Growing Young

Do you want to live forever? I do. That is if the quailty of my life is excellent. I don't want to live in unbearable pain or in some prolonged vegetative state, but a quality life without end - sign me up! Actually, I'm already signed up as I hope you are. My faith in Jesus Christ ensures that I will spend eternity in Heaven. But what about extending our lives on earth? Most people are in no hurry to die, myself included.

As I research myriads of books and articles about anti-aging for my “Growing Young” book (working title), I ran across a very interesting book called The Immortality Edge by Fossel, Blackburn and Woynarowski – medical doctors and researchers in the science of extending life. The central theme of their book is stated in their tag line: Realize the Secrets of Your Telomeres for a Longer, Healthier Life. Until recently, I didn’t even know I had telomeres. Well, I do. And so do you.

Telomeres are defined as the segment of DNA that occurs at the ends of chromosomes. They are the non-genetic material that determines the life span of a cell. They’ve been described as long strands of “junk” DNA. Instead of losing vital DNA during replication, segments of the telomeres break off and grow shorter and shorter.  At the point that the telomere reaches its critical limit, the cell either stops reproducing or dies.

Today, the age of a cell can be measured by the length of its telomere. Infants have very long telomeres, but not near as long as those of embryos. Of course adults, have even shorter telomeres. Telomeres don’t actually measure chronological age, but rather biological age – supporting the “you’re as young as you feel” cliché.  I know this may be “TMI” (too much info) for some of you.  But hang in there with me as it is fascinating and worth pondering the possibilities.

The authors say that telomere biology is “an extension of all other theories on aging – including wear and tear, antioxidant deficiency, genetic and hormonal deterioration, and mitochondrial aging and dysfunction – since ultimately they all point to the telomere”. One proof that telomeres are at the center of much of the longevity and anti-aging science is the fact that telomere researchers won the Nobel Prize in medicine in 2009. Even more fascinating discoveries have been made since then that are causing many scientists to believe we can not only stop aging, but reverse it. Wow.

This is exciting information for someone who turns sixty in 150 days. It’s even more exciting for my father who turns 84 in two weeks and will ski until his last dying day if he can. So, I flipped through this interesting book to look beyond the pure science and theory to find out what I could do today about those little tail-like telomeres that were shrinking daily as my cells replicate into an imperfect replica of my younger self.

The book includes a test to help me determine my “Telomere Age”. You start by giving yourself ten thousand points and then begin adding or subtracting points based on lifestyle questions such as:

How old are you? (Subtract 250 points for every decade over 20) – Bummer, I was down 750 points already!

• Do you smoke?  (Subtract 250 points if yes)
• Do you drink more than two drinks of alcohol a day?
• How much do you sleep?
• Do you take fish oil?
• Do you have high blood pressure?

And so on. Obviously, I don’t have permission to duplicate the test – you’ll have to buy the book if you want to take it.  There were seventy questions in all. At the end, a 5000 to 6000 score meant you were between age 60 and 70. I scored 8,500 and rated at less than 35 years old. So, I took it again and scored myself very carefully and still was over 8000. What was so encouraging was that many of the lifestyle habits I’ve developed over the last fifteen years are factors that support my telomeres.

So, as I close today’s blog – I’ll share my top ten lifestyle factors that helped me score so high – because they are things that you can also do to keep your little DNA tails nice and long.  

1. Sleep seven to nine hours most nights. Melatonin helps me greatly – I really like the time release type.
2. Fish oil EVERY DAY. I take a double dose morning and night and I can see and feel the difference.
3. Exercise 6 to 7 days a week. I usually get 45 to 60 minutes of aerobic exercise and 15 to 20 of conditioning.
4. Be anxious for nothing! Learn to deal with stress and trust God. Tomorrow has enough worries of its own.
5. Love life. Rejoice in the Lord!
6. Take supplements to fill in your nutritional gaps.
7. Eat 30+ grams of fiber every day.
8. Use olive oil instead of other vegetable oils.
9. Drink green tea (or supplements).
10. Never overeat.

Next blog:

Immortality on this earth – not meant to be!

This past week, Betty White - America's Sweetheart - turned 90 years young. For her - 90 is the new 60! As I watched her televised birthday bash with dozens of clips from all her shows of years past, I was struck with how her sense of humor and joy for life was a consistent thread throughout the years. I don't know if Betty has faith - or what she believes follows this life. I truly hope she knows Jesus as I'd love to get to know her in Heaven one day. Maybe I should write her and see if she's secured her eternal reservation!

