The Stress Hormone
Cortisol (Cortisol Hormone), the stress hormone, or colloquially called the “house-burning hormone,” because cortisol is the reason people can do extraordinary things during emergencies. For example, during a fire, a person can lift a safe weighing 60-70 kilograms because when danger strikes, cortisol raises blood sugar levels, giving the strength to do various things. In daily life, when we are stressed, drink alcohol, or stay up late, cortisol from the adrenal glands increases, raising blood sugar, which allows the brain to think about stressful matters. However, cortisol also causes aging, wrinkles, and internal organ deterioration if present in excess. Hence, there is a saying that “If you don’t want to age, meditate, chant, and exercise” to reduce cortisol.
Vitamin C also helps slow aging both externally and internally
Vitamin C stimulates collagen production. For example, some men who eat a lot of vegetables and fruits may have soft, smooth skin like women or children. Vitamin C can be considered a factor that easily makes the face look younger. People who eat plenty of vegetables and fruits, consume moderate amounts of meat, or are vegetarians usually have fewer wrinkles. Conversely, those who consume excessive sugar and meat tend to have premature wrinkles. Vitamin C thus affects aging. The above-mentioned skin conditions are only visible externally, but there are internal organs we cannot see. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant that helps slow organ deterioration, supports normal organ function, and extends their lifespan.
Understanding Telomeres… Measuring the Body’s True Age
Telomere testing involves drawing blood to examine chromosomes. Blood consists of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Telomere testing uses white blood cells as representatives of DNA. Telomeres are the ends of DNA strands. If the telomeres are long, it indicates longevity. If they are short, it suggests a shorter lifespan. The test results provide a clear age comparison chart showing the expected telomere length at different ages. For example, if a 35-year-old’s telomere length corresponds to that of a 45-year-old, it means they are biologically 10 years older and need further care.
If telomere testing shows abnormalities, doctors will conduct a detailed history to assess lifestyle and family history, as hidden cancers can cause shortened telomeres. Once the cause is identified through further testing, such as hormonal imbalances, hormone therapy or supplements may be prescribed to correct it. After treatment, some patients’ telomere length can improve, for example, from the equivalent of a 45-year-old to a 42-year-old.
