging, but I have my doubts that any drug would ever be able to do that either. But they can certainly help you age more healthily.

Sources:

Aging Spreads Through The Body Like An Infection, And This Protein Could Be To Blame — Study Finds

Propagation of senescent phenotypes by extracellular HMGB1 is dependent on its redox state — Metabolism

The Role of Natural Products as Inhibitors of JAK/STAT Signaling Pathways in Glioblastoma Treatment — NIH

Quercetin as a JAK–STAT inhibitor: a potential role in solid tumors and neurodegenerative diseases — BMC

The post The protein that causes aging to spread like an infection appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

So, when I heard that a particular compound already known for supporting healthy blood vessels and blood pressure was making waves in anti-aging skincare — I had to tell you about it.

Pterostilbene is an antioxidant produced by plants to protect themselves against viruses, bacteria and fungi. It’s found in abundance in blueberries, and it’s a cousin to resveratrol.

You may already know about the anti-aging potential of resveratrol. It enhances skin elasticity by stimulating collagen production and protecting against oxidative damage.

But here’s why pterostilbene may have resveratrol beat…

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Significant breakthrough in just 28 days

One area where pterostilbene outperforms resveratrol is in “bioavailability” — a term that refers to the amount of a substance that enters the bloodstream after it’s introduced into the body and can have an active effect.

Resveratrol’s bioavailability is about one percent (though pairing it with grape seed extract can improve that significantly). But from the get-go, pterostilbene’s bioavailability is estimated to be around 80-95%!

When pterostilbene is consumed from foods or supplements, it’s absorbed through the stomach lining and cell membranes to reach the bloodstream. But what happens when it’s applied to our skin?

To find out, researchers in China had participants apply an emulsion containing it on one side of their face and a control cream on the other.

After just 28 days, the scientists had this to say: “Our results indicated that the pterostilbene emulsion remarkably improved skin elasticity, firmness, and reduced wrinkles, such as forehead, undereye, and Crow’s feet wrinkles.”

It also:

• Increased the thickness of the epidermis layer
• Enhanced collagen and elastic fibers
• And minimized skin pores

In fact, the improvements seen in the skin were so significant that the researchers say pterostilbene “may change the way we approach anti-aging skincare formulations.”

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From youthful skin to youthful blood vessels

If your goal is healthy, younger-looking skin, leveraging the power of blueberries to turn back the hands of time could be the key.

But that’s not the only benefit you can expect…

As I mentioned earlier, pterostilbene is also known for promoting healthy blood pressure. Here are just a few of the mechanisms of action supported by research:

Antioxidant activity. Oxidative stress interferes with the normal function of the endothelial cells that line artery walls. By inhibiting damage induced by oxidative stress, pterostilbene helps alleviate hypertension.

Anti-inflammatory activity. Pterostilbene can successfully reverse the elevation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Not only does this help relieve inflammation of the endothelial lining of the arteries, but it also exerts anti-atherosclerotic activity. Atherosclerosis is a condition that can age you before you even know you have it.

And that’s the connection between skin aging and blood pressure — youthful arteries.

Blood vessels harden with age, poor habits and exposure to environmental toxins, oxidative stress and inflammation. That results in loss of elasticity and changes in blood pressure. And when blood vessels lose their firmness, the walls of your arteries become prone to injury.

Those same saboteurs and those same changes to the tissue that make up your skin contribute to visible signs of aging.

So, from the inside out, it makes sense to include pterostilbene in your anti-aging routine, not only to help maintain the youthfulness of your skin, but of your blood vessels as well!

Sources:

Natural Molecule Shows Remarkable Anti-Aging Results After Just 28 Days — SciTechDaily

Bioavailability of resveratrol — Annals of the New York Academy of Science

Effects of Pterostilbene on Cardiovascular Health and Disease — Current Issues in Molecular Biology

The post The breakthrough that reversed skin aging in 28 days appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

That’s why their nickname is the “powerhouses of our cells.”

And as mighty power generators, mitochondria are associated with longevity — as long as they’re functioning optimally.

But when they aren’t, cellular energy production wanes, oxidative stress runs rampant, mitochondria become prone to DNA mutations, and the cellular processes that normally regulate programmed cell death and stress response become dysfunctional.

All this eventually leads to cellular decline and ultimately what we know as the aging process.

But if mitochondria eventually fail, why are they linked with longevity?

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The key to age reversal

Aging may be inevitable, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing we can do to slow it and enjoy more healthy years — especially now that we know mitochondria are the key.

In studies using C. elegans, a worm model often used in research, scientists saw that interventions could improve mitochondrial function — and extend lifespan.

In other words, our mitochondria could be revived — or motivated to keep churning out that good old ATP,  and that’s made it a prime target for longevity research.

In fact, scientists believe mitochondria are behind the life-lengthening effects of calorie restriction, which has been proven to slow the pace of aging in humans.

Thankfully, eating less isn’t our only option to support mitochondria’s healthy aging effects…  

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a micronutrient found in some foods like natto, parsley and green tea, that helps mitochondria produce ATP. But it also increases the number of mitochondria, an important benefit since our bodies produce less as we age.

But longevity is just one part of aging research where mitochondria are breaking ground…

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Mitochondria and skin aging

Experts have begun to explore the mitochondria’s role in cellular rejuvenation and the direct impacts that can have on the visible signs of aging.

“Mitoscientist” Dr. Keshav K. Singh is a world leader in mitochondrial health and disease and founder of the Mitochondria Research and Medicine Society in the US and India.

His research at the University of Alabama in Birmingham includes how mitochondria can slow, potentially even reverse, the signs of skin aging, opening promising avenues for therapeutic development.

Currently, that involves developing strategies to prevent, slow and treat skin wrinkles and hair loss in mice — and translating those benefits to humans.

Similar to the research I mentioned earlier using a worm model, Dr. Singh’s research involves a mouse whose age can be manipulated at will — actually made older and then, younger again — providing an unprecedented opportunity to understand tissue-specific aging.

It may be years before Dr. Singh’s research translates to products or procedures that change how our skin ages, but a prescription for healthy mitochondria may already exist…

10 micronutrients that support your mitochondria

Experts in aesthetic medicine in France are already working on a prescription for healthy mitochondria to support healthier aging.

Their answer is micro nutrition, consisting of PQQ and nine other ingredients, that protects mitochondria from oxidative damage and stimulates the growth of new mitochondria.

Their suggestions include:

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which helps mitochondria make ATP, the fuel that powers most cellular functions. CoQ10 is also a powerful antioxidant that helps control oxidative stress.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) is a form of vitamin B3 very popular in regenerative medicine. It’s an essential coenzyme in regulating metabolism, longevity, DNA repair and producing energy.

Erythrothioneine is an amino acid present in high quantities in mushrooms and is called a “longevity vitamin” by some. It guards mitochondria from free radical damage. It can also be applied to the skin to reduce signs of aging and sun damage.

Alpha-lipoic acid is an antioxidant that increases cellular levels of NAD. It may also enhance the anti-aging activity of sirtuins, genes that are involved in the regulation of metabolism and longevity.

The B vitamins, known as “respiratory’ vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12) help balance magnesium in the body. Magnesium helps transport ATP.

Acetyl-L-Carnitine increases overall cellular respiration, and with D-ribose and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) optimizes respiratory chain activity — a process involved in generating power to synthesize ATP.

Lastly, omega-3 fatty acids, because they support the structure and function of mitochondrial membranes.

Sources:

The Mitochondrial Basis of Aging — Journal Molecular Cell

The Mitodesign Lab — keshavsingh.org

Exploring the role of mitochondria transfer/transplant and their long-non-coding RNAs in regenerative therapies for skin aging — Mitochondrion

The mitochondria at the very heart of the anti-aging medicine — Anti-Age

The post 10 micronutrients that turn the key on age reversal appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

I’ve found the ones that are genuinely effective contain very specific ingredients, like retinol. Retinol, a form of vitamin A, is available in over-the-counter skin creams and serums and by prescription. It works by exfoliating the skin and increasing collagen production, resulting in skin with a plumper, more youthful appearance.

If you’re in menopause and are taking an estrogen supplement, you may notice a change in your skin’s appearance. That’s because estrogen can raise collagen count and increase skin hydration. For this reason, some anti-aging creams contain natural forms of estrogen.

These are both well-established skincare ingredients. But scientists are constantly looking for the next wave of anti-aging substances. And they’ve found potential in more hormones produced by the human body…

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Certain hormones may be key

A team of international researchers decided to study the hormones pivotal in skin aging to better understand the connection between the two. These included insulin-like growth factor 1, growth hormone, estrogens, retinoids and melatonin. Some of these were found to have incredible and unexpected biological effects on skin function and hair aging, as highlighted by distinct genetic deficiency syndromes.

The researchers also reviewed the emerging roles of additional endocrine players. These include alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone, which is responsible for skin pigmentation; members of the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis; oxytocin; endocannabinoids, which are found in CBD products; and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor modulators. These were discovered to have very promising effects, such as on UV-induced genotoxic stress, which is involved in the development of photoaging and pigment synthesis within skin and hair.

“Our paper highlights key hormone players that orchestrate pathways of skin aging such as degradation of connective tissue (leading to wrinkling), stem cell survival and loss of pigment (leading to hair graying),” says lead author Dr. Markus Böhm of the University of Münster in Münster, Germany.

“Some of the hormones we studied have anti-aging properties and may be used in the future as agents to prevent skin aging,” Böhm says.

The skin is the largest organ in the body and experiences both intrinsic (or chronological) aging and extrinsic aging caused by environmental factors such as sun exposure.

“Skin is not only a target for various hormones that control pathways of skin aging but itself is certainly the largest and richest site for hormone production besides classical endocrine glands,” Böhm says.

“Further research into these hormones may offer opportunities to develop new therapeutics for treating and preventing skin aging,” he adds.

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Getting your hands on these hormones

Some of the hormones researched in this study are inaccessible. For instance, you can’t go into a drugstore and purchase a bottle of insulin-like growth factor 1 or growth hormone off the shelf.

However, others — like melatonin — are readily available. Melatonin is especially intriguing as a potential anti-aging substance for the skin because it is inexpensive and well-tolerated. It’s also an antioxidant as well as a regulator of mitochondrial metabolism.

You can purchase melatonin supplements either in drugstores or online. There are also skincare products that are formulated with melatonin. Just make sure you’re getting these products from reputable, high-quality sources.

Endocannabinoids, such as those found in CBD products, can also be obtained in drugstores and online. These substances have been found to promote an increase in new cell growth while decreasing the number of damaged cells. You can find endocannabinoids in both skincare and supplement forms, though the same caveat holds true as with melatonin. In fact, you need to be especially careful when buying CBD products, as some contain little to no CBD or get their CBD from impure sources.

Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” is one of four main neurotransmitters in the brain responsible for helping you feel happy. It’s not available in over-the-counter form, but there are ways to increase your body’s production:

• Get a hug from a family member or friend
• Have an orgasm
• Sing (or cry)
• Exercise
• Pet a dog

Also, make sure you’re getting enough vitamin D, as it may be involved in the regulation and function of oxytocin.

Sources:

Hormones may have therapeutic potential to prevent wrinkles, hair graying — ScienceDaily

Endocrine Controls of Skin Aging — Endocrine Reviews

Anti-aging – Statistics & Facts — Statista

Retinol — Cleveland Clinic

Hormones in Personal Care Products — Breast Cancer Prevention Partners

The post Harnessing the anti-aging potential of hormones appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Thankfully, I’ve maintained my natural color through the magic of hair dye for decades. But I’m a little less eager to visit the hair salon because of evidence linking regular use of hair dye with an increase in breast cancer risk.

Wouldn’t it be great if all those messy, expensive and potentially toxic trips to the hair salon or the hair dye aisle of the drugstore to cover those grays weren’t necessary?

Luckily, researchers in Japan may have hit upon a solution — and unlike hair dye, this one is all-natural, offering a safe and effective alternative.

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The anti-graying power of luteolin

A study led by researchers at Nagoya University explored the effects of three antioxidants — luteolin, hesperetin and diosmetin — on black-furred mice bred to experience graying similar to humans.

The results surprised the researchers. Of the three, only luteolin — found in vegetables such as celery, broccoli, carrots, onions and peppers — appeared to have any impact on the graying effect.

Mice given luteolin retained their black fur, while their untreated counterparts turned gray. The effect was observed regardless of whether the antioxidant was administered internally or externally.

“While we expected that antioxidants may also have anti-graying effects, only luteolin, not hesperetin or diosmetin, demonstrated significant effects,” says study lead Dr. Masashi Kato of Nagoya University. “This finding suggests that luteolin may have a unique medicinal effect that prevents graying.”

The researchers observed a close link between luteolin’s effectiveness and its influence on endothelins, which are proteins that play a crucial role in cellular communication. The study found luteolin treatments preserved the expression of endothelins and their receptor. This action means that the signaling pathways remain healthy, which prevents the decline in melanocyte activity that typically leads to graying.

“Interestingly, luteolin had limited effects on hair cycles, indicating that its primary impact is on pigmentation rather than hair growth or shedding,” Kato says. “This targeted action makes luteolin a particularly intriguing candidate for addressing age-related hair graying.”

These findings and the similarities between the graying processes in the mouse models and humans open the door for potential applications in human hair care.

Given these promising results, study lead Dr. Takumi Kagawa of Nagoya University believes there will be broader applications in age-related research.

“It would be interesting to investigate whether luteolin’s anti-aging effects could also be applicable to other age-related changes, including balding,” Kagawa says.

In fact, luteolin’s potential in age-related research extends beyond hair graying. It could also be beneficial in addressing other age-related issues, such as skin aging and cognitive decline. Further research in these areas could open up new possibilities for its use in anti-aging treatments.

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Where to find the anti-graying antioxidant

As research progresses, luteolin could become a key ingredient in hair care regimens, helping individuals preserve their natural hair color as they age.

Until then, if you’re experiencing graying hair and are reluctant to hit the salon, you may want to try eating more luteolin-rich foods like the ones mentioned above. Not only will you potentially preserve your hair color, but you will also reap the anti-inflammatory and memory-boosting benefits of this powerful antioxidant. It can also help with pain relief.

In addition to vegetables, luteolin is found in many herbs used in Chinese traditional medicine, including ginkgo nut, horny goat weed, chrysanthemum, red sage, skull cap and wormwood. It is also available in my favorite healthy oil — olive oil — and peppermint, rosemary and thyme.

The study notes that luteolin is already available as a supplement for both topical and oral use. If you decide to take it as a supplement, make sure it’s of high quality, as some luteolin supplements do not contain the amount they do.

If you are on blood thinners or have kidney disease or type 2 diabetes, it’s probably best to get luteolin from food sources.

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Sources:

Luteolin May Prevent Hair from Graying, Study Finds — Integrative Practitioner

Anti-Graying Effects of External and Internal Treatments with Luteolin on Hair in Model Mice — Antioxidants

Luteolin as a modulator of skin aging and inflammation — Journal Biofactors

Luteolin: A promising natural agent in management of pain in chronic conditions — Frontiers in Pain Research

Luteolin supplements: All that glitters is not gold — BioFactors

The post Luteolin: The antioxidant that kept hair from graying appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Known as Life’s Essential 8, it is a checklist of eight lifestyle behaviors (like exercise) and health factors (like controlling cholesterol) that are key factors for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health.

The first study using this new measurement tool showed that heart health in the United States is less than ideal, with 80 percent scoring at a low or moderate level.

Not great news.

And while it may seem like a no-brainer, another look at what happens when Life’s Essential 8 is adhered to may offer just the incentive we all need to get serious about our heart health…

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A healthy heart can make you six years younger

According to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023, having optimal cardiovascular health may slow the pace of biological aging.

Specifically, a high heart health score appears to slow biological aging and potentially stave off age-related diseases — essentially extending lifespan.

That’s the finding of researchers who took a close look at the association between heart and brain health — as measured by the Life’s Essential 8 checklist — and the biological aging process.

To start, the researchers compared the chronological (actual) age of each participant with their phenotypic age.

Phenotypic age is a measure of age based on the results of nine blood markers for metabolism, inflammation and organ function, including glucose, C-reactive protein, and creatinine.

They then calculated the subjects’ phenotypic age acceleration — or the difference between one’s phenotypic age and actual age. A higher phenotypic age acceleration indicates faster biological aging.

Participants with the highest cardiovascular health scores were, on average, biologically six years younger than their chronological age.

“We found that higher cardiovascular health is associated with decelerated biological aging, as measured by phenotypic age.

“We also found a dose-dependent association — as heart health goes up, biological aging goes down,” says study senior author Dr. Nour Makarem, an assistant professor of epidemiology at the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City.

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8 steps that can help you age slower

“Greater adherence to all Life’s Essential 8 metrics and improving your cardiovascular health can slow down your body’s aging process and have a lot of benefits down the line. Reduced biologic aging is not just associated with lower risk of chronic disease such as heart disease, it is also associated with longer life and lower risk of death,” Makarem said.

If you’d like to get on board, check out Life’s Essential 8. These key measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health consist of health behaviors (HB) and health factors (HF) that are modifiable and if improved, can reduce the risk for heart disease, stroke and other major health problems.

Life’s Essential 8 includes:

• Eat Better (HB)
• Be More Active (HB)
• Quit Tobacco (HB)
• Get Healthy Sleep (HB)
• Manage Weight (HF)
• Control Cholesterol (HF)
• Manage Blood Sugar (HF)
• Manage Blood Pressure (HF)

Print out this list and post it on your fridge. Find your weak spot and focus on improving it first. For me, that’s “Be More Active.”

