Cellular health is becoming an increasingly popular term. The reason for this is studies that continuously prove that cell health is one of the main factors for aging. As our cells age, cellular communication becomes sub-optimal, contributing to signs of aging such as lower energy, less mental clarity, lower libido, hair loss, weight gain, and more.

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But what causes our cells to age?

One of the main causes of cell aging is damage caused by free radicals. Below we explain what free radicals are, what they have to do with oxidative stress and how we can combat them:

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Free radicals

Free radicals are unstable molecules that lack an electron. The body produces free radicals during natural body processes such as cell reactions, the metabolism of food, and even when breathing. Free radicals are also caused by environmental toxins, poor diet, chronic stress, and other lifestyle factors, which will be discussed later in this article.

To complete their structure, free radicals attempt to steal electrons from other cells. If this is successful, this damaged cell becomes unstable and then tries to extract electrons from other cells, which leads to a chain reaction and an increase in free radicals. This disturbance of cell functions can worsen over time and cause serious damage. Ultimately, free radicals damage the body by attacking DNA, cell membranes, fats stored in blood vessels, and enzymes. This damage is known as oxidation or oxidative stress.

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Oxidative stress

As mentioned earlier, oxidative stress is the result of free radical damage. Excessive oxidative stress leads to inflammation and can thus lead to significant health problems and accelerate the aging process. If left untreated, such inflammation can become chronic and systemic and lead to a wide range of symptoms, including:

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weariness

joint pain

Brain fog (Brainfog)

Low libido

Decreased athletic performance

Headaches and migraines

gray hair

wrinkles

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Combating and preventing oxidative stress

Fortunately, there are ways to combat and even reverse the cell damage caused by oxidative stress. By improving cell health, the above symptoms can be alleviated and overall wellbeing can be increased.

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Here are some effective ways to combat free radical damage and oxidative stress:

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Antioxidant-rich diet

Antioxidants are our body's natural remedy against oxidative stress (hence the name). However, problems arise when the number of free radicals exceeds the number of antioxidants in the body. Foods that are rich in antioxidants can effectively combat oxidative stress and should be included in the diet:

berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, goji berries, acai berries, and more), spinach, kale, oranges, peppers, artichokes, red cabbage, pecans, dark chocolate, garlic, parsley

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It is just as important to avoid foods and substances that cause an inflammatory response, such as trans fats, refined sugar, processed foods, and alcohol.

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Limit exposure to toxins

Environmental toxins are all around us — in the food we eat, in the air we breathe, and in the products we use. Toxins are one of the main causes of oxidative stress as they can quickly affect the health of our cells. It would therefore be important to minimize plastic consumption, use environmentally friendly cosmetic and cleaning products, and buy an air filter for home and office.

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Practicing stress management

Stress can significantly impair cell functions and cause free radical damage. Exercise, enough sleep, breathing exercises, muscle relaxant exercises, healthy eating help reduce stress.

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Exercise regularly

Research shows that a lack of daily exercise is associated with increased levels of oxidative stress. Regular exercise (at least 30 minutes a day, four to five times a week) can improve cell health.

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Dietary supplement

Supplementing with high-quality ingredients such as resveratrol, glutathione and quercetin can support the production of antioxidants and combat oxidative stress.