This timeless question is the reason Spanish explorer Ponce de Leon searched the New World for the Fountain of Youth.
For thousands of years, people have tried to turn back the clock. But doing so has been little more than an impossible dream.
Given enough time, the human body ages. It’s inevitable…and unchangeable.
But maybe not entirely.
Recent research suggests aging may not be a one-way trip afterall. In fact, it may be possible to stop or even reverse the physical and mental decline we all know as “aging”.
The results are still preliminary…but three new therapies in particular show considerable promise:
Stem Cells
You’ve probably heard about stem cells over the past several years. They’ve become an integral part of cutting edge treatments for everything from skin grafts to cancer.
Why all the excitement where aging is concerned? Stem cells are the “building blocks” for every type of cell in your body. They act as your personal replacement system for old, worn-out, or diseased cells.
Aging is essentially an imbalance between cell destruction and regeneration. And stem cells constantly repair and replace worn-out or damaged tissue.
However, as people get older they have fewer stem cells. Also, the quality and function of stem cells declines with time. As a result…cell repair and replacement no longer keeps up with daily wear and tear.
Current stem cell research is focused on:
- Restoring function to the body’s existing stem cells.
- Replacing worn-out stem cells with new ones.
In one promising proof-of-concept study, replacing old stem cells in the brains of mice resulted in improved cognitive function.
Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN)
Doctors have used naltrexone to treat opioid and alcohol addiction for years. It’s effective for this purpose because Naltrexone inhibits opioid activity in the body but doesn’t have a narcotic effect of its own. When treating addiction, 25-50 mg per day is a typical dose.
However, for more than two decades, “Low Dose Naltrexone” (also known as LDN) has been used “off-label” to treat autoimmune disorders. When used for this purpose, dosage is typically 1.5-12 mg per day (with 3-4.5 mg per day being common).
How can LDN promote a longer life? LDN has been shown to:
- Increase endorphin production (which improves mood and promotes feelings of well-being).
- Modulate the immune system.
- Suppress inflammation.
- Reduce physical and mental fatigue.
- Relieve chronic pain.
In addition to successfully treating autoimmune illnesses, it’s worth noting that LDN has also been used to treat Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, ALS, HIV/AIDS, and cancer.
Metformin
Made from compounds found in the French Lilac, Metformin has been used since the Middle Ages to treat diabetes and has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of type 2 diabetes since 1994.
Metformin works by reducing glucose production in the liver. It also increases sensitivity to insulin and limits the absorption of glucose from food.
Where aging and longevity are concerned, Metformin has shown potential for preventing cancer, cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndromes. What’s interesting is Metformin seems to be effective at preventing disease even in people with healthy blood sugar levels.
The Bottom Line
Stem cells, Low Dose Naltrexone, and Metformin show a lot of potential for improving not just longevity, but also quality of life.
Research on all three is still in the early stages…but the possibilities are exciting.
Meanwhile, there are other steps you can take to reduce the effects of aging on your body:
- Eat a healthy diet.
- Get regular exercise.
- Take vitamins and supplements as needed.
- Make sure your hormones are balanced.
At Renew Youth we’re focused on all things anti-aging!
Want to learn more? Call us at 800-859-7511 or use our contact form to set up your free 30-minute consultation.