That means I need to make an effort to practice a couple of hours of moderate to vigorous exercise every week. If you need tips on how to achieve that or any of the other recommendations on the list, just visit their site.

Nothing fancy or hard to follow — just some support in getting started and continuing along a path that could help you age slower and healthier!

Sources:

Heart Health Linked to Slower Aging — Neuroscience News

Life’s Essential 8 — American Heart Association

Only 1 in 5 people in the U.S. has optimal heart health — Eureka Alert

The post 8 steps to slow aging as much as six years appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

It’s where people travel abroad to receive treatment for various reasons, but the main attraction is the low cost of procedures they’d pay much more for in the U.S. Cosmetic medical tourism is immensely popular for that reason

I’ve heard good and bad things about medical tourism, and though it’s not my cup of tea, another travel-related benefit certainly is…

It’s called travel therapy and it could serve as a groundbreaking anti-aging intervention — no surgery, injections or hospital stay required.

According to researchers from Edith Cowan University, it could be the best way to defy premature aging…

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Slowing the trend toward disorder and death

For the first time, researchers have applied the theory of entropy to tourism and health benefits that could slow aging.

Scientists classify entropy as the general trend of the universe towards death and disorder. In humans, that translates to aging.

“Ageing, as a process, is irreversible. While it can’t be stopped, it can be slowed down,” says lead researcher Fangli Hu.

She and her team believe travel could slow aging by triggering changes that help the body sustain a low-entropy state.

That’s because travel and exposure to new surroundings and relaxing activities positively influence metabolic activities and may also trigger an adaptive immune system response.

That latter part is a big deal because with age, our adaptive immune response declines — along with the atrophy of the thymus, a gland that supplies immune cells when we’re young.

“Put simply, the self-defense system becomes more resilient. Hormones conducive to tissue repair and regeneration may be released and promote the self-healing system’s functioning.

“Leisurely travel activities might help alleviate chronic stress, dampen over-activation of the immune system and encourage normal functioning of the self-defense system. Engaging in recreation potentially releases tension and fatigue in the muscles and joints. This relief helps maintain the body’s metabolic balance and increases the anti-wear-and-tear system’s effectiveness. Organs and tissues can then remain in a low-entropy state.”

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Take a trip to slow aging — or try these anti-aging practices

So if you want a youthful boost, maybe a vacation is just what the doctor ordered! If you’ve been putting it off, you’ve got a great reason to make your plans now.

If travel abroad or to a resort isn’t possible, there are plenty of destinations right here in the U.S. and most likely, even in your home state, that could help you relax and trigger a low-entropy state the researchers mentioned.  

If travel isn’t possible, exercise could kick things into gear. The researchers noted the physical activities of travel such as walking, hiking, climbing or cycling, promote a low-entropy state.

And if you can handle intense exercise, you could also “wake up” your thymus. A couple of years ago, researchers found that 80-year-old endurance cyclists were producing the same level of T-cells as adults in their 20s!

Reducing oxidative damage can also help. Oxidative stress can suppress your T-cell response, which impairs the adaptive immune response. At the same time, reduced oxidative damage at the cellular level means slower biological aging.

The nutrient resveratrol, found in the skin of red grapes, helped spearhead research into anti-aging because of its effects against oxidative stress. Muscadine grapes have high levels of resveratrol and of course, you can find the anti-aging antioxidant in supplement form.

Sources:

Travel could be the best defense against aging — ScienceDaily

The post These scientists say travel could help us defy aging appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

I’m not a big meat eater, but I know I’d find it hard to walk away from yogurt, eggs and cheese.

But if I could do it for a few months and add a few years to my life on the other end? Now THAT’S something I’d consider.

A recent study tells me that this is entirely possible, with just a few changes to my diet for a short period of time…

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A vegan diet reduced biological age

Stanford University School of Medicine researchers have been able to show just how quickly a change of diet can slow aging… and who doesn’t want that?

They worked with 21 pairs of identical twins, assigning one twin in each pair to a vegan diet, while the other ate an omnivore diet — which includes both plant and animal-based foods.

Over just eight weeks, the twins on the vegan diet showed improvements in epigenetic markers associated with aging.

Think of these markers like clocks hidden in your genes: you might be forty years old (your chronological age), but the way your body “reads” your genes can affect your health risks and make your body younger than its years.

In fact, less biological aging was observed in the heart and liver, as well as in tissues making up the hormonal, inflammatory and metabolic systems.

That means these twins, if they encounter heart trouble, blood sugar problems, liver or metabolic disorders — it should be at a much later age than the twins who followed a regular diet.

The researchers concluded that “a short-term vegan diet is positively associated with epigenetic age benefits and reduced calorie intake”, and suggest it has potential for personalized nutrition strategies for healthy aging.

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Worth it for 8 weeks

A study I reported on last year only confirms these results…

In that study, which involved twins as well, the twins who followed the vegan diet ended up with significantly lower low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, insulin and body weight — all of which are associated with improved cardiovascular health.

That being said, some downsides have been reported that can be typical of long-term vegan dieting including…

• Trouble gaining lean muscle
• Low intake of protein and vitamin B12
• Risks for other deficiencies include: Vitamin D, zinc, choline, and omega-3 fatty acids
• And lower satisfaction with diet choice

That makes the idea of an 8-week vegan diet all that much easier to handle…

U.S. News and World Report, which rates diets every year, offers a complete beginner’s guide to the vegan diet.

Of course, the easiest place to start is simply avoiding anything that comes from an animal — which includes dairy and eggs.

You should be filling up mainly on fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Some of the best choices are:

• Brown rice
• Oatmeal
• Sweet potatoes and potatoes
• Corn
• Whole wheat pasta
• Dried apricots, prunes and figs
• Berries
• Pears
• Apples
• Cauliflower
• Kale
• Spinach
• Brussels sprouts
• Zucchini

There are lots of dairy-substitute options available as well, including:

• Soy milk
• Almond milk
• Coconut milk
• Yogurt made with one of the above

A word of caution: many processed vegan foods are just as unhealthy as regular ultra-processed foods, so that’s a pitfall to be avoided.

After an 8-week stint on the vegan diet if you’d like to add back the animal products but continue on a healthier path, eschewing red and processed meats for fish and chicken and keeping dairy down to a couple of servings a day, while eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, will get you closer to the Mediterranean diet — a diet that can take down weight, blood pressure and blood sugar but rates much higher on the satisfaction scale.

Sources:

Making One Diet Change For 8 Weeks Could Turn Back The Clock on Aging — Science Alert

Unveiling the epigenetic impact of vegan vs. omnivorous diets on aging: insights from the Twins Nutrition Study (TwiNS) — BMC Medicine

DNA Methylation: Can Your Diet Reduce Your Risk of Disease? — Healthline

Vegan Diet Can Improve Heart Health in Just 8 Weeks, Study Reveals — Science Alert

Cardiometabolic Effects of Omnivorous vs Vegan Diets in Identical TwinsA Randomized Clinical Trial — JAMA Network Open

This Daily Meal Plan Could Help Us Sustain 10 Billion People by Mid-Century — Science Alert

Vegan Food List: Over 100 Healthy Options For Your Next Grocery Haul — Trifecta

The post The 8-week diet proven to slow aging appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Lines around the mouth, jowls, a sagging neck and wrinkles — including crow’s feet, the infamous “11” between the brows and horizontal lines across the forehead — can get to those of us even with the most positive outlook on aging.

No wonder anti-aging creams and serums line store shelves, while medi spas have popped up on every corner offering microneedling, Botox and fillers that promise to bring back that youthful plumpness. And for those who want a total overhaul, plastic surgery is always an option.

The downside to all this? It’s invasive and expensive. You’ve got to maintain the use of Botox or fillers once you’ve started — or you end up back at square one within a matter of months.

Luckily, there may be one thing you can do to turn back the clock on your appearance that involves zero knives or needles — and doesn’t cost a cent…

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Give your face a workout

Your face is made up of layers of skin, fat and muscle that sit on top of your skull. When you start aging, the pads of fat that shape your face and give it that youthful fullness begin to thin and atrophy, causing it to sag.

There’s no natural means of re-plumping these fat pads. However, there is a way you can strengthen the muscles under the pads so that areas of the face might appear plumper and firmer.

One Northwestern University study showed that women who regularly practiced 30 minutes of 32 different facial exercises subtracted three years from their appearance after just 20 weeks. Their upper and lower cheeks were noticeably fuller, and the women said they noticed improvements in every area of their face.

It makes sense. But just like pumping up your biceps, it takes consistency.

Many dermatologists caution there are limits to what “face yoga” can do for appearance —and of course, they’d rather you buy into what they offer.

However, according to Harvard Health Publishing, there are a couple of specific areas where these exercises can be of benefit:

• Reducing the appearance of thick scars. Using facial exercises that include stretching and movement could loosen up and lessen the appearance of a tight scar.
• Improving gravity-related fat loss. Facial exercises could help improve facial muscle tone and help keep the fat in the face from drooping with the pull of gravity. However, the change is likely to be subtle and far less than accomplished by cosmetic means such as dermal fillers.

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How to do facial exercise

The exercises done by the women in the Northwestern study were recommended by Happy Face Yoga founder Gary Sikorski. Here are just a few for you to try (links to videos are included):

• For the cheeks: First, smile without showing your teeth. Then, roll your lips outward in a sort of pursed expression. This will make you want to stop smiling, but keep trying to smile with the corners of your mouth so that you’re pushing your cheek muscles upward. Next, press a finger at the corner of your lips on either side and slowly and firmly slide them up toward your cheekbones. When you get to the top of the cheekbone, continue to press firmly for 20 seconds.
• For the jawline: First, put your hands at the base of your neck. Then, raise your chin and tilt your head back slightly. Extend your lower jaw, push the tip of your tongue against the roof of your mouth and smile. You should feel your neck muscles tighten. Hold for 30 seconds.
• For wrinkles: First, put three fingers from each hand between your eyebrows. Then, press down and pull up so you’re lifting your eyebrows. Stretch the eyebrows apart, then frown so that they come down. With your fingers still firmly pushing down on your forehead, slide your eyebrows in opposite directions toward either side of your head. Do 10 repetitions of the whole series.

You shouldn’t expect them to see dramatic results, but if you’re consistent, you can get a lift that helps you feel you’re putting your best face forward.

What else can you do?

• Exercise your body too: Research a few years ago by McMaster’s University found people (in their 40s) who frequently exercised, had skin more comparable to 20-30-year-olds than to others the same age. Specifically, they had thicker dermis layers with greater elasticity.
• Drink white tea: This tea contains more catechins than most other teas. Catechins prevent free radicals from breaking down elastin and collagen. Elastin keeps skin from sagging and collagen supports skin’s elasticity. This is beneficial against sagging and wrinkling.
• Reduce sugary foods: Processed sugars trigger the release of inflammatory messengers called cytokines. These break down collagen and elastin.
• Eat more of these 6 foods that increase collagen production.

Sources:

Association of Facial Exercise With the Appearance of Aging — JAMA Dermatology

Does your face need a workout? — Harvard Health Publishing

Do face exercises to slim your face work, or is it just another overhyped beauty trend? — Today

The post What facial exercise can and can’t do for these signs of aging appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

And I know I’m preaching to the choir, right?

As we age, more aches and pains creep in. Health conditions you’d hoped to avoid begin to pile up. And day-to-day life can feel like a chore.

Now however, an anti-aging breakthrough, thanks to researchers at the Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology, may lead the way to a new therapy that could actually remove aging cells from the body before they do damage and leave behind only their normal, much more youthful counterparts…

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Stopping senescent from kicking off aging

Scientists specifically discovered a way to target what’s known as senescent cells — malfunctioning cells that have begun to break down and just don’t work properly anymore.

When this happens, those old cells begin to churn out proteins that damage other cells around them, kicking off inflammation throughout the body and leading to ailments associated with age.

This process even prevents the replication of stem cells — the cells your body uses to regenerate tissue.

This makes it easy to see why scientists were determined to find a way to rid the body of senescent cells. And the way they went about it is truly cutting-edge…

The researchers designed organic molecules that selectively target receptors overexpressed in the membranes of aging cells. The scientists were able to use these molecules to bind to the mitochondrial membrane of those aging cells, disrupt the membranes and cause the cells to hit the self-destruct button.

“The selective removal of aging cells by targeting the mitochondria and inducing dysfunction has been successfully demonstrated in our experiments,” said lead researcher, Professor Ja Hyoung Ryu. “This approach represents a new paradigm for treating age-related diseases.”

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Powerful support for mitochondrial health

So it looks like scientists may soon be able to just remove senescent cells so that we can all age in a healthier way.

Of course, as with all new discoveries, the timeline for exactly when this new therapy will be widely available is hard to nail down.

The good news is that there are ways to support the mechanisms in your body tied to healthier aging, including your mitochondria — instead of just leaving it to chance — using some of the most studied nutrients in the field of aging, including:

• PQQ – Known as the ‘longevity nutrient’, PQQ lowers the risk of age-related disease by improving the function of the mitochondria.
• CoQ10 – Without adequate CoQ10, mitochondria can’t function as they should, and aging accelerates. Research has shown CoQ10 is capable of reviving ailing mitochondria to restore lost function and slow aging. Be aware this is the nutrient statins can lower.
• Resveratrol – Found in the skin of grapes and dark chocolate, resveratrol helps rejuvenate senescent cells, turning back the clock so they behave like youthful cells again.
• Grape seed extract – A polyphenol in grape seeds known as procyanidin C1, or PCC1, has been shown to significantly extend both the healthspan and lifespan of old mice by promoting the death of senescent cells.
• Fisetin – This compound found in fruits like strawberries and apples is a senotherapeutic agent. This means fisetin is capable of specifically targeting only the senescent cells in the damaged tissue to help rein in the damage and slow aging.

So why wait?

Make it harder for those senescent cells to steal your youth and vitality!

Sources:

Selective removal of aging cells opens new possibilities for treating age-related diseases – EurekAlert!

The post Breakthrough: Scientists cause aging cells to self-destruct appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Her deep wrinkles and dark spots are to blame, even though she thought she was protecting her skin.

Fortunately, there are natural ways to add layers of additional protection, but first, you’ll need to know exactly what you’re up against…

And it isn’t only the UV rays from the sun that aren’t doing your skin any favors, as most of us have been led to believe…

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Photoaging: What laptops, smartphones and sunlight have in common

You’ve probably heard warnings about spending too much time in front of your computer or looking at your smartphone screen because of the damaging effects of the blue light they emit.

Numerous studies confirm that a lifetime of cumulative exposure to blue light causes the photo-oxidation of retinal cells known to contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The cornea and the lens of the eye help keep UV rays from reaching the retina. But they can’t keep the blue light out.

But what about your skin? While you might be able to slather on enough sunscreen to keep out most of the UV rays from the sun, those products have no effect on blue light — which is only slightly less powerful than UV rays.

A study by German skincare manufacturer Beiersdorf found that an entire week’s worth of exposure to blue light from a screen at a distance of 30cm is equivalent to just one minute of midday summer sun in Hamburg, Germany.

It’s also been established that blue light causes hyperpigmentation — or age spots.

Despite these warnings, we’re still spending more time than ever in front of a screen. But, something that may surprise you, research shows that the sun is a much more significant source of blue light.

So when it comes to premature aging, we’ve got to protect not only against UV rays but blue light too…

How blue light accelerates aging

Blue light exposure causes a significant increase in highly reactive chemicals formed from oxygen, known as reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Too much ROS can damage your DNA, as well as key enzymes responsible for DNA repair. Studies have also shown that blue light can activate genes associated with inflammation and photo-aging (skin damage and premature aging).

Photo-aging is the same process that occurs as a result of UV exposure. Research has confirmed that both UV irradiation (UV A and B) and blue light are known to induce the formation of free radicals and ROS.

So what’s a person to do when sunscreen isn’t the answer to all the rays that can harm your skin?

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An added layer of natural protection for skin and eyes

In the late 1980s, researchers at the University of California’s Irvine and San Francisco campuses and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) made a series of molecular breakthroughs…

They uncovered specific sets of genes in laboratory animals that kept cells from wearing out, from being overwhelmed by free radical damage, and from self-destructing.

One of the genes, subsequently named SIRT1, induces ROS-detoxifying enzymes that help reduce the effects of oxidation on cells.

And, eventually, it was discovered that resveratrol, found in large amounts in the skin of red grapes, kick-starts the SIRT1 gene into action.

Of all the natural ways to give your skin an added layer of protection, resveratrol is still king.

Resveratrol is also readily available in foods like red wine, blueberries, peanuts, pistachios and dark chocolate — and of course supplements.

But to protect your eyes from free radical damage from blue light, look to lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidant nutrients from foods like spinach, lettuce, kale, and broccoli, as well as avocados, mangoes, honeydew and egg yolks, and supplements as well.

These two nutrients are part of the AREDs formulation recommended by The American Academy of Ophthalmology for adults at high risk of AMD progression.

I feel a nice egg salad sandwich with veggies coming on… a glass of wine … and some chocolate for dessert! Sounds like a perfect summer afternoon treat to me!  