What really struck me is that there are far too many Christians that don't seem to live with the kind of joy and zest for life that Betty has. What's wrong with that picture? I believe this is due in part to the fact that we fail to focus on the truth that truly sets us free and gives us unquenchable hope and joy despite our circumstances. I've been re-reading a spectacular book by Bob George called: CLASSIC CHRISTIANITY. It is one worth reading every couple years. In fact, we are using it as one of four anchor books for our leadership mentoring groups at my church. It is a profound reminder that Jesus not only died to offer us forgiveness of our sins and a place in Heaven after this life, but He also ROSE from the dead to give us new life NOW! If we are not exuding the kind of joy we see oozing from the likes of Betty White - there is something wrong!

As I continue my countdown to 60 (155 days), I'm praying that God will help me to celebrate the gift of each and every day He chooses to give me on this earth to reflect the joy and hope that is within me - found only in Jesus Christ!

Now, go out and share a smile, find the humor in things and celebrate today with someone who needs hope!

I am blessed. Blessed to be alive. Blessed to have an amazing husband and children. Blessed to be approaching my sixtieth birthday. Yes, BLESSED. I used to say, "Think about the alternative" - which of course would mean death. But, these days, I finally realize that the other side of death is just another...you got it...BLESSING.

As a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, the only big concern I have about death these days is HOW I get through the door. That big unknown has got to trouble most of you, yes? Both my grandmothers died in their mid-sixties. At the time, I thought they'd lived a nice, long life. Today, I realize how young they really were. But, much more sadly I also know that it is highly unlikely that either trusted in Jesus Christ for salvation. In my opinion, that is the one thing in life worth worrying about - that someone you know or love - or even those you DON'T KNOW - would die without knowing Christ.

That's what's on my mind more often than in years past. How many people can I touch with the Good News. And remember good news implies there is BAD news - which there is! An eternity separated from God and all the people you love would be hell...and it is.

So, no matter your age - your next big birthday looming on the horizon - Go share the Good News - Jesus Christ not only died for our sins so we could be forgiven and reconcilled with God. He ROSE again so we can have new life both NOW and for eternity. That's the greatest hope ever and why no matter what happens to me, I can say:

I AM BLESSED!

At sixteen, my very first job was as a nurse's aid in a nursing home. It was a real and raw introduction to aging in all its deterioraton, loss and sorrow. At the time, my grandparents were in their early sixties and that was my vast experience with "old people". I had no idea that aging had such a sad, sometimes pathetic alter ego. I remember lining up all the oldsters who were not capable of feeding themselves during mealtime and serving three or four of them spoonful by spoonful.

Sometimes I would stare into the vacant eyes of a woman who suffered dementia and wonder what her life had been like when she was young. Then, as I cut small pieces of toast and spooned another bite of pureed peaches into another shriveled mouth, I would create a screen play in my mind about their experiences. I imagined amazing hopes, dreams, passions and loves - before their lives were reduced to a "feeding line".

It became my regular practice to say to myself: "Old Mrs. Jones was my age once. She had a youthful body and strong mind. She had dreams. She had a life!" I came to realize that most people still have a "younger soul" existing within them  that longs for the same things younger people long after: Peace. Hope. Love.

I only wish that I had known a powerful truth earlier - a truth that would give peace and hope to the old and hopeless. That truth: If we know Jesus as our personal savior, it doesn't matter how much our mind or body decays. Our eternity - the bulk of our existence is wrapped in an amazing promise of a new and glorified body one day:

 2 Corinthians 5:  ¹ For we know that if the earthly tent which is our house is torn down, we have a building from God, a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. ² For indeed in this house we groan, longing to be clothed with our dwelling from heaven, ³ inasmuch as we, having put it on, will not be found naked. ⁴ For indeed while we are in this tent, we groan, being burdened, because we do not want to be unclothed but to be clothed, so that what is mortal will be swallowed up by life. ⁵ Now He who prepared us for this very purpose is God, who gave to us the Spirit as a pledge.

 

 

Whoosh. Time flies when you're having fun! I blinked my eyes and I was no longer a "middle aged" woman - I'm guessing in light of the latest life expectancy statistics that is about 42. It's hard to consider myself "old" when I feel young. But, if I'm still middle aged, then I'm going to live to 120 - Yipee!!!

How do you feel about growing older? I feel GREAT about it. There are definitely a few downsides. My hands expose my age. I've inherited my mom's arthritis and received the extra bonus of chronic tendonitis as well. They remind me that I'm not really 45. But, most of the benefits of aging far outweigh the losses.

When I went through menopause at 50, I gained the traditional "menopause muffin middle" and thought that despite my ability to maintain a healthy weight, I was resigned finishing life without a waist. Two years ago, I disproved that myth and lost about15 pounds and regained my 30-something figure. How? I put my Caltrac Activity Monitor back on and actually counted calories - which ALWAYS works. I also used my treadmill at about a 12% grade almost daily for 40 to 60 minutes. Three natural products also helped me greatly with my appetite and metabolism: SLIMALUMA, CELLUTHIN AND LYMPHTHIN (info on my webstore).

