Oxidative stress and healthy aging: what science says

We all want to live with more vigour, less pain, and looking after our bodies in a natural way. But did you know that understanding oxidative stress is one of the keys to healthy aging?

The biological clock and oxidative stress

The biological clock is unceasing, but it can be made to run slower. This is why we notice people of the same age who either do not reflect that age or appear much older than they are.

Oxidative stress involves the creation of free radicals from oxygen. This is a natural occurrence in life from the moment it begins, and our body possesses mechanisms that act as antioxidants to counteract this formation.

But as we age, these antioxidant mechanisms begin to diminish. This is when oxidative stress can contribute to chronic disease, inflammation and accelerated aging.

The pillars of health

We all carry a genetic backpack — lighter or heavier — but the pillars of health are always the same:

1. Good nutrition — a balanced diet, low in processed carbohydrates
2. Rest — quality sleep is essential for cellular repair
3. Stress management — chronic stress increases oxidative damage
4. Exercise — the most powerful habit for resetting your genes

Epigenetics: your lifestyle shapes your genes

According to epigenetics, our lifestyle choices can delay the onset of diseases encoded in our genes, providing a way to mitigate their impact. Among all healthy habits, engaging in sports properly is the sole habit capable of resetting genes back to their original condition.

Remember: movement equals life.

Simple habits that make a difference

• Smile — even something as simple as smiling can help preserve antioxidant equilibrium
• Breathe deeply — breathing deeply into the abdomen helps soothe anxiety and nervousness. Put one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. Move only the hand on your belly. Hold your breath for five seconds, then exhale for five seconds. Continue for five minutes.
• Exercise regularly — the most important habit according to epigenetics
• Sleep well — deep sleep is when your body repairs oxidative damage
• Maintain pH balance — your body's pH must stay tightly regulated between 7.35 and 7.45. Stress, poor diet and bad sleep increase acidity, which can lead to disease

How ozone therapy fits in

Ozone therapy is a complementary medical therapy that modulates oxidative stress — in other words, it helps your body maintain the balance between free radicals and antioxidants. This is one of the reasons it can support healthy aging, immune function and recovery.

At Evelyn's Medical Care in Dublin, ozone therapy is part of an integrative approach that combines conventional medicine with complementary therapies, always tailored to each patient.

The bottom line

Healthy aging is possible. It's not about age, but rather your attitude. We have only one body in this life, and we must take care of it with love and persistence. No one else will handle what you need to manage on your own.