Sources:

Blue light: what we do and don’t know about the damage it causes our skin — The Conversation

Fidalgo, J., Novo Barros, A., & Casas, A. (2022). Resveratrol: A promising Antiaging Agent for Cosmetic Skin Treatments. IntechOpen. doi: 10.5772/intechopen.107860

Pigmentation effects of blue light irradiation on skin and how to protect against them — International Journal of Cosmetic Science

All of the Ways Resveratrol Can Benefit Your Skin — Good Housekeeping

Reactive Oxygen Species and Antioxidant System in Selected Skin Disorders —Malaysian Journal of Medical Sciences

The post The light aging your skin that sunscreen can’t block appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Between fluctuating hormone levels, falling collagen levels, oxidative stress and the summer sun, your skin could probably use some help repairing itself these days. I know mine surely could…

That’s where these eight skin-supporting and skin-saving vitamins come in.

With the right nutrition and a little supplementing, you can recapture your youthful glow and maintain beautiful, healthy skin for life.

Here’s how to get started…

#1 – Vitamin D

You may not have seen that one coming but the sunshine vitamin is good for absolutely every part of your body, including your skin. That’s because vitamin D is actually a hormone and your skin is super sensitive to hormones.

You’ve probably experienced this phenomenon before when your hormones aren’t balanced and you end up with dry skin and blemishes.

But vitamin D also affords photoprotective properties to your skin, meaning it can help shield skin cells from DNA damage and reduce erythema, reddening of the skin resulting from ultraviolet exposure.

Foods rich in the vitamin include egg yolks, cheese and fish like tuna and mackerel.

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#2 – Vitamin C

Yup, it’s an alphabet soup when it comes to vitamins and we’re on to vitamin C. You see, this nutrient is vital for your skin when it comes to repairing the damage of time and erasing years off your face–all thanks to its antioxidant power. Vitamin C in cosmetics and lotions especially helps to brighten the complexion and guard against the damage caused by U.V. rays.

It also is responsible for forming the collagen that keeps your skin firm and younger-looking and helps maintain healthy blood vessels that flush your cheeks with the glow you want.

Good sources of vitamin C are guava, red and green peppers, strawberries and kiwis.

#3 – Vitamin E

Another damage-reverser, vitamin E is an antioxidant that counters the free radicals that can destroy the collagen in your skin and leave you sagging and wrinkled.

Foods rich in vitamin E are wheat-germ oil, sunflower seeds, almonds and hazelnuts.

#4 – Fish Oil

Omega-3 fatty acids are one the best nutrients you should boost for your skin. That’s because they help nourish your skin and keep it plump and youthful, which can also help to reduce wrinkles and take years off your face.

Good sources of fish oil include cold water, fatty fish like salmon, sardines, mackerel, tuna, and my favorite, krill oil (no burps!).

#5 – Biotin

Did you know that if you’re not getting enough biotin (a B vitamin) in your diet it could be the reason behind the dry, flaky patches of eczema on your skin?

Be sure to eat biotin-rich foods like cauliflower, avocadoes, mushrooms, eggs, salmon and sweet potatoes.

#6 – Pantothenic Acid

Also known as vitamin B5 or panthenol, this one will rehydrate your skin in a flash.

That’s because B5 actually prevents water loss from your skin.

You can find vitamin B5 in foods like mushrooms, eggs, beef, chicken and turkey.

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#7 – Niacin

Niacin is also called vitamin B3 and the reason you want it in your life is for its skin-brightening effects and the fact that it’s been scientifically proven to significantly improve the appearance of aged skin.

The highest sources of niacin for your diet can be found in turkey, chicken breast, peanuts, tuna and green peas.

#8 – Vitamin K

You know those dark circles under your eyes? Or, those spider veins?

Well, that’s where vitamin K comes in.

You see, vitamin K helps with the blood vessel problems that cause these issues.

The best foods for getting your vitamin K fix are kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, spinach and asparagus.

Sources:

1. Vitamin D — You and Your Hormones
2. Vitamin D and Skin Health — Linus Pauling Institute | Oregon State University
3. The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health — Nutrients
4. Oxidative damage to collagen — Experientia Supplementum
5. The Truth About Hair, Skin, and Nail Supplements — Consumer Reports
6. Topical use of dexpanthenol in skin disorders — American Journal of Clinical Dermatology
7. Niacinamide: A B vitamin that improves aging facial skin appearance — Dermatologic Surgery

The post 8 vitamins for supple summer skin appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

What if we could increase our healthspans, which means not just adding years to our lifespans — but healthier ones?

What if we could support and replenish our aging mitochondria so our cells have the energy they need to keep on going — and keep us going?

What a game-changer that would be — as long we could get enough…

Can an amino acid molecule slow aging?

These are the questions that Dr. Vijay Yadav, assistant professor of genetics & development at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, had in mind when he launched a study involving dozens of researchers around the world who study aging.

Taurine first hit Dr. Yadav’s radar during previous research into osteoporosis that uncovered taurine’s role in building bone. Other researchers, around the same time, were seeing how taurine impacted immune function, obesity and nervous system functions.

That’s when a lightbulb went off…

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“We realized that if taurine is regulating all these processes that decline with age, maybe taurine levels in the bloodstream affect overall health and lifespan,” Dr. Yadav says.

When the research team analyzed levels of the amino acid in the bloodstream of mice, monkeys and people, they saw something often revealed over and over again in aging research — a deficiency.

Taurine levels had dropped substantially with age. Specifically in people, the taurine levels in 60-year-olds were only about one-third of the levels in 5-year-olds.

“That’s when,” Yadav says, “we started to ask if taurine deficiency is a driver of the aging process, and we set up a large experiment with mice.”

Taurine levels decline with age: what if we raise them?

The study included about 250 14-month-old male and female mice (the equivalent of 45 in human years). The mice were fed an amount of taurine or a control solution daily.

By the end of the experiment, they found taurine had increased the average lifespan of female mice by 12 percent and 10 percent in males. For the mice, that meant three to four extra months — the equivalent of about seven or eight human years.

But what about the impact on the animal’s health?

For that answer, Dr. Yadov looked to other researchers who investigated the effect of supplemented taurine on the health and lifespan of several species…

After measuring various health parameters in mice, they found that at age 2 (60 in human years), animals supplemented with taurine for one year were healthier in almost every way than their untreated counterparts. In fact, the amino acid:

• Suppressed age-associated weight gain in female mice (even in “menopausal” mice)
• Increased energy expenditure
• Increased bone mass
• Improved muscle endurance and strength
• Reduced depression-like and anxious behaviors
• Reduced insulin resistance
• And promoted a younger-looking immune system

At the cellular level, supplementation:

• Decreased the number of “zombie cells” (old cells that linger and release harmful substances)
• Increased survival after telomerase deficiency
• Increased the number of stem cells present in some tissues (which help repair other cells)
• Improved the performance of mitochondria
• Reduced DNA damage
• And improved the cells‘ ability to sense nutrients

But supplementing isn’t the only way they found we can increase our levels. The researchers measured taurine levels before and after a strenuous cycling workout. They found a significant increase in taurine levels in both seasoned athletes and sedentary people.

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Taurine: A natural anti-aging option

Dr. Yadav is quick to point out, however, that “these are associations, which do not establish causation, but the results are consistent with the possibility that taurine deficiency contributes to human aging.”

Randomized clinical trials, considered the gold standard in research, are needed for the definitive answer on taurine’s anti-aging benefits.

“Taurine abundance goes down with age, so restoring taurine to a youthful level in old age may be a promising anti-aging strategy.”

Dr. Bruce Ames, a Senior Scientist with a career spanning seven decades, would likely agree. His “triage theory” argues that, by skimping on inadequate amounts, we’re cheating ourselves of valuable “longevity vitamins” critical to long-term maintenance. He considers taurine one on a list of about 10 he considers valuable longevity nutrients.

Taurine is available in supplement form and is found naturally in foods like eggs, dairy, scallops, tuna, tilapia, octopus, seaweed, chicken, turkey and beef. Adding more of these foods to your diet can only help.

Supplementing taurine in reasonable amounts is safe. But if you have kidney health problems, discuss with your doctor first.

Sources:

Taurine may be a key to longer and healthier life — Eureka Alert

Taurine deficiency as a driver of aging — Science

The post Taurine: The anti-aging amino acid appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

I’ve got skin creams and serums and lotions galore and different skincare regimens for day and night. Those regimens seem to make a difference in my skin’s elasticity and appearance, and they make me feel good.

As someone who takes care of their skin, I’m always keeping an eye out for new advances in anti-aging products. And as someone who prefers using products made from all-natural ingredients, I was intrigued by news of a potential anti-aging breakthrough derived from a common weed….

Stem Cells Make you look 30 years younger:

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The anti-aging potential of cocklebur

Cocklebur is a weed that grows in moist or sandy areas such as roadside ditches and riverbanks. It’s native to Southern Europe, Central Asia and China, but has spread worldwide.

The distinctive fruits of the cocklebur plant are encased in stiff hucks covered in burrs. They’ve been used for centuries in traditional medicine for problems like headaches, stuffy nose, tuberculosis-related illness and skin pigmentation disorders. And in recent years, scientists have investigated their potential use in treatments for cancer and rheumatoid arthritis.

Now, research indicates that cocklebur fruit has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components that could be used to protect the skin.

In laboratory tests using cells and tissues, researchers found these compounds reduced damage from ultraviolet B (UVB) exposure and accelerated wound healing. They also seem to influence collagen production. Collagen is the protein found in skin that gives it elasticity and prevents wrinkles from forming.

“We found that cocklebur fruit has the potential to protect the skin and help enhance production of collagen,” says Eunsu Song, a doctoral candidate at Myongji University in South Korea who conducted the research with Myongji University Professor Jinah Hwang.

“In this regard, it could be an attractive ingredient for creams or other cosmetic forms,” Song says. “It will likely show a synergistic effect if it is mixed with other effective compounds, such as hyaluronic acid or retinoic acid, against aging.”

The study is the first to explore cocklebur fruit extract’s properties as a skin protectant and wound-healing agent.

When comparing the bioactivity of cocklebur fruits grown in different places, the researchers discovered those grown in South Korea had slightly higher antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and greater wound-healing activity than those grown in China.

Some caution required

But don’t rush out to start gathering cocklebur fruits just yet. The researchers warn that high doses of cocklebur fruit extract can be toxic, so further research is needed to figure out how to use it safely in cosmetic and pharmaceutical applications.

“In its burrs, cocklebur fruit also has a toxic constituent, carboxyatractyloside, which can damage the liver,” Song says. This effect has been observed in livestock and other animals that ingest cockleburs.

Song adds that while cocklebur fruit extract showed potential as a cosmetic agent by increasing collagen production, it showed negative results with higher concentrations.

“Therefore, finding the proper concentration seems very important and would be key to commercializing cocklebur fruit extracts in cosmetics,” he says.

The next step for the researchers is to further study cocklebur fruit extract’s biological mechanisms and conduct experiments in animal alternatives to explore ways to safely adapt it for cosmetic use.

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What to do in the meantime

Unlike cocklebur, grapes have been found to provide skin-protecting properties — and you can eat quite a bunch of them. In studies, eating grapes protected against UV skin damage, increased resistance to sunburn and reduced cellular markers of UV damage linked to premature aging.

Until cocklebur is available commercially, there are a few other anti-aging ingredients you can try to keep that smooth, plump glow to your skin. My colleague Dr. Adria Schmedthorst talks here about the many benefits hyaluronic acid provides for the skin. And here I go over the newest research on how skincare products containing cannabis may turn back the clock on skin aging.

Of course, one of the best things you can do to protect your skin is to use sunscreen. A lot of sunscreens use harmful chemicals, so check this list from EWG to find one that’s both safe and effective at protecting you from the sun’s aging rays.

Be sure to avoid foods that age you. Sugar and cooked meat can prematurely age your skin, while plant-based foods that are rich in powerful antioxidants like polyphenols (think grapes!) can help protect it from the ravages of time.

Sources:

Scientists see anti-aging potential in an invasive weed — EurekAlert!

Xanthium — ScienceDirect

Skin Care – United States — Statista

The post The common weed with anti-aging potential appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

It’s a truth that’s inspired a search for the fountain of youth since Ponce de Leon landed in Florida.

Yet, while that mythical fountain was never discovered, researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center may have finally done what that Spanish explorer couldn’t…

Make an aging body youthful again.

And it all has to do with turning back the clock on your blood.

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Capturing the power of young blood

You see, recent research has already demonstrated the power of young blood to rejuvenate older bodies.

It can make aging hearts beat stronger, muscles become stronger and thinking becomes sharper.

“An aging blood system, because it’s a vector for a lot of proteins, cytokines, and cells, has a lot of bad consequences for the organism,” says Emmanuelle Passegué, Ph.D., director of the Columbia Stem Cell Initiative, who’s been studying how blood changes with age. “A 70-year-old with a 40-year-old blood system could have a longer healthspan, if not a longer lifespan.”

However, it’s not like you can just head into your doctor’s office and ask to be hooked up to an IV of blood from a 20-year-old.

So those Columbia researchers set out to find a way to replicate the effects of young blood using a pill, specifically by rejuvenating the system that makes blood in the first place — your stem cells.

Basically, all of the blood cells in your body are created by a small number of stem cells found in your bone marrow.

Yet, over time, these cells start to change, producing fewer red blood cells (which can cause anemia) and fewer immune cells (which can increase your risk of infection). With age, they also have problems maintaining the integrity of their genomes, which can raise your risk of certain types of cancers.

This led the researchers to believe that if they could restore those stem cells to a younger state, they could restore your entire body to a younger state.

Aging stem cells and inflammation

To do so, the researchers had a few tricks up their sleeves…

First, they turned to exercise and a caloric-restricted diet — which have been found to regenerate stem cells found in other areas of the body, like the intestines.

Unfortunately, these options just didn’t do the trick for the stem cells that make your blood.

Transplanting old stem cells into young bone marrow also failed.

Even directly infusing young blood had no effect on rejuvenating old blood stem cells.

That’s when the researchers decided to take a closer look at the stem cells’ environment… the bone marrow.

“Blood stem cells live in a niche; we thought what happens in this specialized local environment could be a big part of the problem,” assistant researcher, Carl Mitchell, says.

And sure enough — that environment was exactly where the root problem behind stem cell aging was discovered.

The team found that aging in blood stem cells is due to inflammation, which leads to deterioration and dysfunction of the cells.

And they found that one inflammatory cytokine signal released from aging bone marrow, IL-1B, was critical in driving this process. That’s when they turned to an anti-inflammatory drug called anakinra, which is used to block inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

And guess what…

Stem cells from older animals treated with the drug miraculously became younger and healthier!

Even more youthful effects were achieved when IL-1B was prevented from exerting its inflammatory effects throughout the animal’s life.

In fact, the results were so remarkable that the researchers have now moved on to studying the same processes in humans, to determine if rejuvenating blood stem cells earlier in life, in middle age, could finally be the fountain of youth we’ve all been looking for.

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The real anti-aging target: Inflammation

Of course, if you’re like me, your first thought was probably — this is great. My next thought was, well when they repurpose that drug as “anti-aging” it’s probably going to have a hefty price tag. And who knows who it will be offered to and when.

But inflammation as a root cause of destruction is nothing new, so we’ve got some backup…

I’ve written before on natural ways to reduce the inflammation and irritation patients with rheumatoid experience.

One of the most powerful compounds I’ve come across in the last couple of years that’s been researched to ease inflammation in general — but also in the case of rheumatoid arthritis — is thymoquinone, the active principle of Nigella sativa, the plant that produces black cumin seed oil.

Research published in the Journal of Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy even found thymoquinone reduced the expression of the IL-1 family of cytokines, of which IL-1b is a member.

I’m not saying it’s a miracle nutrient that will stop aging on a dime, but plenty of studies show it’s powerfully effective against inflammation, and that’s good enough for me.

Sources:

Will revitalizing old blood slow aging? – EurekAlert!

Thymoquinone attenuates rheumatoid arthritis by downregulating TLR2, TLR4, TNF-α, IL-1, and NFκB expression levels — Science Direct

Overview of the IL-1 family in innate inflammation and acquired immunity —  Library of Medicine

The post Is revitalizing old blood the secret to slowing aging? appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The sun is responsible for about 80 percent of skin aging — and that is the least of the harm it can do.

When I know I’m going to be outside in the sun for long periods, I make sure to wear sunscreen on my face. And I either wear sunscreen or long sleeves and pants to cover other areas.

But you might be excited as I was to learn that all of this prevention focusing on the outside of my body isn’t the only way to cut down on the dangers of UV exposure…

Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, help people experience less sun damage and reduce signs of aging. Orange, green and red vegetables high in carotene can not only protect your skin from sun radiation damage but also scavenge the free radicals that lead to skin aging… and worse.

Plus, mounting evidence suggests that one popular fruit, in particular, is especially effective at countering UV damage to the skin…

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Confirming the grape’s sun-protective properties

Previous studies have found that eating grapes protected against UV skin damage, increased resistance to sunburn and reduced cellular markers of UV damage. 

More specifically, the phytonutrients in grapes can slow down the formation of destructive reactive oxygen species (ROS), or free radicals, that form in skin cells.

Now, a third study has reinforced these findings…

Researchers gave one group of volunteers whole grape powder equivalent to 2.25 cups of grapes per day for 14 days. They also measured each volunteer’s skin response to UV light before and after consumption of the grape powder. They also analyzed each volunteer’s gut microbiome, blood and urinary samples.

In as little as two weeks, one-third of the subjects given the grape powder showed UV resistance. And the researchers believe polyphenols, natural antioxidant components found in grapes, are responsible for these beneficial effects.

