Manage your stress effectively.
No doubt, stress is an inevitable part of life. But chronic stress that lasts for long durations even without a clear triggering factor is a major contributor to aging. It is no new thing that chronic stress promotes chronic inflammation. Chronic inflammation, in turn, turns the worn out mitochondria into a storehouse of toxins. These toxins damage cells and accelerate aging. Thus, it is critically important that you learn ways to manage your everyday stress. Find what works the best for you. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga are just some of the options you could consider. Even taking the time out of your busy day to retrospect and daydream is considered by some as the same as meditation.
Stay active.
We’ve all heard it a million times: regular physical activity is good for your heart, brain, and overall health. But now, a new study suggests that exercising regularly could also stop or delay the aging process. According to a 2017 study published in Cell Metabolism, exercise increases mitochondrial activity and thus slows down aging. Interestingly, the researchers also noted that high-intensity biking effectively reversed age-related decline in mitochondrial function. Moreover, regular exercise helps to preserve the muscle mass which declines as we age. All things considered, exercise, irrespective of its type, is a must if you wish to live youthful for longer.
Meditate.
As a matter of fact, meditation is good for your mental health. A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that Transcendental Meditation (TM) technique can reverse age-associated shortening of telomeres by increasing the activity of an enzyme called telomerase. Telomerase is necessary for extending the telomeres. Moreover, TM can reduce the risk of various conditions that might develop due to aging. For example, high blood pressure, heart disease, and increased overall risk of death.
Reap the benefits of healthful supplements.
It is gradually emerging that the right dietary supplements can do wonders for your health. For instance, the dietary supplement known as Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) has been found to stimulate telomerase. In addition, this powerful natural antioxidant also has an essential role in mitochondrial function.