Among the elderly, degenerative eye disease often appears, which is manifested by the cloudiness of the eye lens. Even blindness may result. The topic is a cataract whose incidence increases with age. Persons over the age of 70 are burdened with a 60-percent risk of developing cataracts. Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical operations. Are there other treatments for cataracts? How to prevent cataracts? Read more
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are molecules that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals—unstable atoms that can cause oxidative stress, leading to cell damage and contributing to aging and various diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Free radicals are generated naturally during metabolic processes, but their levels can increase due to factors like pollution, smoking, radiation, and poor diet. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating electrons, stabilizing them and preventing damage to cells, proteins, and DNA. They are naturally found in many foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, and include a variety of compounds such as vitamins, minerals, and plant-derived polyphenols.
Common types of antioxidants are following substances. Vitamin C – a powerful water-soluble antioxidant found in citrus fruits, berries, and green vegetables. It supports the immune system and aids in collagen production. Vitamin E – a fat-soluble antioxidant found in nuts, seeds, and leafy greens. It protects cell membranes from oxidative damage.
Beta-carotene – a precursor to vitamin A, found in colorful fruits and vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Selenium – a mineral with antioxidant properties, found in foods such as Brazil nuts, fish, and whole grains. Flavonoids – plant compounds found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and beverages like tea and red wine, known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are also available in supplement form, providing concentrated doses of these beneficial compounds.
Popular supplements include: vitamin C and E supplements for boosting overall antioxidant defense; coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – a compound naturally produced by the body that plays a key role in energy production and has antioxidant properties; curcumin – the active compound in turmeric, known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects; resveratrol – a compound found in grapes and berries, often taken as a supplement for its potential to protect against aging and inflammation. While antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining health, it’s important to balance them with a varied diet rich in natural food sources to ensure optimal benefits.
Loss of memory as a side effect
Incorrect functioning of the neuron network, which is used to memorize information, may be a side effect of some drugs. Do you know what can be the consequences of taking statins whose job is to lower the level of cholesterol in your blood? And what is the side effect of using barbiturates and benzodiazepines as sleeping pills? Read more
Degeneration of the macula
Macular degeneration (AMD) is a disease that often occurs in the elderly. It is believed that long-term exposure to sunlight may increase the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration. The reason for this situation is the oxidation process under the influence of UV radiation. How to reduce the risk of macular degeneration? Read more
Turmeric, spice or medicine?
In the western world turmeric is known mainly as an oriental spice, but in some regions it is considered a natural source of health. For several thousand years turmeric has been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurveda. Are the turmeric’s health properties confirmed by scientific research? How to use turmeric to achieve eternal health? What is the difference between turmeric extract and the powdered spice available in the grocery store? Read more
Dietary supplements with rejuvenating properties
Look around. Do you see people who feel better and better with the passage of time? Or maybe you know someone who, despite an advanced age, is fully healthy? Unfortunately, we are used to the fact that with age, our body is functioning worse and worse. Are aging and disease inevitable? Read more
How to counteract skin sun damage?
Everyone knows about the beneficial properties of sunlight. The sun improves the work of the immune system, acts as an antidepressant, improves metabolism and participates in the production of vitamin D3, important in the fight against rickets and osteoporosis. Despite all these advantages, the time of exposure to the sun needs to be controlled because UV radiation is destructive to the skin. Read more