Then, something even more interesting happened…

These same UV-resistant subjects displayed significant microbiome and metabolic differences compared with those who did not show UV resistance. One of those metabolic differences is a strong indicator of reduced premature aging of the skin and could be relevant for use in personalized medicine.

Furthermore, researchers found that a sub-group of the UV-resistant subjects retained their UV protection for 4 weeks after they stopped consuming the grape powder. This suggests a segment of the population is capable of resisting sunburn after eating grapes, and that there is a correlation between the gut-skin axis and UV resistance.

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Protecting the gut-skin axis

If you’re looking to protect your skin from sun damage, it certainly appears to be a good idea to add grapes to your diet. One of the most abundant polyphenols found in grapes, resveratrol, also a powerful antioxidant, has been the subject of anti-aging research for decades.

But are there other dietary steps you could take?

In this study, researchers saw gut microbiome differences between those who received UV resistance after eating grapes and those that didn’t. Previous investigators have also found connections between imbalances in the gut microbiome and inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic dermatitis, rosacea and psoriasis. There also appears to be a link between certain types of skin damage and upset in the gut microbiome. This two-way relationship is known as the gut-skin axis.

The best way to support your gut microbiome is to consume probiotics every day. You can get them from foods, like unsweetened yogurt, kimchi, kombucha, sauerkraut and miso soup. Or you can add a high-quality probiotic supplement to your daily regimen.

Sources:

Grape Consumption Helps Counter UV Damage to Skin — Western New England University

Short-Term Grape Consumption Diminishes UV-Induced Skin Erythema — Antioxidants

Gut–Skin Axis: Current Knowledge of the Interrelationship between Microbial Dysbiosis and Skin Conditions — Microorganisms

Gut–Skin Axis: Unravelling the Connection between the Gut Microbiome and Psoriasis — Biomedicines

The post The link between grapes, your skin and the sun appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

There are creams on the market made from phytocannabinoids (pCBs), bioactive compounds in the marijuana plant that include THC and CBD. These creams can have powerful anti-inflammatory effects that relieve itching and potentially help multiple skin issues, including psoriasis, eczema and fibrosis.

For instance, one small study found that applying cannabinoid cream twice a day for three weeks completely cured a painful, red, itchy skin condition called pruritus in almost 40 percent of individuals who tried it.

Limited scientific data suggests cannabis could be of benefit in anti-aging or rejuvenation products, but the extent of these benefits is unknown. That’s why one international research team decided to investigate the use of pCBs in products meant to rejuvenate the skin….

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The impact of pCBs on skin rejuvenation

Although the epidermis is the visible layer of skin, the underlying dermis plays a key role in delivering nutrients and structurally supporting the epidermis through a network of interconnected collagen and elastin fibers. This extracellular matrix (ECM) also is central to skin hydration because it binds water to the collagen fibers contained within.

Over time, genetic and epigenetic changes, environmental stressors and successive replication of skin cells can cause alterations and lead to degradation in telomeres — structures that safeguard your DNA.

This cascades into the gradual degradation of the ECM and the subsequent deterioration that causes skin to become visibly aged.

In the study, the scientists used healthy and stress-induced premature senescent (SIPS) skin fibroblasts to test the effect of pCBs on cellular viability, functional activity, metabolic function and the architecture of the nucleus.

According to the researchers, “Both delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) within the range of 0.5 µM to 2.0 µM increased cell growth in a dose-dependent manner while significantly decreasing senescence as measured by beta-galactosidase activity.”

In other words, THC and CBD promoted an increase in new cell growth while decreasing the number of damaged cells — or senescent cells. Cellular senescence has been an important area of aging research for a while now.

But not only that. they found both THC and CBD significantly improved wound healing in both healthy and SIPS fibroblasts, and altered cells and genes involved in ECM production.

THC was also found to reduce alterations in skin cells, increase the potential for cellular viability by preserving cell-cycle regulators, as well as boost ECM production.

The researchers added, “Both THC and CBD were found to improve wound healing better than metformin, rapamycin, and triacetylresveratrol in replicative senescent CCD-1135Sk fibroblasts. Therefore, pCBs can be a valuable source of biologically active substances used in cosmetics, and more studies using clinical trials should be performed to confirm the efficacy of phytocannabinoids.”

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How to use topical phytocannabinoids

Cannabinoids are lipophilic compounds, meaning they can pass through difficult biological barriers like the skin. This means transdermal emulsions and creams containing pCBs are not only easy but effective to use. They are absorbed into the skin and bind to the numerous cannabinoid receptors in its different layers.

It’s best to apply them to clean skin so that there are no other cosmetics or contaminants that could interfere with their absorption. And with balms, you may need to warm them first so that they’ll better penetrate the skin.

Unfortunately, the patchwork of regulations that cover pCB products in the U.S. can make it difficult to find them in certain states, particularly if they contain THC. However, hemp-derived CBD topicals can be found in drug stores where wellness products are sold.

This site can help you determine which pCB products are legal to buy in your state, and they have an entire section on “Topicals” that can help you learn more — including that topicals are non-intoxicating (even the ones containing THC) and may include other ingredients such as essential oils.

Editor’s note: Beware of ‘junk CBD’! Before you buy, click here to know these 4 ways to identify fake CBD products.

Sources:

1. Study: Both THC and CBD Improve Wound Healing, May be Valuable As Skin Rejuvenators — The Marijuana Herald

2. Phytocannabinoids Stimulate Rejuvenation and Prevent Cellular Senescence in Human Dermal Fibroblasts — Cells

3. Medical marijuana laws in the United States — Leafly

4. Best CBD Creams Of 2023 — Forbes

The post Cannabis: A new breakthrough in anti-aging skincare appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

So, what can you do to find relief?

The bad news is that modern medicine has no quick fix for osteoarthritis. It’s considered a relatively normal part of aging, and most people are told to pop some painkillers and deal with it. In severe cases, your doctor may recommend cortisone shots or surgery, but both of those come with big risks. Other than that, there’s not much your doctor can do for you.

That’s why it’s incredibly common for people with osteoarthritis to try natural treatments that not only relieve arthritis pain but stop arthritis from progressing. And one of the most promising natural arthritis treatments around is a superstar antioxidant you’ve probably already heard of — resveratrol.

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Resveratrol switches on a critical gene for osteoarthritis prevention

A 2019 research review from Central South University in China found that resveratrol can switch on a gene that may stop the progression of osteoarthritis.

The gene they studied is called sirtuin 1 (SIRT 1). It’s considered a longevity gene and it’s linked to a variety of age-related diseases, including osteoarthritis. SIRT 1 is present in cartilage cells. But factors that drive the development of osteoarthritis, like oxidative stress, nutritional stress and mechanical stress, inhibit SIRT 1’s expression.

In people with osteoarthritis, the level of SIRT 1 is directly connected to the severity of their disease. People with severely degenerated cartilage have less expression of this gene. And having less SIRT 1 leads to even more degeneration. It’s a vicious cycle. But resveratrol may be able to get that SIRT 1 flowing again…

Resveratrol is a proven SIRT 1 activator, which means it can increase the amount of SIRT 1 in cartilage cells. In fact, the more resveratrol you take (up to concentrations of 25 and/or 50 µM), the more SIRT 1 expresses in these cells.

Studies show that in mice with osteoarthritis, resveratrol is successfully able to slow the progression of the disease. And studies in people with osteoarthritis show resveratrol reduces pain, lowers inflammation biomarkers, improves function and decreases symptoms overall.

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How to supplement resveratrol

Now that you know resveratrol offers serious osteoarthritis support, you may be wondering how much you couldd take. In one of the studies included in the research review, people with mild-to-moderate knee arthritis took 500 mg of resveratrol per day, and it helped them quite a bit without triggering any side effects.

If you have more severe arthritis, you may need a higher dose. Research shows resveratrol is relatively safe and well-tolerated in doses up to 5 g per day. Although, if you have other health issues (particularly liver issues), you may better tolerate less. Your best bet is to partner with a trusted natural health practitioner who can help you figure out the right dosage for your specific health situation.

Sources:

1. The role of sirtuin 1 and its activator, resveratrol in osteoarthritis — Bioscience Reports.
2. Osteoarthritis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Sirt1 regulates apoptosis and extracellular matrix degradation in resveratrol‑treated osteoarthritis chondrocytes via the Wnt/β‑catenin signaling pathways — Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine.
4. Resveratrol: A Double-Edged Sword in Health Benefits — Biomedicines.

The post The superstar antioxidant that stops osteoarthritis in its tracks appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

It’s called sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia is a loss of muscle mass that according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) begins around the age of 40 and kicks into high gear when you reach your 60s and 70s.

And while some may say that it’s just a normal part of aging, I don’t think there’s anything normal about becoming frail, worrying about being able to open a jar of pickles or even standing up on your own — not to mention falling.

Luckily, thanks to research from the University of Ottawa, a common ingredient in skin anti-aging formulations may be able to help keep muscles firm and strong as well in the face of sarcopenia…

The alarm clock for muscle stem cells

Those Ottawa researchers found the secret by taking a look at damaged muscle, discovering that when damage happens and muscle loss begins, stem cells must work together with immune cells to complete the repair process.

And the only way that happens is if a certain acid is present to make it all work…

It’s known as hyaluronic acid.

Yes, the very ingredient already used in cosmetics to help firm and plump the skin — as well as in injections for osteoarthritis.

The researchers explained its helpful role for your muscles…

“When muscles get damaged, it is important for immune cells to quickly enter the tissue and remove the damage before stem cells begin repair,” said Dr. Jeffrey Dilworth, senior scientist at The Ottawa Hospital and professor at the University of Ottawa and senior author on the study. “Our study shows that muscle stem cells are primed to start repair right away, but the immune cells maintain the stem cells in a resting state while they finish the cleanup job. After about 40 hours, once the cleanup job is finished, an internal alarm goes off in the muscle stem cells that allows them to wake up and start repair.”

And the key ingredient in that repair process is hyaluronic acid.

“Interestingly, aging is associated with chronic inflammation, muscle weakness and a reduced ability of muscle stem cells to wake up and repair damage,” said lead author Dr. Kiran Nakka. “If we could find a way to enhance hyaluronic acid production in the muscle stem cells of older people it might help with muscle repair.”

The future of your muscles

This means that, eventually, sarcopenia could be a thing of the past thanks to hyaluronic acid.

But in the meantime, why wait? Suffering the abnormal ravages of sarcopenia is for the birds.

Especially when some readily available nutrients have been proven the help…

Let’s start with resveratrol…

Harvard researchers have studied the antioxidant for its power to help astronauts maintain strong muscles in the face of long missions in zero gravity. In their experiments, rats who received resveratrol maintained more muscle mass and lost less muscle fiber.

Another study at Georgetown University also found resveratrol has major restorative powers for your muscles.

Next up is an omega-3 supplement…

In fact, several studies give this important nutrient major credibility for helping fight age-related muscle loss…

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that older women who do resistance training and take omega-3 supplements more than doubled the amount of strength gained from exercise. Women who took the supplement were 34 percent stronger after 18 weeks, while women who didn’t take the supplement were only 16 percent stronger.

A 2015 study showed that taking a fish oil supplement slowed the loss of muscle mass and function in older men and women. And a 2011 study showed that omega-3s enhanced muscle protein synthesis (the bodily process that helps muscles grow) in older men and women.

Sources:

Sarcopenia: What you need to know – MedicalNewsToday

Hyaluranic acid, a naturally occurring compound, awakens stem cells to repair damaged muscle – ScienceDaily

The post Hyaluronic acid: From firming skin to fighting age-related muscle loss appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise have been shown to have an impact on the body’s aging process. Now, there’s a new study that shows another way that the clock can be turned back on aging…

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Hyperbaric oxygen and aging reversal

For the first time in humans, researchers were able to reverse two key biological elements of aging: the shortening of telomeres, the “caps” on the end of each DNA strand that protect the chromosomes; and the buildup of senescent cells, which are old, malfunctioning cells that secrete harmful factors that can cause inflammation and inhibit stem cell replication.

The shortening of telomere length is associated with several life-threatening issues, while the accumulation of senescent cells contributes to many age-related conditions and illnesses. In previous animal studies, the elimination of senescent cells has been shown to eliminate these conditions.

Related: The Antioxidant that Combats Aging and Makes Old Cells New Again

The study by Tel Aviv University and The Sagol Center for Hyperbaric Medicine and Research at Shamir Medical Center employed a specific protocol of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) in 63 healthy aging subjects who received 60 daily sessions over the course of 90 days.

HBOT uses 100 percent oxygen at an environmental pressure higher than normal to enhance the amount of oxygen dissolved in the body’s tissues. Typically, during treatment, the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream increases significantly. In the pressurized atmosphere, oxygen molecules are delivered around the body at a rapid rate, absorbing into plasma, tissue and major organs.

In participants receiving HBOT, telomere length of T helper, T cytotoxic, natural killer and B cells was increased by more than 20 percent. As for senescent cells, the number of senescent T helpers decreased by about 37 percent and T-cytotoxic senescent cell percentages declined by almost 11 percent post-HBOT.

The study also found that HBOT enhanced cognitive performance in healthy aging adults through regional changes in cerebral blood flow. The main improvements occurred in attention, information processing speed and executive functions, all of which normally decline with aging.

Faster rollback of aging effects

Study co-author Dr. Amir Hadanny notes that lifestyle modifications and intense exercise have been shown to inhibit expected telomere length shortening. “However, what is remarkable to note in our study, is that in just three months of HBOT, we were able to achieve such significant telomere elongation — at rates far beyond any of the currently available interventions or lifestyle modifications,” Dr. Hadanny says.

“Since telomere shortening is considered the ‘Holy Grail’ of the biology of aging, many pharmacological and environmental interventions are being extensively explored in the hopes of enabling telomere elongation,” says Dr. Shai Efrati, research group leader for the study. “The significant improvement of telomere length shown during and after these unique HBOT protocols provides the scientific community with a new foundation of understanding that aging can, indeed, be targeted and reversed at the basic cellular-biological level.”

The study is part of a comprehensive research program targeting aging as a reversible disease taking place in Israel.

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How to combat aging on your own

HBOT isn’t something that’s going to be readily available to everyone anytime soon — unless you can afford your own personal hyperbaric chamber like pop star Justin Bieber, who reportedly sleeps in his every night.

Fortunately for the rest of us, there are more affordable ways to help rejuvenate the body and potentially slow the aging process.

As Dr. Hadanny mentioned, certain lifestyle changes can contribute to the shortening of telomeres, and consequently, an aging slowdown. In an earlier issue, we noted how a fast-mimicking diet (FMD) can slow the biological aging process. FMD uses the principles of calorie restriction to reprogram the body to age more slowly and help stem cells regenerate new cells.

If restricting calories isn’t your thing, you can try boosting your levels of the antiaging compound spermidine by eating foods such as wheat germ, mushrooms, meat, strongly fermented cheese, soybeans, and many fruits and vegetables including pears and leafy greens.

Another substance that can help slow aging is coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), an antioxidant naturally occurring in the body that’s important to mitochondrial function. According to research, CoQ10 is able to revive ailing mitochondria, restore lost function and slow the aging process. Since CoQ10 levels decline with age, taking a CoQ10 supplement can help.

As far as exercise goes, studies have shown endurance sports like cycling, swimming and running and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) both slow signs of aging on the cellular level. One study observed that participants engaging in these activities demonstrated a lengthening of their telomeres and an increase in telomerase, an enzyme involved in maintaining telomeres.

We talked in an earlier issue about how adding a glass of beetroot juice to your pre-workout routine can boost brain health by improving brain connectivity. In studies, beetroot juice has demonstrated the ability to increase blood flow to your brain and enhance your exercise performance.

Sources:

First-Time Human Study Shows Reversal in Biology of Aging – Telomere Shortening and Senescent Cells Accumulation – with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) — PR Newswire

Cognitive enhancement of healthy older adults using hyperbaric oxygen: a randomized controlled trial — Aging

What is a Telomere? — T.A. Sciences

14 Foods That Turn Back Time — Easy Health Options

This Is the Best Anti-Aging Workout, According to Science — Health

This Fountain of Youth Comes in a Capsule — Easy Health Options

The post 2 key biological elements of aging in humans reversed in scientific first appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

I had some other gastrointestinal symptoms too, but I won’t go into all the gory details.

At first, I thought it was a stomach bug, but when it didn’t go away after a few weeks I knew it wasn’t. Then I developed itchy red spots on my arm, and I decided to make an appointment with my doctor.

She was baffled by my symptoms too, especially the spots on my arm, so she sent me to the dermatologist. He looked at me briefly and knew it was a mild skin irritation, nothing to worry about. He prescribed me a steroid cream and some antibiotics and sent me on my way.

I mentioned to him that I’d been having stomach trouble too, but he didn’t seem interested in connecting the dots between what was going on with my skin and stomach. I, however, knew the two were connected.

You’ve heard of the gut-brain axis. Well, research shows there’s a gut-skin axis too. That means your skin is constantly communicating with your gut, and your gut is constantly communicating with your skin.

In fact, a new study shows exactly why people with skin problems are more likely to have gut problems and vice versa…

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Scratching your skin may make you more vulnerable to food allergens

Researchers from Harvard Medical School just discovered that the simple act of scratching your skin could prime your gut for allergic reactions.

In their study, they put small strips of tape on the skin of mice to trigger itchy skin. Once the mice scratched their skin, researchers saw that the skin produces a cell-signaling protein called IL-33. This protein enters the bloodstream and makes its way to the gut.