So, I figured it was time to disprove other myths about aging of body and mind and started writing my new book titled: GROWING YOUNG. I'd love to hear about your challenges - physical - mental - emotional -spiritual - and how YOU are celebrating this BEST SEASON OF LIFE in ways other women can embrace!

In the next few months, I'm going to post a few thoughts most days. And, I invite you to comment. Let's start a dialogue about this very temporal life journey and discuss how we can finish strong to God's glory!

There's a question I've been asking women for years: If time and money were no issue, what would you do differently with your life? It's a question that encourages daydreaming, but it can also be a negative motivator to focus on what you don't have rather than be thankful for what you DO have in all life's dimensions. If you can keep yourself from falling into discontent, the answer to that question may give you a hint of hopes, passions or gifts you've never pursued. At the end of your life, will you regret not pursuing them? And, an even more important question: Are any of these hopes, passions, giftings from God? Does HE want you to pursue them, but you are not for fear of failure or some other reason.

As I near my 60th birthday, I'm asking God to prompt, nudge, perhaps even give me a big ole PUSH toward the hopes, passions or use of gifts that HE wants me to pursue. He put me on this earth for a tiny bit of time to leave a deposit. I'm more and more aware that that time is running down. So, I'm trying to live like time and money are not an issue and pray for a few Godly nudges. I'll let you know when they come! Have YOU been nudged by God lately?

HOLY HOTTIES NEED STRONG BONES

The cliché says, "If you don’t use it…you’ll lose it.” This little saying becomes more and more relevant as we age. If we don’t use our muscles, they go flabby and as our muscle mass decreases, so does our metabolism. It’s also true for our bones. No, they don’t go flabby…but they do get weaker. According to naturopathic doctor, Mark Stengler, “Bone is a living tissue and ever-changing. Peak bone mass is achieved by about age 30, after that bones begin to weaken.” He states that one in every two women over 50 will experience an osteoporosis related fracture in their lifetime.

Our gender and genetics related to bone loss are out of our control, but Dr. Stengler states that many other factors are in our control and it is never too early to begin taking action against osteoporosis. Here are a few of the things he recommends you consider to address this risk:

• Maintain a bone healthy diet by eating foods rich in calcium, magnesium, Vitamin D, boron and silicon. Dr. Stengler’s Bone Plus product is an excellent supplement which I have featured below. Additionally, junk foods such as sodas and too much caffeine can promote bone loss.
• Cigarette smoking is linked to bone loss. Just one more reason to quit!
• Excessive consumption of alcohol increases bone loss and fractures.
• Inactivity weakens bones and weight bearing activity promotes bone growth…so get moving!
• Abnormal or low levels of hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol and thyroid can increase osteoporosis risk. If you are pre or post menopausal and have not had a recent hormone level analysis – now’s the time to take action.

Sadly, too many women are taking action too late and then resort to pharmaceutical remedies to reverse their bone loss. However, the FDA recently issued a public alert that “bisphosphonate drugs” (such as Fosamax, Actonel, Boniva, Atelevia and Reclast and their generic counterparts) for osteoporosis carry an increased risk of femoral (thigh bone) fractures. According to Dr. Stengler, “This is not the first time that this risk has been raised. A 2008 study by physicians at the Weill Medical College of Cornell University found that Fosamax may increase the risk of fractures of the thigh bone (femur). The researchers reviewed 70 people admitted to their trauma center with femur fractures and identified a particular type of break specific to patients who had been taking Fosamax for more than four years.”  

He recommends that his patients avoid this class of drugs and instead, follow a pH balanced diet, get weight bearing exercise, balance their hormones, and make sure they are getting an array of nutrients required for bone health such as calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, vitamin K and boron.

Dr. Stengler’s specially formulated product, Bone Plus is an excellent choice which I personally take to address this important issue. Use the special code: BONES to receive a 10% discount on your first order. 

Let's become great role models for our sisters and daughters and begin "Growing Young" from the inside out by building new bones for a healthier, stronger future! 

 

Lost My Menopause Middle…and Found Some Great New Jeans at Target!

 

As I’ve shared on my weekly Caltrac Club Conference Calls, I recently trimmed down from my healthy size eight, back to my pre-menopausal ideal size six. I proved my own theory, that menopause does not mean we must become “waistless”. By diligently using my Caltrac Activity Monitor for a few months and taking Slimaluma occasionally to naturally diminish my appetite on days when I desired more food than I needed…I found myself experiencing a GREAT problem: My old jeans were literally falling off.

While it is fun to buy new, smaller jeans – it can get expensive. So, I went on a search for comfortable, stylish jeans that did not break my budget. And I found them…at TARGET. No designer jeans for me – Target has some of the best casual clothes I’ve seen in a long time – at great prices. My favorite jeans are a combination of leggings and jeans that Target calls “Jeggings”. They look great – very stylish and current – but they are also incredibly comfortable. My 34 year-old daughter saw mine and ran out to buy some for  herself.

