It has been known for several years that an extra copy of the SIR2 gene can promote longevity in yeast, worms and fruit flies. Many thought the gene could promote longevity. However, some molecular geneticists now suggest that SIR2 actually promotes aging.
Six Times the Normal Lifespan
A new experiment, rather than adding copies of SIR2 to yeast, deleted the gene altogether. The result was an extended lifespan -- as much as up to six times longer than normal -- when the SIR2 deletion was combined with caloric restriction or a mutation in one or two other genes.
Could be the Same in Humans
The behavior of human cells with reduced SIR2 activity also seem to confirm that SIR2 has a pro-aging effect. This could point to a new direction for human anti-aging research.
Extreme Survival Mode
It is theorized that the gene may block organisms from entering an extreme survival mode characterized by improved DNA repair and increased protection against cell damage. Organisms normally enter this mode in response to starvation.
This is what I call a clue. If you can manipulate a gene and increase the longevity of yeast, it is not a big leap to believe we can achieve similar results in humans. I am convinced, in the next few decades, researchers will have developed the tools to manipulate these genes in humans and will likely be able to increase our lifespan by 50 percent.
That said, gene manipulation will never be a substitute for following the Total Health Program, but it will be a powerful synergistic tool to maximize your potential for a long healthy life.
In general, there appear to be two potent influences on your aging rate. One is the amount of food you eat, which is why caloric restriction was a factor in the yeast experiment. The other is your insulin level.
A low-grain, no-sugar eating plan is one of the most effective ways to lower your insulin level. This is especially effective if you combine this with an aerobic type cardiovascular exercise program in which you increases your heart rate to about 75 percent of its maximum and maintains it there for 45 minutes, five times a week.
A good night's sleep and properly addressing emotional stresses are additional keys to regaining your optimum physical appearance and health. One of the best ways to address emotional challenges, which can also lead to insomnia, is with psychological acupressure techniques like EFT.
There are some key foods that are just about impossible to ignore if you want to live a long life. One of them is omega-3 fats, as they are essential to preserve your brain function and reduce your risk of cancer and heart disease.
Since most fish are heavily contaminated with mercury and PCBs, you will want to find a clean source of these amazing fats. So find a high-quality cod liver oil in the winter and make sure you are taking one to three teaspoons of the liquid a day. You could take the capsules but would need to take five to 15 per day, and I find most people prefer the convenience and cost saving of the liquid.
And if you are truly interested in slowing down the aging process, then I highly recommend you get the "Secrets of Anti-Aging" telephone clinic. Co-hosted by me, and primarily led by Dr. Rosedale, the "Secrets of Anti-Aging" tele clinic will teach you ALL of the following:
Dr. Rosedale is extremely gifted in interpreting the complex basic science research into practical steps you can take to increase your longevity, and improve the way you feel - even if you suffer from a degenerative disease!
So as you can see, there is not just one thing to do to feel and look your best as you age. Rather, it is a combination of things that, when adhered to as a lifestyle choice, will ensure that your body shows what has been going into it for all those years.
And if you've been treating your body with care and respect, it will be reflected in your healthy skin, bright smile and strong energy. After all, it's only natural.