Every time our body makes a new cell, we have to make a new
copy of our DNA for that cell. With each copy made, we lose some of the nucleotides at the end. Though
this slow damage to our chromosomes is part of our body’s natural aging
process, it is counteracted by telomerase, which is an enzyme that works hard
to add a nice little protective cap (a telomere) to the ends of our chromosomes.
Research has discovered, however, that there are other
factors that can speed up or slow down this chromosome damage. For
example, stress is one factor that speeds up the wear and tear. Mindfulness
and meditation, on the other hand have been found to protect our telomeres and
chromosomes. A recent randomized, controlled study found that mindfulnessmeditation leads to increased telomerase activity in blood cells. So cancel
your facelift appointment – mindfulness meditation may be a key to successful
aging!
Keryn Breiterman-Loader
No comments:
Post a Comment