Effects of Aging on Your Body

Aging is the slow process of becoming old. The term aging actually refers specifically to individual beings, fungi, perennial plants, and some species of fungus, whereas other species could be possibly immortal science. This suggests they are not affected by death, such as in invertebrates or fishes. Aging could be triggered or accelerated by environmental factors or from genetic alterations.

As we get older, our bodies experience various changes that trigger changes in the structure and function of our cells. Some of those changes aren't really part of the aging process, however they cause slow deterioration of the human body. Proteins, fats, carbs and certain portions are metabolized primarily as byproducts of metabolism. Other substances can be stored from being used as tissue and so wind up as deposits within the body. These may finally result in aging.

There are also a number of changes that occur to the genes. A number of genes control various processes such as reproduction, metabolism and development. Because the actions of these enzymes change with aging, age also affects the action of these genes, contributing to the development of age-related illnesses and diseases.

The significant organ that is significantly affected by aging is the skin. As we grow old, the production of collagen decreases. Collagen is a fibrous protein that cushions and fills the joints and gives skin its elasticity. Since it gradually reduces in its level, the skin also loses its softness and starts to wrinkle. This may occur both in women and men. The onset of wrinkling depends on the amount of exposure to sunlight, general health and the amount of fat present on skin.

Another organ that experiences aging is your kidney. The kidney acts mainly as a filtering organ which removes toxins from the body. As the kidney ages, it produces less urine and wastes more protein. The kidneys also have a propensity to eliminate the ability to absorb nutrients and minerals from the blood aging. This can be accompanied by a change in the blood pressure, which may result to high or very low glucose levels.

Aside from the visible signs of aging, another essential indication of aging is the decline in the efficacy of the immune system. An aging body allows germs to thrive easily and this contributes to diseases and infections. The reduction of the natural capability of the immune system to fight against diseases can result to allergies, asthma and even cancer.