If I can lose my “menopause middle”, so can you! By paying attention to my calories and increasing my aerobic workouts to 60 minutes 5-6 times a week, I’m also discovering greater energy. Why not save $5 to $10 each week as you say no to high cost and high calorie lunches at restaurants and become more mindful of your calories? Soon, you’ll soon be buying smaller jeans at Target, too!  Wow - Target sure received some great free advertising!

Mark 6:31

 

 

Rest a while? What a concept. If you’re anything like me, you don’t rest until your body demands it. In years past, I actually questioned God’s thinking when He designed a 24 hour day and created our bodies so that they need to rest about one third of each day. If you live to the current average lifespan of 78 years, you will have slept twenty-six years of your life away! What a waste, right?

 

If I had been consulted, I would have created a 48 hour day and a body that only needed six hours sleep in that time. Just imagine all that you could accomplish, not to mention the fact that you’d only have to make your bed, do your makeup and any number of other daily tasks, half as much as you do now. Cool. So I thought.

 

Well, my days of striving to be a superwoman are long over. Truth is…I totally burned out. The value of time efficiency and accomplishment began to pale and I finally began to understand why God created us as He did – needing regular, long sessions of rest, renewal and regeneration. I realized that our fragile human bodies are a constant reminder that we are weak, dependent beings. As we age and see the telltale signs of time showing up in various ways, we cannot deny this reality. If we always felt like we did at 21 years old, able to get by on almost no sleep, high energy and looking great – we’d be deluded into thinking we were invincible. God has created us with a daily reminder that we are delicate organisms totally dependent upon Him for every breath we take. This side of Heaven, we must contend with the limits of our flesh. But, if we follow His prescription for healthy living – our bodies will serve us well until we get our new ones one day.

 

In recent years I’ve learned the value of rest – not only for the body – but also for the soul and spirit. I’ve stopped complaining…I’ve stopped rebelling…and I finally just embrace it. God clearly thought it was vitally important to teach us the significance of rest since he modeled it to us as He completed His creation.

By the seventh day God completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because in it He rested from all His work which God had created and made.  Genesis 2: 2, 3

The God of the universe did not need to take a break. His energy is endless and His power is unlimited. What He did was show us the importance of rest from our work. When we honor His principles of living, we are refreshed and renewed. When we don’t, we pay a price by living unhealthy, stressed out lives that not only diminish our joy – but also the people around us.

Jesus had a huge assignment to accomplish in his 33 short years on this Earth. Yet, he was never a frazzled mess, wringing his hands or scurrying about like a superhero. He took time to get away to rest and encouraged his disciples to do the same. If God could use Jesus’ limited time to save the entire world, I am confident that He will give you adequate time for you to complete “the good work He has begun in you”. Come away…for a little while…and rest.

 

WHAT’S AGE GOT TO DO WITH IT?

• Perspectives on Growing Young (a.k.a. aging)
• Fashion Do’s & Don’ts

 

What do women really think about aging?

Before I share a few fashion tips to help you look and feel youthful, I thought it would be interesting for you to get an idea of how other women view aging. A study called Aging Redefined: A Frank Perspective on Marketing to Women as They Age was conducted in 2004 by “Frank About Women”, a Winston-Salem, N.C. based strategic consultancy which is dedicated to helping companies build lasting relationships with women.

 

The study revealed that 55% of the women in the study say "aging well" means looking great, no matter what age they are. Younger women were much more likely to say they want to look 10 years younger. Among the women 35-39, 18 percent said looking a decade younger was their definition of aging well, compared to only 9 percent of women over sixty. One quarter of women in the survey say "old age" never begins. The older women get, the more likely they are to reject the notion of old age; 37 percent of women over 65 say there is no specific age they would classify as old, compared to only 15 percent of women aged 35-39.

 

 

Aging is not just a physical process. It is an attitude. We can’t turn back time, but we can choose how we interpret the journey thus far. If we waste our energy obsessing over every wrinkle, we will be miserable. But, if we focus on a few things that enhance our appearance and help us feel better, then we can age gracefully and feel good about ourselves in the process.

 

 

Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks on the heart. ~1 Samuel 16:7   

                           

 

As Christian women, we know that we are not defined by our appearance. Nevertheless, most of us care about how we look. We must remember that God created our physical bodies and even uses physical appearance for His own purposes at times. King Saul and Esther are both examples of this. The key is to maintain a healthy perspective and not place undue emphasis on our looks. In my experience, when I feel good about my appearance, I tend to forget about it and focus on more important matters. When I feel frumpy and disheveled, I tend to be more aware of how I look. But no matter if today is a “good hair day” or not, I remind myself that all my worth and true identity is in Christ alone. And that makes me feel beautiful. With THAT being said, here are few beauty tips that will help may help you express the “growing young” attitude of a woman who is truly AGELESS!