Once IL-33 is in the gut, it works with a protein secreted by cells in the lining of the intestine called IL-25. The two proteins together produce a chain reaction that causes mast cells (cells responsible for allergic reactions) in the intestine to expand.

When mast cells expand, it makes the intestinal lining more permeable, which makes it easier for allergens to get into the tissues. As a result, mice who got the tape also responded more severely to food allergens.

Researchers took biopsies from the intestines of children with atopic dermatitis (an itchy skin condition) too and found that they had more mast cells.

Healing your gut to heal your itchy skin

This research shows the gut-skin axis in action. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that an itchy skin condition is causing your food allergies. It means that your gut and skin are constantly communicating with one another.

In my opinion, gut-skin trouble starts in the gut. If your microbiome is out of balance, it can cause itchy skin issues like atopic dermatitis. And if you scratch that atopic dermatitis, you could make your gut more susceptible to allergens and toxins. It’s a negative feedback loop.

If you want to stop this destructive cycle, start by healing your gut. That’s exactly what I’ve set out to do since my experience with gut and skin issues.

Now, healing your gut isn’t easy… or quick. It takes time and dedication. My journey has only begun, but here are some tips I’ve learned about getting gut health back on track:

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• Get a good probiotic. Often, gut issues and skin issues happen when the good and bad bacteria in your gut are out of whack. A probiotic supplement can help restore order. Research shows that spore-based probiotics are the most effective at healing leaky gut, a condition that’s behind many people’s gut and skin issues.
• Stay away from alcohol. Research shows that alcohol increases the permeability of your gut (aka causes leaky gut syndrome) and triggers bacterial imbalances in your gut. So, steer clear of cocktails for a while if you want a healthier gut.
• Get tested for food sensitivities. You can ask for a food sensitivity test through your doctor, a nutritionist or get a DIY one online (like this one). Once you find out what foods your body reacts to, try an elimination diet to determine what’s really making your gut health go awry.
• Eat plenty of fiber. Fiber feeds the good bacteria in your gut. However, most Americans don’t eat nearly enough fiber. That may be why so many of us have gut imbalances.
• Limit NSAIDs and antibiotics. It’s no secret that antibiotics take a toll on your gut health. But NSAIDs aren’t much better. These common pain relievers can trigger intestinal inflammation and permeability.
• Maximize your omega-3s. Research shows that people who eat more omega-3s have better bacterial diversity in their guts. So, eat more salmon! Or supplement with fish oil or krill (like fish oil but more bioavailable, without the fish burps).
• Manage stress. The gut-brain axis is like a superhighway that sends your emotions right to your stomach. That means, when you’re stressed, it triggers changes in your microbiome. If you can keep stress levels under wraps through stress-relieving practices like meditation, yoga, and massage, your microbiome will be much better off.
• Exercise. A 2017 study found that exercising encourages the production of butyrate, a beneficial short-chain fatty acid that boosts the health of intestinal cells and lowers inflammation.
• Sleep. Your gut and brain are closely connected… which means your gut and sleep are too. Not getting enough sleep can throw your microbiome off balance. So, squeeze in those zzzzs.

Sources:

1. Scratching the skin primes the gut for allergic reactions to food, mouse study suggests — MedicalXpress
2. Mechanical Skin Injury Promotes Food Anaphylaxis by Driving Intestinal Mast Cell Expansion — Immunity
3. The Gut Microbiome as a Major Regulator of the Gut-Skin Axis — Frontiers in Microbiology
4. The Gastrointestinal Microbiome: Alcohol Effects on the Composition of Intestinal Microbiota — Alcohol Research: Current Reviews
5. The gut-brain connection — Harvard Health Publishing
6. Omega-3 may keep gut microbiota diverse and healthy — Medical News Today
7. Intestinal permeability and inflammation in patients on NSAIDs — Gut
8. Unlocking the Sleep-Gut Connection — HuffPost

The post What your itchy skin indicates about your gut appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Now, a huge study using the genetic data of more than 400,000 U.K. adults, found there is a clear link between walking at a brisk pace and slower biological aging.

A link so strong, in fact, that a lifetime of brisk walking could shave more than a decade off an individual’s biological age by midlife.

Here’s how they came to this conclusion…

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A brisk walk could be key to slower aging

Walking is one of the healthiest habits to fall into. But when you pick up the pace, something amazing happens to your telomeres, little DNA caps that work like harbingers of aging.

Telomeres are the “caps” at the end of chromosomes that protect them from damage. Their role has often been compared to how the cap at the end of a shoelace keeps it from unraveling.

Each time a cell divides, these telomeres become shorter, until finally, they become so short that the cell can no longer divide. At this point, apoptosis, or cell death is triggered. That’s why scientists consider LTL a strong biomarker for biological aging.

Short telomeres are synonymous with aging, frailty, disease and death, so you want to keep yours long for as long as you can — and walking briskly just may do the trick.

The researchers found that a faster walking pace was associated with longer telomeres — regardless of the amount of physical activity — and could translate to the equivalent of turning your biological age back 16 years.

Now, this isn’t the first time you’ve heard walking has positive health benefits. But this study is the first of its kind to compare genetic data with both self-reported walking speeds and actual measured movement intensity by wearable tracking devices.

 “Previous research on associations between walking pace, physical activity and telomere length has been limited by inconsistent findings and a lack of high-quality data,” says lead author Dr. Paddy Dempsey, a lecturer and research fellow at the University of Leicester. “This research uses genetic data to provide stronger evidence for a causal link between faster walking pace and longer telomere length.”

Dempsey noted that the data from wrist-worn tracking devices also supported a stronger role of habitual activity intensity, or faster walking, in relation to telomere length.

“This suggests measures such as a habitually slower walking speed are a simple way of identifying people at greater risk of chronic disease or unhealthy aging, and that activity intensity may play an important role in optimizing interventions,” he adds. “For example, in addition to increasing overall walking, those who are able could aim to increase the number of steps completed in a given time (e.g., by walking faster to the bus stop). However, this requires further investigation.”

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Walk now and walk briskly

Remember, the study showed a lifetime of walking could possibly turn back the clock as much as 16 years. That means start now to make up for lost time if you’ve not been beating the path.

Walk after dinner, during your lunch break and consider parking out in left field so you have further to walk to shopping destinations or when you run errands or go to the office.

As far as step counts go, you’ve probably heard the mantra that 10,000 steps a day is the goal for optimal well-being. But one study actually found that taking 7,000 steps a day is enough to lower the risk of premature death by 50 to 70 percent.

If you can add in extra steps, that’s great, but be sure to pick up your pace for maximum benefit.

If you consider yourself a slower walker, try picking up your pace until you hit roughly 3 miles an hour. A good way to judge if you’re walking “briskly” enough is if you’re able to sing. If you’re still able to hold a conversation but you can’t sing the words to a song, you’re walking at a good enough clip to make a difference in your health.

Sources:

Stop the clocks: Brisk walking may slow biological ageing process, study shows — University of Leicester

Investigation of a UK biobank cohort reveals causal associations of self-reported walking pace with telomere length — Communications Biology

Walking for health — NHS

The post Brisk walking, telomeres and how 60 may be the new 45 appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Well, maybe not…

According to a microbiologist and assistant professor of dermatology at the University of Toronto (and backed up by scientific research) you could be showering too much, which could lead to eczema and even skin cancer.

Here’s what you need to know about getting clean plus the only three areas you should soap in the shower…

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The three areas that make up ‘your bits’

Professor Sandy Skotnicki has a term for the areas that actually are OK to use body wash on. She likes to call them “the bits.”

This term encompasses your underarms, groin and feet. And that’s it!

Sound strange? Well, probably since we’re all used to scrubbing everything — forearms, legs, stomach, the whole nine yards. And it sounds even crazier considering we’re also in the midst of a global pandemic where we’re being told to wash, wash longer, wash more and then wash again.

Yet, the truth is that that recommendation is just for our hands, which are most likely to pick up the coronavirus that leads to COVID-19 when we’re out and about, touching grocery carts, door handles and credit card machines.

Professor Skotnicki says that once you’re in the shower (or bath) soaping your “bits” is all it takes to be clean. She says that even showering too often, especially when you use soap or hot water, can strip your skin’s natural barrier, removing the oils that lock in moisture.

And once your skin is dry, it can become easily irritated. That’s why she says over-washing can trigger an eczema flare-up.

Your skin’s microbiome and cancer protection

And it’s not just the risk of eczema and the extremely dry, flaky, irritated skin that comes with it that you could be risking by overusing soap and spending too much time letting hot water pore down your body in the shower.

More and more, scientists are learning that our skin is host to millions of tiny, beneficial microbes that keep it in balance and protect your health. Yet, overusing soap can carry the risk of tipping that balance to the dark side — microbes that harm rather than help your skin health.

One study using mice found that when their skin was coated with healthy bacteria from human skin and then exposed to the sun, the mice got fewer skin cancers than once coated in a different microbe. The scientists believe that this skin cancer protection came from the fact that the healthy bacteria produces a compound called 6‑N‑hydroxyaminopurine, one that seems to block the replication of tumor cells.

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Just clean enough

So, the next time you get in the shower, remember “the bits” are the way to go when it comes to soap. Your underarms, groin area and feet are all you need to worry about in order to be clean enough but not so clean that you’re destroying your skin’s microbiome and setting yourself up for eczema and skin cancer.

Of course, there’s always an exception for every rule. If you cover your entire body with sunscreen for a day at the beach or get covered in dirt and sweat after marathon yard work, you may need a total body washup. But for the most part, taking care of the bits will do just fine.

Editor’s note: The many causes of cancer are stealth, so don’t sit idly by waiting for it to happen. Explore natural ways to cut your cancer risk, including the best minerals, herbs, supplements, foods and proven therapies allowed in other countries — but denied to you by American mainstream medicine — all in his comprehensive cancer guide, Surviving Cancer! To get your copy today, plus 3 FREE reports, click here!

Sources:

1. You’re Showering Too Much — The Atlantic

The post How not to wash away your skin’s natural barrier and cancer protection appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

That’s why we’re counting down six seemingly harmless habits that can leave your face looking like a road map. If you’re doing any of these, you’ll want to make some changes:

#1 — Drinking from straws or plastic water bottles

Grabbing a drink of water is one of the best anti-aging tools in your arsenal. After all, water helps to keep your cells, including those of your skin, hydrated and plump. However, if you’re drinking using either a straw or plastic water bottle, you could be destroying much of its benefits.

That’s because drinking from a bottle or straw requires that you purse your lips, which according to dermatologists, can result in wrinkles and lip lines that leave you looking older due to the repetitive muscle motion required.

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#2 — Drinking too much coffee

If you’re like me, you can’t start your morning without coffee to wake you up and make you feel human again. However, you might want to put a one or two cup limit on your habit.

Since coffee is a diuretic, it can cause dehydration. And the simple fact is that dehydration is a major risk factor for skin aging.

In fact, Cammie Cannella, Senior VP of Global Education and Customer Relations of Kiehl’s (a major skincare brand) says that signs of dehydration include visible fine lines, loss of plumpness and dull, tired, rough-looking skin.

#3 — Using chemical-laden skincare products

When you cleanse your face, slather on your moisturizer or swipe on sunscreen, you probably believe you’re doing something good for your skin and warding off signs of aging.

But depending on what’s in those products, you could be accelerating skin problems and the aging that comes with them. That’s because many skincare products on the shelf are laden with chemicals that can damage your skin’s health and lead to premature aging.

Ingredients to avoid include:

• Alcohols, like SD alcohol 40, denatured alcohol, ethanol and isopropyl alcohol
• Sulfates, like sodium lauryl sulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate
• Chemical sunscreens like oxybenzone and avobenzone

#4 — Not cleansing your face enough

While cleansing your face too often can lead to dryness, the American Academy of Dermatology says that you should wash your face morning and night, plus whenever you sweat.

That last part is important because perspiration that sits on your face can irritate and inflame your skin, which speeds up the aging process.

#5 — Not maintaining pH balance

According to New York dermatologist Jeannette Graf, MD, “The body functions optimally with an internal pH of 7.4 — slightly alkaline. After 40, our internal natural buffering pH capacity decreases, and we become progressively acidic. This is a problem because metabolic acidosis leads to enhanced skin aging, as well as problems with internal organs due to acid buildup.”

What would she suggest? A diet like the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fiber, colorful vegetables and plenty of alkalinizing foods. Alkalinity helps improve the skin’s enzyme function. That means more green leafy vegetables and alkalinizing grains, likes oats, wild rice and quinoa.

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#6 — Drinking too much dairy

If you consume dairy on a regular basis, especially if you’re lactose intolerant, you may be setting yourself up for “inflammaging,” a term scientists coined a few years ago to describe the effects of inflammation on aging and chronic disease.

Inflammation is a major factor in skin aging and, worse, it’s thought to be behind a number of age-related conditions and diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, atherosclerosis, heart disease, type II diabetes and cancer.

The good news is that kicking these habits now can help you look more youthful in the long run. So say goodbye to premature aging and hello to happiness every time you look in the mirror!

Sources:

1. Do Straws Cause Lip Lines And Wrinkles? Top Derms Give Us The Answer — HuffPost Style & Beauty
2. Why dehydration is ageing your skin — Cosmopolitan
3. The One Common Skincare Ingredient That’s a Total Red Flag — Byrdie
4. What Ingredients Should I Avoid and Why? — Glowbiotics
5. 7 Controversial Beauty Ingredients You Should Know About — Allure
6. What you need to know about the chemicals in your sunscreen — The Washington Post
7. Face washing 101 — American Academy of Dermatology Association
8. Here’s What Happens When You Don’t Get Enough Sleep (And How Much You Really Need a Night) — Cleveland Clinic
9. Anti-Aging News: The Facts About Inflammation — Allure
10. Soothe Chronic Inflammation & Slow Premature Aging — Shape
11. Lactose intolerance — Genetics Home Reference
12. Why alkalinity is crucial to your anti-aging plant — New Beauty

The post 6 habits that age you, kick them to keep your age a secret appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Yet, at the same time, it never hurts to at least slow down that clock a bit, at least when it comes to skin aging, in order to see fewer fine lines and wrinkles, less dark spots, and even, more luminous tone.

And, there’s a new kid on the block that could deliver on that promise…

Vitamin F.

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The non-vitamin vitamin

Okay, okay — I hear you. There is no vitamin F.

And, you’re right.

Although skincare experts have coined the term, vitamin F is not a real vitamin.

In fact, the F simply stands for fat. Specifically, vitamin F is two types of fatty acids — linoleic acid (an omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (an omega-3).

Yup, the same fatty acids you get from nuts, seeds, and fish.

These acids are now the hottest trend in skincare.

Why?

Well, according to dermatologist Dr. Mamina Turegano, M.D., F.A.A.D, “Because LA and ALA play a big role in our cell membranes and immune health, they play a big role in our skin.”

The omega-6 is used by your body to create the ceramides that keep your skin cell membranes strong and healthy. And, that omega-3 is needed for your immune system and to keep inflammation balanced, both of which can determine whether your skin looks clear, even, and younger or is showing more signs of aging than your years would warrant.

Put simply, they shore up the integrity of your skin’s natural barrier.

This means that moisture and essential nutrients are locked in while the environmental toxins you’re exposed to every day that can accelerate aging are locked out.

So, is it any wonder that vitamin F has been making headlines in skincare?

Topical versus oral

According to dermatologists, you’re welcome to get your daily dose of vitamin F one of two ways (or even both for optimal skin health).

You can use the fatty acids either topically or take a supplement to get your omegas.

If you go the topical route, be sure to look for a face oil packed with sunflower, hemp seed, evening primrose, or rosehip seed.

The second way to get your vitamin F is to take your omegas orally.

So, if you’ve been missing out on the newest vitamin powerhouse, it’s time to add vitamin F to your daily regimen. Rub it on or take it in supplement form to slow premature skin aging and look and feel your best.

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Sources:

1. Dietary linoleic acid and risk of coronary heart disease — Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health
2. Health benefits of krill oil: 5 ways the supplement trumps regular fish oil — Fox News
3. Why Vitamin F For Skin Is Everywhere All Of A Sudden — The Zoe Report

The post How you can use ‘vitamin F’ to slow premature aging appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

The forehead lines, glabella (scowl lines), and lateral canthus (crow’s feet) are the usual areas that are easily fixed with botulinum toxin and lasts generally 3-5 months. For these places the effects of botox are perfect and the results are almost always exactly what’s expected.

Yet there are areas of the face where botox just isn’t the right solution. The preferred treatment for those areas is usually a dermal filler.

If you’ve been considering a dermal filler procedure but needed to know more, I’ll explain how it works on different areas of the face to show the most benefit…

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A Dermal filler makes profound face changes

Inevitably, with age, comes a loss of fullness and support in the face. Certain areas may appear to sag while others may look hollow. One noticeable example is when the muscle and tissue of the cheek area lose volume.

Dermal fillers can help “replace” that loss to recreate a fuller, more youthful-looking cheek contour that can be quite profound.

Dermal filler lasts 9-24 months depending on the type used and can fill in and re-shape a number of important facial areas.

Related: Is a ‘thread lift’ for you?

Dermal fillers are injected using either a traditional sharp needle or, a newer technique using what’s known as a blunt-tip cannula. The blunt-tip cannula is gaining in popularity because the bruising and pain are far less than with the traditional sharp needle. Sharp needles can even penetrate small face veins routinely which causes several weeks of bruising on the face.

