The Two Ways We Age

The Anti-aging business brings in billions of dollars per year, but if you ask the average person what causes aging, most couldn't tell you, other than time, the sun, and smoking.

There are two basic causes of aging:

1) Caramelization / Glycation
2) Oxidative Stress

Caramelization, quite simply, is what occurs when you bake something like lasagna or a cake in the oven.  Sugars respond to heat by creating a crust or gunky layer on top.  Delicious!  This makes for a tasty meal, but when caramelization happens inside of us, it creates unstable reactions, inflammation and gummy damage, eventually breaking down the body from the inside.

Oxidative stress could be defined as the total burden placed on a living being caused by the constant production of free radicals from metabolism and by the environment, natural and artificial radiation, and toxins in food, water, and from tobacco smoke. 

It's a myth that we are meant to be miserable as we age.  Human beings are meant to live a good, long, and meaningful life.  If anything, I believe the wisdom and experiences acquired throughout life could make aging a rich and joyous process. 

What is the best way to age well? Having something to live for. 

Up Next? Some tips on aging well.