 

 

1. Don’t wear baggy or shapeless clothes. They make you look frumpy. Invest in a few quality pieces such as a great pair of jeans, slacks, a skirt and a dress in black, brown or navy. You can mix and match tops and jackets to create lots of different looks.
2. Don’t overdo with too much detail or “fussyness”. Classic simplicity with great accessories is ageless.
3. Black is always classy and slimming. You can look terrific just going to the grocery store by wearing a nice black top with a great fitting pair of jeans and some silver hoop earrings. Black turtlenecks are great in cool weather and create a nice smooth neck!
4.  Jeans and jean jackets are always youthful IF they are in style. As I’ve said before – throw out your “Mom Jeans” and invest in a stylish pair every couple years.
5. Don’t go sleeveless unless you have great arms. Cap sleeves and short sleeves are still cool, but keep our “flappers” under control!
6. Some experts say that our handbag is a dead giveaway to our age. Take a 30-something shopping with you and find a bag you love that doesn’t scream: “I’m a grandmother”! By the way: We are expecting a new grandbaby any day, so I’m not saying it’s bad to BE a grandmother – we just don’t want to LOOK like one!

 

 

More tips next time!

 

 

SLEEP…For Health…Anti-Aging…Stress Relief

 

 

1. Try your best to have a regular bedtime – whatever works for you.
2. Dim the lights an hour or so before going to bed.
3. Avoid caffeine or a heavy meal at least four hours before bedtime.
4. Do enjoy a light carbohydrate snack an hour or so before retiring as it increases your level of serotonin – which relaxes you.
5. Turn off the television and read a something relaxing.
6. The darker the room, the more melatonin you release for slumber.
7. A hot bath or shower promotes sleep as your body temperature cools afterwards.

 

Since our theme this week is rest, renew and regenerate…I thought I’d feature two quality supplements I use regularly and have recently added to my website store.

 

 

TIME RELEASE MELATONIN - $15.99

 

Promotes better sleep patterns. Time Release.
60 vegetable caps; 30 servings.

Melatonin releases from the pineal gland, reaching its peak at night to help maintain tissues in a youthful state of health. Secretion of melatonin declines significantly with age, as the pineal gland becomes calcified. It can be helpful for those experiencing interrupted sleep, travelers suffering from jet lag or people working on rotating or late shifts who experience sleep disturbances caused by changing melatonin levels. You can boost your melatonin production naturally by getting thicker blinds for the bedroom windows or wearing a night mask.

 

The time release formula created by naturopath, Dr. Mark Stengler releases to help you sleep through the night. If you need a little extra boost to get to sleep, you can the sublingual formula.

Directions: Take one to two capsules15 to 60 minutes before bedtime or as directed by your healthcare practitioner.

Caution: Consult your healthcare practitioner before use. Patients with leukemia, Hodgkins disease, or lymphoma should avoid melatonin until more is known about its effects on these forms of cancer. If you have an autoimmune disease do not use melatonin.

 

 

 

RESVERATROL COMPLEX

Trans-Resveratrol Plus Grapeseed Extract
Used for Anti-Aging, Energy and Weight Loss
60 vegetable caps; 30 servings.
$36.95

The resveratrol compound is classified in a family that’s known as polyphenols. In small amounts, resveratrol can be found naturally in the skins of red grapes, some green teas, and even peanuts. It is also the main ingredient that gives red wine natural anti-aging properties.

Numerous studies have shown that resveratrol can actually increase the life expectancy of certain cells in the body by as much as 70%. It has been proven to help soften wrinkles, aid in weight loss by supporting healthy metabolism, improve nutrient intake, help remove built up toxins from your body, and improve overall energy throughout the day.

Directions Adults, take two capsules a day or as directed by a health care practitioner

Supplement Facts:
250mg Trans-resveratrol
100mg Grapeseed Extract (fruit)
359mg Rosehip Seed Powder

Not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.

AGING
Age-related disorders are mainly caused by lifestyle factors such as diet, exposure to environmental toxins, lack of exercise, stress, along with genetic susceptibilities. If you're young or middle-aged, you can prevent many problems by changing your habits now. If you're older and are already experiencing health difficulties, it's not too late to bring balance and harmony to your system.

Most of the diseases we associate with aging - arthritis and other painful conditions, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, digestive problems, frailty, depression, sexual dysfunction, and fatigue - are not an inevitable part of growing older. These “age-related disorders” are mainly caused by lifestyle factors such as diet, exposure to environmental toxins, lack of exercise, stress, along with genetic susceptibilities. If you're young or middle-aged, you can prevent many problems by changing your habits now. If you're older and are already experiencing health difficulties, it's not too late to bring balance and harmony to your system.

