Aging and Stress Factor

Stress has been closely linked to the development of age related diseases and to the aging process as well. Stress response is basically a complicated adaptive reaction in the body. Without stress response the body would not survive particularly in emergency situations such as infection, injury or immediate danger.A key factor of stress is that it invokes a rapid mobilization of energy reserves, increases the level of stimulation and fuel to the; brain, muscles, heart and other organs that are vital for immediate survival. Basically stress is a biological overdrive mechanism. It is very important but at the same time can wear down the body. If stress response isn't strong enough in an emergency situation then the organism either suffers a greater level of damage or even dies. Excessive stress response is also not a good thing as it can be a damaging force in itself causing disease and a sped up aging process. Prolonged or excessive stress can raise levels of free radicals, speed up the breakdown of proteins, slow the immune system, and promote burnout in neurons and so on. The aging process is directly or directly driven by stress.

Many studies of animals have proved that there is an optimal level of stress response. This optimal point can actually be a key to longevity. As we grow older we slowly lose the ability to maintain an optimal stress response and we become less adaptable to negative stress related forces. The lowering of stress resistance can speed up aging. Therefore, stress management and optimization of stress response must be a part of any serious anti-aging strategy.