I remember being so obese and chronically fatigued that I didn't have the energy to go to the movies. I couldn't sit upright long enough to watch the whole show. This is because my belly was so big that it cut off my breathing in a seated position. I never in my life felt older than I did in my mid 20's, which was 2 decades ago. Today, I feel like I am in my 20's, but in a healthy body, something referred to as biological age. Rapid aging, can impact our productivity, mood, sexual performance, and overall well-being. Up until recently, we didn't understand much about why rapid or reverse aging occurred.
However, there is a fascinating field of research that offers hope for rejuvenating our energy levels: telomeres. Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn, a renowned scientist and Nobel laureate, has made groundbreaking discoveries about telomeres and their impact on aging and energy levels. I highly recommend her book: The Telomere Effect.
In this blog, we will delve into the world of telomeres and explore how you can tap into their potential to unlock boundless energy.
What are Telomeres?: Telomeres are the protective caps found at the ends of our chromosomes. Think of them as the plastic tips on shoelaces that prevent them from fraying. Telomeres consist of repetitive DNA sequences and specialized proteins that safeguard the integrity of our genetic material during cell division. Each time our cells divide, our telomeres gradually shorten. Eventually, when they become critically short, cells can no longer divide, leading to cellular aging and, subsequently, the aging of our bodies.
Elizabeth Blackburn's Discoveries: Dr. Elizabeth Blackburn and her research team discovered an enzyme called telomerase, which has the remarkable ability to replenish and lengthen telomeres. Their groundbreaking work won them the Nobel Prize in 2009. The discovery of telomerase offers tremendous potential for combating age-related diseases and enhancing overall well-being, including our energy levels.
Enhancing Energy Levels through Telomeres: While telomerase holds promise for extending telomeres and potentially slowing down the aging process, it is important to note that the research is still in its early stages. However, there are several lifestyle factors that Dr. Blackburn's research suggests can positively influence telomere health and consequently boost our energy levels:
Exercise Regularly: Engaging in physical activity has been linked to various health benefits, including telomere maintenance. Studies have shown that individuals who engage in regular exercise tend to have longer telomeres. Aim for a combination of cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and activities that promote flexibility to maximize the benefits. If you think of epigenetics and what that means, essentially, genetic expression through environmental stimulus, exercising regularly tells the body to express it's athletic and mobility potential. YOUTH.
Manage Stress: Chronic stress can accelerate telomere shortening, leading to premature aging. Implement stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies you enjoy. Find healthy outlets for stress and prioritize self-care to preserve telomere health and sustain your energy levels. If you need personalized guidance and resources, we have 2 spots open, if you book today, you can secure your's on the link below.
Prioritize Quality Sleep: Adequate sleep is vital for overall health and vitality. Research suggests that poor sleep quality and insufficient sleep duration can accelerate telomere attrition. Establish a regular sleep routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and aim for 7-9 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night to optimize telomere maintenance and support sustained energy. Develop good sleep hygiene, including a nightly routine.
Nourish Your Body with a Real Organic Whole Foods: A nutritious diet rich in organic whole foods, fruits, vegetables, pasture raised proteins, and healthy fats can provide the essential nutrients required for cellular health. Antioxidant-rich foods, such as berries, leafy greens, and nuts, have been associated with longer telomeres. Avoid excessive sugar, processed foods, and unhealthy fats, as they may contribute to inflammation and telomere shortening. Going organic is more important than you realize. The toxins that you are exposed to with FDA allowed poisons like Roundup, rodenticides, fungicides and hybridization destroy nutrients and disrupt organ and glandular health.
Establish Real Connections: Research suggests that strong social connections and a sense of belonging can positively impact telomere length. Foster meaningful relationships, spend time with loved ones, and engage in social activities that bring you joy. Building and maintaining a robust social support network can contribute to improved well-being and energy levels. The most important relationship you can cultivate is the one with yourself. If you are not in a place of self love and acceptance, then your attempts at connecting with others will be a supplementation from others to replace what you haven't given to yourself. Check out our blog on Self Love to get more insight on this topic.
Conclusion: Elizabeth Blackburn's groundbreaking research on telomeres has shed light on the truth about aging, and cellular breakdown. It just proves what us hippies have been saying this whole time. Eat real food, managing thoughts and emotions, get sleep and introspection, move in a healthy manner and there isn't many problems that can arise.
Science is slowly but surely catching up to the truth.
If you want a personalized plan to keep your telomeres happy, book a call before our last 2 spots fill up!
Peace, Much Love, Live Well!
Coach Jerry
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