 

Normal aging occurs when old cells start dying at a faster rate than new ones are generated. Since the body’s tissues have a smaller supply of cells to draw upon, they begin to degenerate and malfunction. This process happens to everyone; it’s simply a natural part of life. It appears our cells are pre-programmed to have a maximum lifespan. Yet the key is to prevent premature aging; where one ages faster than their genetic programming. In addition, most will agree that quality of life is paramount to lifespan.

 

What causes premature aging?

 

1. Free radicals

 

In recent years we have come to understand more about highly reactive kinds of atoms or molecules called free radicals. In many cases, free radicals assist the body by destroying invaders, producing energy, and helping to carry oxygen through the bloodstream. However, when they are present in overwhelming numbers, they attack healthy cells, sometimes destroying them or mutating their DNA. When cells die before their time or are damaged, the normal aging process is accelerated, and the body becomes vulnerable to life-threatening diseases such as cancer, arteriosclerosis, and many degenerative diseases.

 

It is becoming more and more difficult to keep the number of free radicals in the body down to a healthy level. Many of the aspects of modern living, including unwholesome diets and exposure to pollution, tobacco smoke, environmental contaminants, and even the sun, leave us exposed to far more free radicals than any generation before us. Luckily, nature has equipped us with the means to neutralize free radicals in our bodies. Substances called antioxidants accomplish the task, and they’re found in many fruits and vegetables and in some herbs. A combination of healthful eating combined with antioxidant supplements and wise living can prevent excessive damage from free radicals.

 

2. Diet and nutritional deficiencies

 

Another major cause of several age-related diseases is diet and nutritional deficiencies. Studies on laboratory mice and primates, as well as emerging human studies, have shown that a reduced-calorie diet significantly extends their lives. Additionally, diets that are high in fat and sugar lack many essential nutrients, fiber, as well as antioxidants. Poor diets also contribute to gastrointestinal disorders, which can inhibit the body's ability to absorb important vitamins and minerals. Sometimes, however, a good diet is not enough to keep deficiency at bay. As a result of normal or accelerated aging, older people are often simply less efficient at absorbing nutrients, even if they eat well. If you have reached old age, you will need to redouble your efforts to take in nutrients.

 

3. Lack of exercise

 

Aging is accelerated by a lack of exercise. If you’re not regularly exercising you’re increasing your risk for almost every kind of disorder, including heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, and osteoporosis.

 

4. Hormone imbalance, especially Cortisol and DHEA

 

Hormone balance is a key to healthy aging. This is particularly true of the stress hormones such as cortisol and DHEA. A deficiency or abnormal elevation of these hormones (particularly cortisol) accelerates aging and immune system breakdown. In reality, all of the hormones are important for healthy aging. Thyroid, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, as well as growth hormone levels must be at balanced levels to slow the aging process. Researchers are finding that growth hormone may play a special role in slowing down the “aging clock.”

 

5. Elevated blood sugar levels

 

It is also important to keep blood sugar levels in the normal range. Elevated levels of glucose lead to a process known as glycosylation. This contributes to a weak immune system and speeds up aging. An example of this process is diabetes.

 

6. Too much stress

 

Finally, the effects of stress appear to play a role in aging. People who perceive prolonged periods of intense stress are more likely to develop chronic disease. One major stressor is loneliness. This is becoming a big problem with the elderly who lack companionship and stimulation. Many cut back on social obligations, intellectual activities, and sports and exercise. Giving these essential activities up has been linked to a shorter life span and an increased risk of disease. It is up to all of us, whatever age, to create families and communities in whom the elderly are welcome, active members.

 

Root Causes

• Free radical damage
• Poor diet and nutritional deficiencies
• Excess calorie intake
• Genetics
• Environmental toxins
• Poor digestion and detoxification
• Lack of exercise
• Hormone imbalance
• Elevated blood sugar levels
• Stress and isolation

Dr. Stengler's Solutions

Dr. Stengler uses a variety of tests that give you an assessment of your aging:

• Oxidative stress analysis-urine or blood testing
• Toxic Metals (urine, stool, or blood)
• DNA damage-blood or urine
• Antioxidant testing (urine, blood)
• Blood profile for cardiovascular, immune, and blood sugar markers (glucose and insulin)
• Stool analysis
• Detoxification profile-urine
• Hormone analysis by saliva, urine, or blood (estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, cortisol, melatonin, IGF-1, thyroid panel)

Sidebar

A double blind clinical trial studied the effects of 1500 mg of Panax Ginseng with 49 elderly people. This herb was found to improve coordination and reaction time as well as increased alertness and energy. (Fulder S et al. A double blind clinical trial of Panax Ginseng in aged subjects. Presented at the Fourth International Ginseng Symposium, Daejon, Korea, September 18-20, 1984.)

Through cutting edge laboratory testing Dr Stengler finds the root causes of accelerated aging and treats them with natural therapies. This may include bio-identical hormones, adaptogenic herbal therapies, detoxification programs, calorie restriction, and targeted nutritional supplements.