So, when meeting with the doctor who will handle your procedures be sure to ask him about using a cannula needle where possible so you can look your new best without downtime.

Let’s look at these facial areas that are so well served by using a blunt tip cannula to inject dermal filler.

Where on your face can filler be used?

Before getting started, your doctor and his specially trained nurse will talk with you about areas you’re concerned about and make recommendations. They will literally map out a plan on your face by marking injection sites.

Your face will be cleansed to help deter infection and anesthetized. An anesthetic ointment can be applied to each site where you would receive a local anesthesia injection.

Then it’s time to being with the dermal filler. Here is a list of possible areas of treatment…

Source: Provided by Dr. Michael Cutler

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1. Deep glabellar or forehead lines. When botox does not fix the deep “11” lines of the glabella, then ask for filler with a blunt-tip cannula. It may take a sharp needle to fill in the more superficial skin area there.
2. Sunken temples. The temple areas that sink in over the years can be restored to a much more youthful appearance with the longer-acting Juvéderm Voluma using a blunt-tip (minimal if any bruising) or sharp needle.
3. Nose job. “Liquid rhinoplasty” is the new term used for a non-surgical nose shape correction using dermal filler. This is best done using both a blunt tip and a sharp needle injection.
4. Pre-jowl sulcus. You’ve seen the sunken divots on each side of the jaw that is created by sagging lower face skin there. Blunt tip cannula works wonderfully in this area. One full syringe of filler on each side will make a wonderful improvement.
5. Tear trough (a.k.a. infra-orbital hollow). I have treated this with filler using only sharp injection until very recently. Now I see how easy it is to use a cannula and avoid bruising. However, obstruction of lymphatic flow in this area is still possible with a cannula, therefore the placement must be deep just over the bone there.
6. Cheek hollow. Voluma fills this sunken mid-cheek area nicely
7. Lips: vermillion border, cupid’s bow (philtrum), and general volume
8. Oral commissure (down-turned mouth): can be turned up by injecting filler at the corners of the lower lip
9. Lip (“smokers”) lines: Tiny superficial sharp needle injections of filler will greatly soften these lines
10. Nasolabial folds: cannula works great here with only a single point of entry
11. Marionette lines: The same entry point can be used for this area
12. Chin crease
13. Neck creases front and back: a great place to use a cannula for filler
14. Back of hands: Radiesse via cannula makes the back of hands appear 20-30 years younger.

Once the procedure is complete, any marking the nurse made will be wiped away. You’ll likely be advised to apply an ice pack to reduce swelling and mild discomfort. You might be tender for a few days, and hopefully, experience little to no bruising.

To slowing aging, looking good and feeling good,

Michael Cutler, M.D.

The post What to expect during a dermal filler procedure appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Despite what you may be thinking, it’s nothing too crazy. It’s not smoking, drinking, doing drugs or even eating donuts. It’s wearing makeup.

Makeup is filled with chemicals — everything from phthalates to parabens to formaldehyde. And these chemicals can affect your hormonal balance, reduce fertility, cause allergic reactions and even increase your cancer risk.

Yet many women (just like me) continue to wear makeup daily. Granted, some makeup brands are healthier than others. I try to buy from clean, green, organic brands. But even if you do that, you’re not getting off risk-free. Why?

There’s another dangerous component in your makeup beyond chemicals. And this time it’s something makeup manufacturers didn’t intentionally include in their fancy formulas — superbugs.

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The trendy beauty product that’s teeming with superbugs

A new study from researchers at Aston University in the UK found that many of our makeup products are contaminated with superbugs.

In the study, researchers tested five categories of used beauty products: lipstick, lip gloss, eyeliners, mascaras and beauty blenders. And guess what?

Roughly, 79 to 90 percent of these products contained bacteria, including potentially deadly superbugs like E. coli, Citrobacter freundii and Staphylococci.

Beauty blenders contained the most harmful bacteria. In case you don’t know, beauty blenders are egg-shaped sponges used to apply makeup. They’ve become popular in the last few years because they make your foundation look more natural, while still providing great coverage.

Researchers say beauty blenders are major superbug magnets because foundation makes them damp, and bacteria love dampness. But there’s also a hygiene issue happening…

Beauty blenders get dirty quickly, which means they need to be washed or replaced frequently. And most people just aren’t doing that enough. In fact, 93 percent of beauty blenders tested in the study had never been washed and 64 percent of them had been dropped on the floor during use. Yikes!

But here’s the big question: What dangers could the superbugs hiding in your makeup case cause you?

Well, if these bacteria get into your eyes, mouth, cuts or scrapes, they could cause anything from skin infections to blood poisoning. And the risk is especially high for people who have compromised immune systems.

The secret to superbug-free makeup

The European Union has very strict hygiene standards for makeup manufacturers. They say that E. Coli shouldn’t be found in any concentration in new makeup products. And they require expiration dates on makeup products (which isn’t required in the U.S.).  But obviously, there’s nothing governmental regulators can do once the makeup is in your hands.

So, how do you protect yourself from dangerous bacteria in your makeup?

Related: 3 personal care products you’d be better off making yourself

Well, first off, keep your makeup tools clean. That includes beauty blenders, makeup brushes and any other devices that touch your face. If you use a beauty blender, you should give it a quick rinse after every use and replace it every three months at a minimum. You should clean makeup brushes every week to two weeks, depending on how often you use them.

Also, avoid using makeup that’s past its prime. The older the makeup, the more bacteria it likely contains. Since makeup manufacturers aren’t required to put expiration dates on makeup in the U.S., here are some shelf life guidelines that can help you decide if your makeup is a bacterial hazard that’s better tossed in the trash:

• Foundation shelf life: six months to one year
• Lipstick, liner and gloss shelf life: one year
• Brow and eyeliner pencils shelf life: one year
• Mascara shelf life: three months
• Liquid eyeliner shelf life: three to four months
• Blush and powder shelf life: two years
• Cream blush and highlighter stick shelf life: 12 to 18 months
• Eyeshadow shelf life: three to six months

Sources:

1. Revealed: The deadly superbugs lurking in more than nine in ten make-up bags — MedicalXpress
2. Microbiological study of used cosmetic products: highlighting possible impact on consumer health — Journal of Applied Microbiology
3. How Often Should You Replace Your Beauty Blender? — Allure
4. How to Clean Your Makeup Brushes (and How Often You Should Do It) — Allure
5. What You Really Need to Know About Makeup Expiration Dates — Byrdie

The post Meet the superbugs living in your makeup bag appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But, when you end up with another health condition, it can be like living dead center between a rock (your disease) and a hard place (the way the drugs your doctor prescribes can affect your psoriasis).

This is especially true if you also have high blood pressure.

High blood pressure is a life-threatening condition if not properly managed. So, filling any prescription your doctor writes seems like a no-brainer…

At least until your psoriasis flare-ups get worse and your irritated skin becomes swollen as it cracks and bleeds.

You may wonder, “Good, grief, what did my doctor put me on?”

Well, probably a beta-blocker — the most commonly prescribed treatment for conditions like high blood pressure and even irregular heartbeat.

Unfortunately, for people with psoriasis, things just aren’t that simple…

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A psoriasis trigger

You see, scientists have long known that beta-blockers can cause severe skin inflammation. However, no one really knew why, so, too often, psoriasis patients were forced to just grin and bear their flare-ups to keep their blood pressure under control.

But scientists dug in and specifically looked at the effects of one very commonly used beta-blocker known as propranolol, and its effect on psoriatic cells.

And, they found that the problem comes down to three things that exacerbate psoriasis…

#1 – Fat Soluble

Propranolol, like a number of beta-blockers, is fat-soluble.

This allows the drug to cross the membranes that enclose cells — where the next factor comes into play…

#2 – Alkaline

Because the drug is also slightly alkaline, once it crosses those membranes, it gets stuck and can’t get back out.

And, over time, more and more of the drug builds up in the cells.

#3 – Recycling

Altogether, this process interferes with your cells’ ability to take out the trash (a process known as autophagy) and get rid of defective proteins that worsen psoriasis.

“This, in turn, alters a number of processes in the cell. As a result, it releases inflammatory messengers, in particular, the so-called interleukin-23, which is mainly secreted by immune cells. The consequences are the observed skin problems,” explains Prof. Dr. Günther Weindl from the Pharmaceutical Institute at the University of Bonn.

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Protecting your skin

According to the team, the results of this study may have given patients who suffer from both psoriasis and heart problems some good news.

For one, if you’ve been experiencing psoriasis flare-ups while taking a beta-blocker, you can rest assured that the connection between these flare-ups and your medication is NOT just in your head but in the drug itself.

Secondly, since the exacerbating effects of propranolol were linked to it being fat-soluble, it’s possible that taking an alternate drug that is less likely to cross your cell membranes could decrease the side effects it causes.

So, if you are living with psoriasis and have been given a prescription for a beta-blocker, talk to your doctor about your options and which drugs are less likely to worsen your skin inflammation.

And, if you’re taking a beta-blocker for high blood pressure, you should also check out these 19 natural, drug-free alternatives for healthy blood pressure by Dr. Michael Cutler, a board-certified family physician with more than 20 years of experience.

Sources:

1. Why beta-blockers cause skin inflammation — EurekAlert!

The post Have you wondered why your psoriasis is worse since developing high blood pressure? appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Yet, even though I would love to look younger and have smooth, wrinkle-free skin, I also don’t want to head off to one of those fancy medical spas and have a doctor inject toxins to freeze my wrinkles or syringes of fillers to plump my skin.

So, what’s the answer?

Am I stuck with lines, wrinkles, and sagging that steadily gets worse or is there a better way?

Luckily, a new study has the answer and it’s all-natural — no doctors or injections necessary.

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The signs of aging start with collagen loss

The study, published in Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine set out to discover whether a popular skin health supplement, known as BioCell Collagen®, could actually work to produce real, measurable changes.

The supplement, taken in either powdered or pill form, is made using a naturally occurring matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II, chondroitin sulfate and hyaluronic acid. The theory behind it is that the mix will slow and reverse the collagen loss that’s associated with all of those signs of aging we hate.

Related: The Sexy 7: Tips that keep a body young (slideshow)

Collagen is a protein central to the elasticity and regeneration of our skin. It’s responsible for keeping skin firm, plump, smooth and young-looking. After the age of 20, our natural production of collagen reduces by one percent each year.

In this research, 128 women between the ages of 39 and 59 were into two groups. One group took the 500 mg of the collagen supplement twice daily, while the other was given a placebo for a period of 12 weeks.

And, according to the researchers, BioCell Collagen won hands down.

Throughout the study, participants’ skin was visually graded monthly to determine the intervention’s efficacy, measurements of facial lines and wrinkles, definition of crow’s feet lines and wrinkles, level of skin texture and smoothness, and skin tone.

Here are the results BioCell Collagen delivered:

• Increased skin collagen content by 12 percent
• Significantly reduced facial lines and wrinkles
• Reduced the width of crow’s feet and wrinkles compared to placebo
• Improved skin elasticity compared to placebo

Yup, just 12 weeks of taking the collagen supplement enhanced collagen levels and elasticity and improved the look of fine lines, wrinkles, and crow’s feet.

Not bad for something that could also help your joints move easier!

As Alexander Schauss, Ph.D., a co-author of the study, puts it, “This landmark research is especially encouraging for women who are seeking safe and effective options for meeting their skin health and appearance goals, including those who are considering or already using cosmetic procedures to address skin aging.”

In other words, why put yourself through a dangerous cosmetic procedure or injection when you could take a safe supplement that works?

And, BioCell Collagen® is easy to find. It’s not only available as a stand-alone product, but is also used as an ingredient in numerous skincare and joint supplement brands. So, all you have to do is pick the one that’s right for you and take it daily.

Now, I haven’t tried it yet, but with results this promising to back it up, you can bet I plan to!

Sources:

1. Study shows BioCell collagen can visibly reduce common signs of skin aging within 12 weeks — EurekAlert!

The post The collagen supplement that gets results in just 12 weeks appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

That’s because, despite all of her natural beauty, she had acne scarring from the time she was in her teens. And, every single time she looked in a mirror, those scars were all she could see.

Over the years she considered laser treatments and chemical peels but was concerned about the time commitment, the pain of the procedures, and the anticipated downtime.

Related: What does adult acne and chronic disease have in common?

Fast forward a few years… and now she’s discovered what may be the easiest, most well-tolerated and now-proven, best answer to those acne scars…

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What is microneedling?

If you haven’t heard the term before, microneedling is a process where a roller with small needles is used to make tiny injuries in your skin.

The whole idea is that the microinjuries and punctures caused by the needles will stimulate your skin to send collagen and elastin to the sites to repair them. And, in the process, it’s supposed to help skin look smoother, softer, and yes – younger.

Usually, it takes anywhere between four to six sessions to get the results your looking for and they’re usually spaced about a month apart. Of course, the number of sessions needed can change based on the extent of your issues. Each time, slightly deeper needles will be used in order to increase the power of the treatment.

And, while you can get the dermarollers used in microneedling for use at home, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has stated concerns about safety and recommended only medical grade microneedling devices. This means that if you want to try microneedling, you’re best off going to a licensed esthetician, dermatologist, or medical spa.

Does it work for acne scars?

Of course, the big question is whether or not it works and is worth your time and money.

Luckily, a new study from researchers at Boston University School of Medicine has the answer…

The researchers reviewed all the scientific studies done on microneedling for the treatment of acne scars from 2009 to 2018. In all, the team analyzed 33 studies studying both the efficacy of treating acne scarring with microneedling, microneedling in combination with other topical treatments, and overall patient satisfaction.

And, they found that every one of the 33 articles analyzed reported improvement of acne scar appearance as well as increased patient satisfaction when microneedling was used in combination with another therapy.

And, to top it off, they discovered the benefits of microneedling included:

• A decrease in inflammatory markers released by cells
• An overall increase in collagen
• An increase in skin rejuvenating cell markers to help heal scarring

As study author Neelam Vashi, MD, associate professor of dermatology at BUSM and director of the Boston University Cosmetic and Laser Center at Boston Medical Center, explained, “With this systematic way of looking at all the data over the past decade, it is clear that microneedling works and helps reduce the appearance of acne scars for patients.”

So, if you’re one of the 50 million Americans with acne scarring and you’re ready to rid yourself of those signs for good, microneedling could be the answer.

And, there’s more good news…

Although microneedling may sound scary (after all, who wants needles stuck into the delicate skin of their face) most people, including my friend say that it’s easily tolerated. In fact, most providers will apply a numbing cream prior to treatment.

Another benefit over treatments that include chemical peels and lasers, there’s not really any downtime. You can leave your dermatologist’s office and go back to work with little redness.

Now that the verdict is in and we know that microneedling works, the choice to go for it or not is up to you.

Sources:

1. Microneedling improves appearance of acne scars — EurekAlert!

The post Microneedling may be the best treatment for acne scars appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Many women — and some men — are taking advantage of this non-surgical, no down-time way to improve on the effects of gravity.

Most of the time, these cosmetic procedures go off without a hitch… but occasionally one of the top listed risks is an allergic reaction at the injection site that can affect the whole body.

But did you know that your own fat has the best source of growth factors and stem cells for tissue healing — and is a great dermal filler? And I’d be surprised to find anyone was allergic to their own fat!

Related: What are your choices for sagging skin?

I recently attended the San Diego Academy of Regenerative Therapies (SDART) annual conference. According to the world physician experts who presented there, fat is far better than dermal filler for all cosmetic applications and is the best healer of joints when combined with your own platelet-rich plasma (PRP).

Let me share some great things about fat transfer…

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Fat harvesting in the office

Autologous fat transfer is a two-part procedure. Fat is harvested from body areas such as your abdomen, hips, thighs, or back by a “mini” liposuction technique. It is said by surgeons that everyone has a pocket of fat somewhere on their body. Then, your fat is processed and re-injected where you need it.  Here are some cool details if you are wondering.

Sounds painful, however, all that is needed is local anesthesia using the tumescent infiltration technique. To begin the tumescent anesthesia technique, an entry point area is created where it is first numbed by injecting buffered lidocaine with epinephrine through a tiny needle, so pain is very minimal. Once numbed, the entry port is created using a 16- or 18-gauge needle so a blunt tip infiltrator cannula can be introduced, and large amounts of the tumescent anesthesia fluid are gently distributed all throughout the area of fat to be harvested. This also helps soften and prepare the fat to be harvested after a 20-minute wait time for the anesthesia to take effect.

Now the fat area is completely numbed, and the blunt tip harvester cannula can fit through that same entry port into your soft fat. Only then does the doctor go to work moving this specialized cannula back and forth under constant suction in a small fan-like pattern, slowly collecting liquified fat.

While you wait, your collected fat must be cleansed from the oils and also the liquid anesthesia that is mixed in the initial sample. This occurs by placing the syringe upright while the separation occurs by simple gravity effect. The tumescent anesthesia fluid is drained off from below, and the oils (with no cells or growth factors) are pushed off the top. All that’s left is “structural fat.”

Micro-fat

This structural fat is further liquified into micro-fat using a small device. The structural fat that is first harvested and cleansed could be re-injected into larger body areas such as breasts and buttocks, although leading-edge doctors will process it to micro-fat to prevent breast microcalcification and cysts.