• Hormone Hostage Husbands
• Weight Loss for Holy Hotties
• Hormone Hostage Hair

THOUGHTS ON MENOPAUSE 

From a Hormone Hostage Husband

By Lew Boore (Danna's HHH)

 

Ladies, perhaps you feel alone and misunderstood in this season of "pre" or "post" menopause. If you are in your early to mid-forties, you may even wonder, "What is happening to me, I'm too young to be having hot flashes!" And, most likely your husband is also a bit confused wondering, "Who IS this person sharing my bed?"  One minute you're too hot, the next too cold. What used to be great is now terrible and sometimes he's just not sure how to respond lest he get his head bitten off! Well today, Danna has given me (her husband, Lew) the honor of speaking to you from a man's perspective. If you find some of what I say resonates with your situation - please share it with your husband. Most are struggling to understand and negotiate your new "phase".

Throughout Danna's book, THE HEAT IS ON, she provides a reasoned God-centered approach for women to take in their journey through menopause.  I love that word...journey. It is more than just a trip. For me, living with Danna has always meant adventure. And, an adventure is always best when it is shared. Husbands must make a decision to take the journey with their wife and help her realize she's not alone. It took me a while to understand this. It took even more time for me to gather the courage to actually talk to Danna about it. After all, if I don't bring it up and we don't talk about it, won't it all just go away?  Nope. So, here's some practical advice to pass on to your HHH:

 

 

Hormone Healthy Hints from an HHH survivor

 

1.  Pray with your wife. 

If you have never done it, START.  It took me years to understand that true intimacy is not only the connection that you have sexually with your wife; it is the shared intimacy that you have with her through Christ.

2. Empathize with her.

Understand that she doesn't want to go through this anymore than you! But, she has no choice. It is time for us, as men of God to accept the meaning of the word sacrifice!  Believe it or not, she knows that she is being an irritation to you and the entire family, whether it shows externally or not.

 

3. Accept reality and change your expectations.

Accept the fact that "things" are going to be changing. The woman you married may break down occasionally. She cannot be the Proverbs 31 woman every day of her life. (I think that woman is actually a compilation of all the good qualities a woman can have rolled into one example.) Bottom line: Have realistic expectations.

4. Listen to her...hear her.

Ask her what connotes love to her now. It could be as simple as just listening (hint: that means ACTIVE listening...not just hearing her talk). Maybe she needs time alone. (Hey, this is a chance for you to get to know your children better!) Or, maybe she needs more help around the house. (Think of your helping hand as a good way to get a "cheap" workout, plus reacquaint yourself with the property you own or rent.)

What irritates or makes her less than comfortable?  Are your funny little nuances now irritating habits? Talk about sexual intimacy; even if it is not normal for you to do so.  Understand that the frequency may change and ACCEPT it!  Never use a "guilt trip" to manipulate your wife into having sex. Try to understand what's going on in her mind and body. Whether emotional or physical, she may need time to adjust to the huge changes occurring. 

5. Pray with your wife.

Yes, I know I already said this. This is what I call a "reinforcement" to emphasize an important point. Prayer is the most powerful tool you have to connect you both supernaturally to the only One who has any control over your life.

 

Do you remember when your Dad had "the talk" with you? Boy, I sure wish that dear old Dad would have clued me into this "menopause thing". Men, take heart. In time, your "real" wife will reimmerge.  It is up to you, with our Lord's strength, to come along side that wonderful woman you married. And, most likely you'll need to pick her up and carry her now and then. Show her the man that God intended YOU to be.

My friend, I pray for your strength on this rollercoaster trip. I pray you'll apply God's wisdom to your specific challenges. I pray for you to be courageous, when lesser men would "cut & run". I pray blessings on you, your family and your marriage.

Oh...and welcome to the HHH Club!

 

WEIGHT LOSS FOR HOLY HOTTIES

 

1.    Can women facing menopause and beyond actually lose weight?

2.    Is it possible to have a waist again?

3.    Are we destined to finish our years in stretch pants and moo moos?

 

Yes, Yes, No!

 

After years of battling with emotional eating and bulimia - I found total victory over my food issues and maintained a healthy size six to eight for over 30 years. But as menopause approached, I found myself giving in just a little to food cravings and exercising less because of fatigue associated with sleepless nights from endless hot flashes. While I never outgrew my size eight jeans, I did surrender to the inevitable reality of a slightly thicker waist and belief that it was perhaps time to give away my size six clothes. Isn't it ironic that many of us add an extra fat pad of insulation on our bodies just when we need it the least!