Fat transfer breast enhancement reshapes and gives a modest size increase to breasts. This is especially great if you want to avoid breast augmentation using synthetic implants. Most patients gain from a half to a full cup size increase, although some surgeons are now teaching that full mounds can be created. The amount of fat needed to harvest is 200-400 ml.

Fat is similarly harvested and then grafted in even layers to enhance buttock size and reshape. This provides a more natural-appearing buttock profile compared to silicone implants, and can even achieve the desired size increase without the extended recovery period.

Micro-fat is also great for larger face areas needing lift and correction of age-related volume loss such as temples, cheek hollows, jaw, lower face, and even lips. After injection, it immediately produces subtle, natural enhancement.

Healing time from fat transfer to the face is approximately two weeks. However, you have almost no social downtime (i.e. could be seen in public comfortably the next day). Fat transfer to buttocks can take several months. For this, a compression garment is used for a few weeks following the procedure to facilitate healing and optimal results.

Nano-fat

The micro-fat is further liquified and processed into nano-fat using a similar device, to be injected to smaller, more delicate areas that need filling and regeneration (remember this fat contains stem cells and growth factors, the perfect substance to generate health to any tissue where it is placed). These areas include under eyes (tear trough), nasolabial folds, lip lines (a.k.a. “smoker’s lines”), lip contouring, or the even the back of your hands. All this is done using a blunt tip cannula.

Nano-fat is even better when mixed with your own blood’s platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Therefore, after nano-fat is introduced into these areas using the blunt tip cannula, PRP fluid is also introduced through the same cannula by switching off the syringe. Remember that it provides long-lasting volume compared to synthetic fillers that only last 1-2 years.

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Fat transfer better than dermal filler

In addition to reducing unwanted body spot fat areas, fat transfer can enhance the sagging areas of your face better than any dermal filler can. That’s because, for example, just 20 ml of fat will make several cosmetic improvements in one procedure, whereas such amounts of filler would be unthinkable.

Fat produces more natural-appearing changes and lasts many years longer than filler. That’s because after it has been processed down to micro or nano fat, it is much softer and therefore easy to move around and smooth out. Compare that with dermal filler that is deposited in lumps and only partially smooths out (over weeks). Fat is always placed using blunt tip cannulas and minimal if any bruising occurs.

Finally, while there is some initial volume loss after fat transfer because your body will absorb some of the grafted fat, any fat that remains past six months is a permanent enhancement.

In my next article, I’d like to share some of the impressive science about the healing and regenerative properties of our own fat, and autologous fat transfer.

To healing and feeling good,

Michael Cutler, M.D.

The post Using your own fat for plumper cheeks, lips and more appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

In fact, she now loves to participate in my skincare ritual twice a day — cleansing, toning, serums, and moisturizers. You name it, she’s into it.

And, one of the most important things I believe that I’ve taught her about caring for her skin is that when you wash your face, you do it twice.

Yes, you read that right — twice.

If you haven’t heard of it before, washing your face twice every time may sound weird but it’s a trend that has been booming over the past few years. It’s called the double cleanse.

And, when I first tried it myself a little over a year ago, I became immediately hooked and I think you will too. Here are the ins and outs of how and why you should always wash your face twice…

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Based on Korean skincare

I first read about the double cleanse in a beauty blog that I follow. It’s a system based on the Korean regimen of skincare and it promised to deliver clearer, healthier skin and smaller pores — a promise I’ve found to be true.

To break it down to its simplest form, you use an oil-based cleanser first followed by a water-based cleanser.

The reason behind the hype is the fact that oil-based cleansers are considered better for getting rid of all of that excess oil that builds up on your skin as well as your oil-based products, like makeup and sunscreen. And, when you follow with a water-based cleanser, you’re able to whisk away all of the pore-clogging dirt that oil cleanser can miss.

Done right, the double cleansing system can leave your skin cleaner than ever before and your pores pristine, without the worry of drying it out. And, of course, since you’re getting rid of the oil and dirt that can dull your appearance, a radiant glow is just another benefit of doubling up on your cleansing routine.

In fact, the benefits of the double cleanse have made it so popular that it’s even embraced by worldwide celebs, including Meghan Markle.

Choosing your cleansers

But, you do need to know how to choose the right cleansers if you want to make the double cleanse work for you…

First, to find an oil-based cleanser, look for one that’s called a cleansing balm or cleansing oil. Since they’re packed with natural emollients, they’re not only less likely to cause irritation, they can also help ward off dryness.

There are plenty on the market, and some may be pricier than others. But don’t forget about the original oil-based cleanser, coconut oil.

Skincare experts explain that “oil dissolves oil.” You may be skeptical at first and worry that coconut oil will leave you with an oily face, but that’s not the case at all. Massaging oil into your face is extremely relaxing and therapeutic — like a spa treatment.

Another beauty oil making a resurgence is black seed oil. It’s been around for quite a while though. In fact, it’s reported to have been one of Cleopatra’s (as in the queen of the Nile) most guarded beauty secrets. Vitamin A, amino acids, and fatty acids found in black seed oil work together to regenerate skin cells. It’s also reported to naturally help fight acne. So I’ve just started giving it a try and am pleasantly surprised at how good my skin feels and looks.

Related: Coconut oil for natural, luxurious skin and hair care

For that water-based cleanser, simply check the ingredient list. If the first item listed is water, it’s a good option. You’ll just have to remember to try a few out to see which one works for you and is gentle enough not to dry your skin.

One thing that can help is to look for one with a pH between 4 and 6 so that it more closely matches your skin’s own natural pH and to moisturize immediately after use.

Once you try the double cleanse, you’ll love how amazing and fresh your skin feels and looks. And, if you’re like me, you’ll never go back to a single wash again.

Sources:

1. Why you should wash your face twice — Vox

The post Try double cleansing with oil and water for smaller pores and radiant skin appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

A few months back, I wrote about breast implants: what they’re made of and the risks of using them.

“Risk” is really putting it mildly. We’re talking about higher chances for developing arthritis, autoimmune disease and cancer.

Around the same time, I told you about the convoluted system of loopholes that allows manufacturers of medical devices, including implants, to throw sand over the potential risks and keep the truth to themselves.

So, why am I writing to you about this again?

Because once again, instead of forcing the hand of manufacturers who won’t deal with the dangers of their product head-on, the FDA is choosing to turn their famous blind eye to the situation.

As a result, thousands of women are developing a deadly disease…

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Approve now, test later

Manufacturers of breast implants have very little motivation to be meticulous about the safety of their products.

They can get an implant onto the market after conducting some basic clinical trials, and then are required to continue further research to make absolutely certain their product is safe.

That’s kind of like letting a stranger into your house because they look OK, then once they’re inside, checking to see if they have a weapon.

In 2006, the FDA approved breast implants manufactured by Mentor LLC. In 2013, breast implants made by Sientra Inc. came to market.

As a condition of their product’s approval, the FDA required these two companies (and all manufacturers of implants) to conduct two types of long-term studies to make sure their devices are in fact effective and safe in “real life.”

“Long-term” is the problem here.

Sure, it takes time to see whether women using implants suffer any health issues. But the women then become the guinea pigs, while the manufacturer is free to drag its heels in completing these trials. After all, they’re already selling their product.

Just this year, the FDA issued warning letters to both companies for having failed to comply with these requirements. That’s seven years for Sientra and thirteen years for Monitor — years in which they’ve profited, but not protected the women using their product.

The “slap-on-the-hand” warning letter is little reason for them to jump to attention.

And now, the FDA has decided not to remove from the market a particular type of implant that is turning deadly…

A rare cancer caused by breast implants

In some women, implants may be associated with a constellation of symptoms known as “breast implant illness.” These symptoms include chronic fatigue, pain, cognitive and immune problems.

But there’s a bigger danger.

Anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, has been linked exclusively to implants that have a rough or textured surface. Surgeons often prefer these because they’re easier to place.

In March, a two-day public forum was held where researchers, patient advocates, and women who have implant-related illnesses spoke out and urged the FDA to ban the use of textured implants.

In the end, only a handful of the FDA panelists seemed to favor this. Most were more interested in exploring the medical and personal family histories that might be making women more vulnerable to this cancer and to implant-related diseases as a whole.

Can you say, “blame the victim”?

The latest FDA statement says the risk of developing BIA-ALCL in women with textured breast implants ranges from one in 3,817 to 1 in 30,000 based on studies reported in medical literature.

This type of implant is manufactured by Mentor and Sientra, who stand by their products.

But 38 countries have pulled one brand of implants, Allergan, off the market. However, all brands are still sold in the U.S.

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Make an informed decision

An NBC News investigation in partnership with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists last fall reported the cancer could be much more common than what the FDA reports — as high as one case out of every 1,000 women with breast implants, according to Australian health officials.

But the FDA said the implants available in Australia are different from those sold in the U.S., which complicates efforts to figure out the true risks.

Clearly, it’s an individual woman’s choice as to whether or not to try breast implants.

But women and patient advocates who spoke at the hearings made it clear that they were under-informed, and even misinformed, about the risks and dangers.

If you or someone you love are considering breast implants, here are some tips on how to make the most informed decision possible.

Look at the research. Here are a few places to start.

• Largest-Ever Study Shows Silicone Breast Implants Associated With Rare Diseases
• “What You Need to Know About Breast Implants” – National Center for Health Research
• Are My Breast Implants Causing My Health Problems? – National Women’s Health Network
• Women with silicone breast implants and unexplained systemic symptoms: a descriptive cohort study

All breast implants break, eventually. An FDA study in the year 2000 found that, of 344 women with a total of 687 implants, 378 of them, or 55 percent, had ruptured. A ruptured implant can cause pain, swelling, and infection.

Know the risks. The FDA lists the following as possible health risks associated with all breast implants:

• Additional surgeries
• Breast implant-associated-anaplastic large cell lymphoma
• Capsular contracture (scar tissue that squeezes the implant)
• Breast pain
• Rupture (tears or holes in the shell) and a deflated implant
• Silent (without symptoms) rupture
• Infection

Talk to your doctor. As with any major, potentially health-changing procedure, a conversation with your doctor to see what he or she knows and recommends is warranted.

Sources:

1. F.D.A. Won’t Ban Sales of Textured Breast Implants Linked to Cancer — The New York Times
2. 5 Things to Know About Breast Implants — FDA
3. Prevalence of rupture of silicone gel breast implants revealed on MR imaging in a population of women in Birmingham, Alabama — American Journal of Roentgenology
4. FDA issues warning letters to two breast implant manufacturers for failure to comply with post-approval study requirements — FDA
5. Doctors, patients warn about cancer linked to textured breast implants — Today

The post What women need to know about breast implants linked to cancer appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

We break out the boogie boards, relax in the sun, and spend as much time as possible in the surf.

Unfortunately, though, it carries some risks… and I’m not just talking about the undercurrents.

But just like my family, hoards of vacationers still flock to the beach, opting for ocean spray over time in the hotel pool, even though ocean water holds something we all should be concerned about… dangerous bacteria.

A recent study investigated the threat, and what you need to know about how it interacts with your skin so you can be better protected…

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Your skin microbiome

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine set out to determine what effect ocean swimming has on your skin microbiome and whether or not it can leave you more open to infection. Their research was motivated by three things:

• Previous studies which have shown associations between ocean swimming and infections;
• The high prevalence of poor water quality at many beaches, due to wastewater and stormwater runoff;
• And recent research which has demonstrated that changes in the microbiome can leave the host susceptible to infection – gastrointestinal and respiratory illness, ear infections, and those dreaded skin infections we’re seeing in the news more often.

The team used volunteers at a beach who met criteria of no sunscreen use, infrequent exposure to the ocean, no bathing within the last 12 hours, and no antibiotics during the previous six months.

They then took a sample of their pre-ocean skin microbiome by swabbing the participants on the back of the calf before they entered the water. Each person was checked again after their skin air-dried completely following a ten-minute swim, and then again at six and 24 hours post-swim.

And, here’s where it gets worrisome…

Although the participants’ skin microbiomes were slightly different from each other’s before swimming, after time in the ocean they all had similar types of bacteria on their skin, which were completely different from their “before swim” bacterial communities.

And, those bacteria were still detectable up to 24 hours post-swim on their skin, although some participants had acquired more ocean bacteria and/or had them persist for longer.

The worst part was that one type of bacteria that was found on each and every one of the ocean swimmers was the Vibrio species — the flesh-eating bacteria behind necrotizing fasciitis you’ve been hearing so much about in the news this summer.

This genus of bacteria is also behind acute gastroenteritis from eating raw or undercooked shellfish, like oysters, and is the causative agent behind cholera.

Related: Beware sand castle invaders that can ruin beach fun

Even worse, the amount of the Vibrio species found on the participants’ skin was also more than 10 times greater than the amount found in the ocean water sample, which according to the researchers means that it has a special affinity for attaching to human skin.

“While many Vibrio are not pathogenic, the fact that we recovered them on the skin after swimming demonstrates that pathogenic Vibrio species could potentially persist on the skin after swimming,” said Marisa Chattman Nielsen, MS, a Ph.D. student at the University of California, Irvine, and the lead author on the study.

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Your first line of defense

This study is especially concerning since your skin is your body’s first line of defense, to protect you from infections that could take over.

But, do you have to give up your beach trips altogether in order to protect yourself?

Well, the researchers didn’t come up with any final recommendations on that but the Florida Department of Health in Bay County just recently advised visitors to their beaches to “use caution when entering any open body of water.” They also suggest that “if you have breaks in the skin such as cuts or sores, avoid getting in the water. If you are immunocompromised, wear shoes or foot protection to avoid getting cut by shells or rocks on the beach or in the water.”

And if you experience any signs of infection following a dip in the ocean — or any body of water for that matter — see a doctor immediately. The Florida health department stressed that rapid diagnosis is the key to effective treatment and recovery.

But knowing what we now do about how the well and how long bacteria adheres to your skin after a dip in the ocean, it makes perfect common sense to get in the habit of showering immediately after your day at the beach is over. It may also help to try a probiotic skin cream that can deliver healthy bacteria to your skin following an ocean swim.

For me, I can’t see my family giving up our time in the ocean any time soon. However, if like us you continue to spend time in the surf, it’s important to know your risks and watch for water quality warnings.

Sources:

1. Ocean swimming alters skin microbiome, increasing vulnerability to infection — American Society for Microbiology
2. Flesh-eating bacteria in Florida: Beaches open but caution urged, officials say — AL.com

The post Just how dangerous is a dip in the ocean these days? appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

But I’m not the only one who should be thinking about iron regularly. Iron deficiency is the most common nutrient deficiency in the U.S. And certain people have an unusually high risk…

Women, anyone who doesn’t eat meat, kids, and people who donate blood a lot should all take extra measures to get enough iron.

Iron deficiency, as you probably know, causes anemia. And anemia can get severe. It can even cause heart problems if it’s not treated. Plus, it makes you feel lousy. You get headaches, dizziness, and lightheadedness. You feel weak and fatigued. And who needs that?

Related: 9 strange signs you’re anemic

But what happens if you overdo the iron?

According to a new research paper, it could be just as bad. It could even put you at risk for a serious skin infection.

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Excess iron gives you better cholesterol but a higher risk of cellulitis from staph

A new research paper published in PLOS Medicine dove into the connection between iron intake and diseases.

Researchers took data from 500,000 people to see how their iron intake affected their risk of developing 900 diseases and conditions. Here’s what they found…

Excess iron can reduce your risk of high cholesterol… which is great. That means it could help prevent heart disease and strokes. But this benefit comes with some baggage…

High iron increases your risk of bacterial skin infections like abscesses and cellulitis. In case you don’t know, cellulitis is a common skin infection that happens when streptococcus and staphylococcus bacteria get into your skin. And it can turn serious fast.

If you have cellulitis, your skin will be red, swollen and warm to the touch. It’ll probably feel tender too. If you experience these symptoms, you’ll want to seek medical attention ASAP. Cellulitis spreads quickly and can even kill you.

Why would excess iron increase your odds of developing this serious skin infection?

Well, previous research shows that bacteria need iron to survive. When there’s plenty of iron to go around, they spread quickly.

How to get enough (but not too much) iron

So, the million-dollar question is… how do you get enough iron without going overboard and putting yourself at risk for skin infections?

Well, start by getting your RDA of iron. Women between 19 and 50 years old need 18 mg per day. Women 51 and older need 8 mg per day. Pregnant women need 27 mg per day. And lactating women need 9 mg per day. Men 19 or older need 8 mg per day.

Once you’re vigilant about getting enough iron daily for a while, get your iron levels tested to see where you stand. Some people don’t absorb iron well due to a variety of factors, so this is a good way to tell if you need to go beyond the iron RDA.

There are also some people who are prone to accruing excess iron in their body. In fact, there’s a condition called hereditary hemochromatosis that causes people to accrue dangerous levels of iron. But even if you don’t have this rare condition, it’s easy to end up with high iron levels… especially if you’re older than 67. Research shows that older adults are more likely to have high iron levels.

One of the most common ways people overdo iron is by taking supplements. Multivitamin supplements usually contain 100 percent of your RDA of iron, but iron supplements often contain 365 percent of your iron RDA.

That’s why, unless you’re at risk for low levels, it’s safer to get iron by eating iron-rich foods, like:

• Meat
• Beans
• Pumpkin and squash seeds
• Leafy greens
• Dried fruit
• Tofu
• Eggs
• Seafood
• Potato
• Stewed or sundried tomatoes
• Nuts

Sources:

1. High on iron? It stops anaemia but has a downside — MedicalXpress
2. What are the symptoms of an iron deficiency? — Medical News Today
3. Iron Deficiency Anemia Secondary to Inadequate Dietary Iron Intake — Healthline
4. Iron deficiency anemia — Mayo Clinic
5. Cellutlitis — Mayo Clinic
6. Iron: Fact Sheet for Professionals — National Institutes of Health
7. Everything you need to know about iron — Medical News Today

The post Are your iron supplements putting you at risk for a serious skin infection? appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

Basically, like with all autoimmune diseases, your body turns on itself attacking your own tissues — in the case of psoriasis, your skin.

You can end up with silver or red scaly patches that are itchy, inflamed and yes… painful.

It’s a condition that I know all too well since my first flare-up of the disease began during college. My elbows and scalp were coated in the plaques and they would itch, burn and sometimes even bleed. It was awful and no matter what medications, creams, or shampoos the doctor prescribed, nothing helped.

It’s a story all too common to psoriasis sufferers.

Now, though, thanks to a new study out of Norway, there might be an effective way for at least some people living with psoriasis to find relief. In fact, it worked for me years before this research made the connection…

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The chicken or the egg?

Studies have linked psoriasis and higher weight, but the reason behind the relationship has been unclear. It’s like the old chicken or the egg question — which came first?

“Higher BMI may contribute to increased inflammation of the skin, which can exacerbate psoriasis, but it could also be that psoriasis leads to a person being less physically active and thus gaining weight,” says Mari Løset, a medical doctor at the Department of Dermatology at St. Olavs Hospital and a postdoctoral fellow at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology’s (NTNU) K.G. Jebsen Center for Genetic Epidemiology.

So, her team set out to discover the answer and find out if having a higher body mass index, or BMI, increased the risk for psoriasis…

They analyzed data from 750,000 people and they found that in Norway alone, incidences of psoriasis more than doubled in just over 25 years. According to the researchers, similar studies from other parts of the world show the same type of increases.

To see if there was any causal relationship between BMI and psoriasis, the team used a method called Mendelian randomization. All external factors that could influence the results were eliminated.

In the end, they were able to prove conclusively that having a higher body weight contributes to problems with psoriasis. In fact, the greater the BMI, the greater the chances of getting the disease.

“We calculated that the risk increased by nine percent for each higher whole number on the BMI scale,” Løset says.

It looks like the chicken or the egg question has been settled at least in the case and body weight is the answer to which came first.

What’s weight got to do with psoriasis?

Unfortunately, the researchers are still not sure just how being overweight can lead to psoriasis although they do say that the fact that fatty tissue produces hormones and inflammatory molecules could be behind the connection.

There also hasn’t been a lot of research on losing weight can help you rid yourself of this skin condition once it starts but a few clinical studies show that it’s certainly a possibility.

And, you know how I said that I suffered from psoriasis during college?

Well, at that time, I had not only put on the classic “Freshman 15,” I had packed on an additional “sophomore 12” putting me at a whopping 27 pounds over my ideal weight.

But, at 23, I lost it all. And when I did, my psoriasis symptoms disappeared… never to return.

So, while it might not be a certainty that by losing weight you can also lose your problems with psoriasis, it’s definitely a good place to start. It could help you lose what Dr. Mark Wiley calls the inflammation abomination.

To start your weight loss journey, stand on the scale each morning.  It’s been proven to help drop the pounds and keep them off. Of course, there are other tips to help you amplify your weight loss that have been shown to work in scientific studies as well.

Sources:

1. Higher weight increases risk of psoriasis — EurekAlert!

The post My psoriasis vanished when my extra weight did appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

People who feel better naturally look better.

But are there foods you should be consuming to directly improve the appearance of your skin?

The answer is… yes!

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Your skin needs nutrition to thrive

Your skin is actually the single largest organ in your body. In fact, the average adult has approximately 21 square feet of skin, which weighs 9 pounds and contains more than 11 miles of blood vessels.

And just like our heart, it needs the right nutrients to function and look its best.

According to dermatologists, the nutrients that are important for glowing skin include healthy fats and antioxidants, like these…

Essential free fatty acids — like omega-3s — are important in keeping the skin barrier intact because they’re used in the formation of skin cells.

Since your body can’t make omega-3s from scratch, it’s important we get them through your diet.

Related: 4 ways to boost collagen and love the skin you’re in

Omega-3s come in 3 forms – ALA, EPA, and DHA. ALA comes from plants (like chia, flax, and walnuts) while EPA and DHA come from fatty fish (like salmon and sardines).  Interestingly, EPA and DHA can be made from ALA — but not the other way around, making ALA the only truly essential fatty acid of the three.

Walnuts are not only a good source of omega-3s, but they are also loaded with copper, a mineral that boosts collagen production. Dermatologists suggest eating walnuts regularly to improve your complexion’s texture.

Lycopene is an antioxidant found in tomatoes and acts as a powerful protectant against sunburn.  In fact, a study has demonstrated that people who consumed tomatoes daily showed 33% more protection against sunburn than those that did not. Bring on the tomatoes — especially since they’re currently in peak season!

Cocoa hydrates skin, helping to make it fuller and more supple, and dark chocolate is also full of flavonols, which are potent antioxidants.

According to dermatologists, eating a couple of squares of 70% cacao chocolate (like that found in Step One Foods) is enough to improve skin luminosity.  By the way, the caffeine in chocolate, when applied topically, can help reduce puffiness.

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Speaking of topical applications…

Polyphenols, naturally found in green tea, fruit, and wine is a group of anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Applying polyphenols topically has been shown to help tone skin, treat acne and diminish the appearance of fine lines and scars. Green tea masks and serums are one way to gain the benefits of polyphenols immediately.

Vitamins A, C, and D are also essential to skin health. Vitamin A stimulates fibroblasts, which are the cells that are responsible for keeping skin firm and healthy. Tuna, various dairy products, and salmon are rich in Vitamin A. Vitamin C and Vitamin D promote collagen synthesis, protect your skin from UV damage and contribute to skin cell growth, repair, and metabolism. Vitamin C is found in fruits and vegetables (another reason to follow a whole food, plant-based diet!) but vitamin D is difficult to find in food.  Checking to see if you are deficient in this vitamin and supplementing as needed makes sense.

No question about it, a healthy diet promotes healthy skin. Which is why it’s important to make sure that your diet is balanced and includes plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins like vitamins A, C, and D.

Integrating these nutrients into your diet won’t only help your skin, but your overall health, too. If you find it too difficult to incorporate certain foods into your diet, remember: all Step One Foods are rich in omega-3 and antioxidants, and all contain walnuts. Two servings a day for a healthy heart AND skin.

Sources:

1. Skin Fun Facts — Forefront Dermatology
2. 10 Foods That Are Good for Your Skin — Shape Magazine

The post What to eat for better skin appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

In just the last few years, discoveries regarding telomeres and mitochondria have provided big clues into how to live longer healthier.

But in my group of friends, I get asked about another kind of anti-aging quite often. The kind everyone wants to know how to drastically slow…

The kind that shows on your face and skin.

If I had a dime for every time someone, who knows I’m a health researcher/writer, asked for my advice on how to keep the wrinkles away and the skin from sagging, I’d be a billionaire. So after at least a decade of time spent researching just about everything, let me share what I’ve found… and what I put to work myself.

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‘Anti-aging’ your skin

First, let’s talk about anti-aging products.

There are tons of them out there. And they can be quite pricey. But you should never assume the higher the price — the better the results… or even that you’ll ever get your money’s worth.

Companies selling anti-aging creams, lotions and serums will say just about anything to get you to buy them. And you should know that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration doesn’t require companies to prove their cosmetics do what they claim — or even that they are safe.

Most of them claim to essentially work miracles, but dermatologists and scientists will disagree.

Sure, it’s possible to temporarily make skin look as if it is healthy and glowing and plump with moisturizer. But deep down, they say not much else is happening. Topical products are just that. They might work on the surface, but they’re not making the layers of skin coming up any younger.

That’s why I’m here to explain why the most realistic way to decrease the look of aging on the outside, starts with what you put in the inside. And a lot of documented research agrees…

Foods that age you

Some foods lead to the creation of advanced glycation end products — also appropriately known as AGEs — in your body.

AGEs are non-enzymatic modifications of proteins or lipids after exposure to sugars. That’s some scientific jargon to explain how sugar (and oxidative stress in this case as well) damages your biological makeup… including your organs.

Most of that damage you can’t see, except when it becomes visible on your body’s biggest organ — your skin. The glycation process leads to a loss of protein function that impairs elasticity of not only your tendons and blood vessel tissue but also your skin.

And, because AGEs deactivate your body’s natural antioxidant enzymes, they leave you more vulnerable to another major cause of aging — sun damage.

Human and animal studies have removed any doubt that AGEs are harmful to the natural aging process. But what can you do to slow down their effect?

The first step is cutting down on sugar in your diet. The average American consumes way too much, so if you think that might be you, start cutting out the sweets. Cut down on the sugar you add to coffee or tea. And start reading labels. It’s insane how sugar is hidden in food these days.

Watch your consumption of meat and how you cook it. AGEs are naturally present in uncooked meat and certain cooking techniques form additional AGEs in those foods. Be wary of grilling, broiling, roasting, searing and frying. You can cut down somewhat on AGE formation by cooking with moist heat, shorter cooking times, lower temperatures and by using acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar.

But just like there are foods that promote AGEs you should eat less of, researchers have also concluded that AGE formation and accumulation in your skin tissues can be inhibited by foods you want to eat more of…

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Nutrients with the most anti-aging credibility

Research from the Journal of Exercise, Nutrition & Biochemistry indicates that foods that are polyphenols are capable of preventing the glycation process. Among polyphenols, you’ll find medicinal herbs, dietary plants, and phytocompounds.

The reason they work is due to their high antioxidant capacity. Among the best food sources of polyphenols are:

Spices: Cloves, star anise, capers, curry powder, ginger, cumin and cinnamon. Spices and herbs are very concentrated, so don’t use them sparingly. Apply these liberally, even in foods where you may not taste them, like smoothies.

Dried herbs: Peppermint, oregano, sage, rosemary, thyme, basil, lemon verbena, parsley and marjoram.

Drinks: Cocoa (but not the “swiss miss” packets — get real cocoa), green tea, black tea and red wine.

Dark berries: Black chokeberry, black elderberry, low bush blueberry, plum, cherry, blackcurrant, blackberry, strawberry, raspberry, prune, black grapes.

Seeds: Flaxseed and celery seeds.

Nuts: Chestnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, almonds and walnuts.

Olives: Black olives and green olives.

Vegetables: Globe artichokes, red chicory, green chicory, red onion, spinach, broccoli, curly endive.

Fruit other than berries: Apples, apple juice, pomegranate juice, peach, blood orange juice, lemon juice, apricot, quince. Now, a juice with added sugars would negate the anti-AGEs benefits of these foods.

Oils: Extra-virgin olive oil, rapeseed (canola) oil

What exercise does for an aging face

The same research has shown that exercise may be a powerful weapon against AGE formation and AGE-related aging.

For starters, exercise improves your antioxidant activity. Some antioxidants are taken into the body in foods, and some — like your master antioxidant, glutathione — is naturally produced by your body but declines with age.

Exercise can help you get them all working better for you. In fact, you can read what McMaster University found about exercise to get younger skin, here. If you can’t exercise for any reason, resveratrol, a terrific antioxidant on its own, helps your body upregulate glutathione.

Avoid extremes that age you

Sleep: Inadequate sleep not only makes it hard to function the next day, but if you sleep poorly regularly you could end up with a 45 percent increase in wrinkles, according to a study at the Sleep School of London. Sleep at least 8 hours a night for smoother skin.

Sun: Sun is enemy number one when it comes to accelerating the aging process. Spend short amounts of time in the sun to benefit from vitamin D, but it’s always a good idea to keep your face covered. I prefer a hat to toxic sunscreen lotions.

Inflammaging: This term refers to inflammation in the body and its impact on aging. Douse it with omega-3s, the fatty nutrient that can take years off your face. Not only can omega-3s eradicate inflammation, but they can also protect your skin from the effects of photo-aging that accumulates from a lifetime of sun exposure. Studies have shown that people who supplement with omega-3s experience less sun damage and have reduced signs of aging compared with those who don’t.

Sources:

The role of glycation in the pathogenesis of aging and its prevention through herbal products and physical exercise — Journal of Exercise Nutrition & Biochemistry

Advanced Glycation End Products in Foods and a Practical Guide to Their Reduction in the Diet — Journal of the American Dietetic Association

Top 100 polyphenols. What are they and why are they important? — Catherine Saxelby’s Foodwatch

The post Foods that lead to premature aging and the best that beat it appeared first on Easy Health Options®.

You know… the ones that feel like “chicken skin,” even when you’re not cold.

Well, these rough patches of skin with tiny bumps can develop in other places too, including your cheeks, thighs or buttocks. They feel a bit like sandpaper.

Fortunately, they’re not painful or itchy, just annoying and maybe a little embarrassing.

Those bumps amount to a common skin condition known as keratosis pilaris, resulting in hair follicle openings getting plugged with keratin.

Let’s examine what causes this common, benign skin condition and how to treat it…

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Keratosis pilaris causes

Although we know keratin overproduction and plugging are involved, dermatologists don’t really know why these hair follicles plug up.

One clue is that keratosis pilaris is often found in persons with dry skin, seasonal hay fever, rhinitis, asthma, eczema, or atopic dermatitis. That means this skin condition could result from immune hypersensitivity to something in a person’s environment.

Therefore, the underlying causes of keratosis pilaris can include:

• Subtle allergy to a food or chemical. This triggers inflammation to manifest in vulnerable skin areas
• Stressful emotions that release stress chemicals of inflammation (e.g., inflammatory cytokines)
• Dry skin from personal hygiene products
• A genetic predisposition
• Friction from tight clothes

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First step to relief

Some first steps can reduce the severity of keratosis pilaris:

• Limit bath/shower time and lower water temperature to reduce skin oil loss
• Use moisturizing soap or moisturizing ointment. Lanolin, petrolatum, glycerin, and combination products such as Eucerin and Cetaphil can moisturize if applied several times daily. Other products could include cocoa butter, shea butter, and coconut oil.
• Use a humidifier, although it may not be practical to highly humidify your home.
• Reduce friction or tight clothing in the affected area; this could be a cause

In most cases, simple moisturizing creams will have a minimal effect but are helpful to maintain a healed skin state. You’ll probably need to remove the dead cells (exfoliate) from the affected skin area. Exfoliation helps get rid of the small keratin plugs of keratosis pilaris.

Medicated creams that exfoliate skin contain urea, lactic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or salicylic acid. These are purchased over the counter or by prescription.

Prescription relief

Most effective prescription topicals are from a few different ingredient categories and include:

Vitamin A creams (topical retinoids) promote cell turnover and prevent plugging of hair follicles:

• Tretinoin (e.g., Retin-A) inhibits microcomedo formation and eliminates the lesions present. It makes keratinocytes in sebaceous follicles less adherent and easier to remove. Tretinoin topical is available as 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1% creams and 0.01%, 0.025%, 0.04%, and 0.1% gels.
• Tazarotene (e.g., Tazorac) is a synthetic retinoid drug with less skin irritation than Tretinoin. Its active metabolite stimulates differentiation and proliferation of epithelial skin with anti-inflammatory properties.

Adapalene (Differin): Adapalene acts on retinoid receptors. It treats acne by its effect on cellular differentiation, keratin formation, and inflammation. It normalizes the formation of follicular epithelial cells to comedone formation. Comedones are small acne bumps; blackheads are open comedones, while whiteheads are closed comedones (the follicle is completely blocked). Adapalene is often tolerated by those who cannot tolerate tretinoin creams. Expect a therapeutic response after 8-12 weeks of therapy.

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Alpha hydroxy acid is a normal constituent of tissues and blood. Alpha hydroxy acids such as Lac-Hydrin act as humectants (to moisturize) and break down keratin plugging when applied topically. Use the 12% cream or lotion.

Urea promotes hydration and removal of excess keratin of hyperkeratosis. It is available in 10-40% concentrations. Topically applied urea increases water retention in skin and decreases itching.

Corticosteroid creams range in potency more than 1,000-fold from hydrocortisone 1% (over-the-counter) to betamethasone 0.05% or clobetasol 0.05%. These have profound anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive properties. The way to make steroid cream/ointment super potent is to cover the area with a plastic (sandwich) wrap for an hour or more to drive the medicine much more fully into your skin.

Remember that high potency topical steroids should not be used longer than three weeks to prevent tolerance (it stops working) and tachyphylaxis (your symptoms rebound worse after you stop). Use the pulse-dose method to circumvent that problem: stop using it after 1-2 weeks to avoid rebound symptoms; allow for a steroid-free period of at least a week.

Once steroid cream has dramatically improved the irritated skin, urea and salicylic acid cream can be used to maintain it.

Topical immunomodulators such as tacrolimus (Elidel) or pimecrolimus (Protopic) are also effective in treating keratosis pilaris.

Procedures

If creams aren’t effective for keratosis pilaris, in-office procedures may help. These include:

• Dermabrasion or microdermabrasion
• Chemical peels
• IPL (intense pulsed light) or laser light therapy
• Blue light therapy (less effective)
• Surgical extraction of trapped hairs or keratin plugs

Source:

1. Choosing Topical Corticosteroids — American Family Physician

The post Keratosis pilaris: The bumpy skin on the back of your arms and how to make it go away appeared first on Easy Health Options®.