 

But as my sleep improved - thanks to some great natural products - such as the Femmenessence I spoke about in my Growing Young Blog #2 - I began to see light at the end of the tunnel and return to my more regular exercise routine. Fortunately, I stopped adding fat - but I seemed to be stuck one size larger. This summer as I turned 58, I decided it was time to get more serious and see if it was still possible to be as lean as I was in my forties. I don't want to be obsessed about being thin - been there done that. But I know (because I've taught it for years) that weight gain is an insidious process that happens one fat cell at a time and can creep up unexpectedly if you don't pay attention. I also know that there is only ONE proven way to increase longevity in both animals and humans - eat less calories! So with that in mind, I decided a reality check was in order.

 

Reality Check

I pulled out one of my favorite tools, my Caltrac activity monitor, and practiced what I've been preaching for years about doing a "reality check" on your energy equation (intake versus output). I learned for myself that I was pretty much eating and burning the same amount of calories. The good news was that I was not gaining weight - but the bad news was that I wasn't losing either.

 

I decide to wear my use my Caltrac religiously for a couple months and try to burn at least 200 calories a day more than I ate...and guess what? I have my old waist back!  I've lost about ten pounds by simply paying attention to the details and can wear my size six jeans again. I also reaffirmed that "Holy Hotties" can't use menopause as an excuse. While we may store fat a little more readily than we once did, we can still be reasonably lean. It may take a little longer, but we can do it.

 

Caltrac Club?

The problem is that most people won't take the time and energy to get a true reality check. Unfortunately, calorie estimation is simply "guesstimation". I'm a walking calorie counter and I still deceive myself if I don't either write my calories down or put them in my Caltrac. Now that I'm back to my old normal, I won't continue counting calories every day and wearing my Caltrac. But when I see or feel a little weight gain creeping on, I'll put the Caltrac back on and get back to my "reality checking" for a week or so. I've also learned to play some very useful games with myself and hope to start a little "Caltrac Club" with a few of you who want to test out my ideas personally. Email me if you are interested!

 

Be Gone Appetite

While on this journey to lose my menopause fat pad, I was asked by my friend and former radio co-host, naturopathic doctor, Mark Stengler to test a new product he is using with his weight loss clients. Now, you must know that I am VERY skeptical about products that deal with appetite. We certainly know the dangers of amphetamines, but also very popular products such as ephedra which was ultimately outlawed by the FDA because of the unhealthy side effects. Nevertheless, I have the highest regard for Dr. Stengler and trust his well-balanced and natural approach to health. He's a strong Christian and does not support doing anything that is simply a a quick fix.

 

Slimaluma

Mark explained that the "Slimaluma" product he wanted me to evaluate is an extract that he has patented from the Caralluma Fimbriata plant used in India for centuries to diminish appetite and hunger during times of famine. It is combined with green tree extract which helps support a healthy metabolism. His doctor approved clinical formula contains no harmful stimulants. So, in my usual skeptical way, I took a dose one day about an hour before lunch. I got busy with a project and...forgot to eat lunch. I ate a small snack about 4pm and then still had a somewhat diminished appetite at dinner. One day, I took the Slimaluma after two cups of coffee - rather than my usual cup of herbal tea - and felt a little "racy" for about an hour. I continued to test the product over the last six weeks, usually just taking one dose a day (two are recommend for weight loss) four or five times a week. I have found it consistently helpful - so much so that I've added it to my website store.

 

Whether you have 10 or 100 pounds of excess fat on your body, you lose them the same way - by burning more calories than you eat day after day. If you burn 100 calories per day more than you eat - you'll lose one pound a month. If you burn an extra 200 a day, then you'll lose two pounds a month. The slower you lose it, the more likely it will stay off. If you want to truly grow young and increase your longevity - start a reality check today!

 

HORMONE HOSTAGE HAIR! 

Raging hormones also affect your hair! According to senior stylist, Jamie Lee, hair becomes much dryer as women begin to experience the hormone fluctuations of "peri" and "post" menopause. Additionally, many women begin taking thyroid and hormone replacement in their forties and fifties which can result in the "frizzies" or other changes in texture. She recommends keeping the hair well conditioned with an occasional deep protein treatment. She also recommends a process called a "Brazilian Blowout" to calm down your menopausal mane.

 

It is also important to have an excellent color specialist deal with the challenges of covering gray hair and protecting from further damage. This is not the best time for women to do their own color. Color done correctly can create a better texture and increase shine and manageability.

 

From a "growing young" perspective, Jamie recommends that women go lighter rather than darker as they mature. Lighter hair or gentle highlights (even one shade) softens the face. If you live in the San Diego area and would like a free consultation with Jamie, she works in Solana Beach and can be reached at: 6192749137

 

P.S.   Jamie is my oldest daughter! God has a wonderful sense of humor. Both my daughters were a bit "challenging" as teens and young adults. Now, both in their 30's - they are a delight and my best friends. BUT...they caused so many premature gray hairs in my forties that God has blessed me by charging them with the lifelong task of keeping their mom "brown" for life! While staying youthful starts in the mind, most of us prefer to cover our gray so our hair color matches our attitude!