Aging is a natural process that cannot be avoided by all living beings, but the rate of progression varies from person to person, and sometimes it feels like aging is progressing suddenly. In particular, recent research has revealed that the human brain plays an important role in the aging process, and interest in the relationship between the brain and the body is increasing.
When does brain aging progress the fastest? According to a study jointly published by Stanford University and Harvard University in the United States, the human brain begins to rapidly age in the mid-40s, and the aging rate increases even more rapidly after the 50s. Brain aging causes changes such as memory loss, decreased attention, and weakened emotional control, and these changes are linked to aging of the entire body, affecting physical functions.
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[Korean Today] Brain hippocampus © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
The research team revealed that a specific part of the brain, the hippocampus, is closely related to aging. The hippocampus is an area responsible for memory and learning, and as we age, the number of neurons in this area decreases and connectivity weakens. This can increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia that occur with aging. Brain aging is not simply due to age, but is also affected by genes, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits. Stress, lack of sleep, and poor eating habits are identified as major factors that accelerate brain aging.
Why do people suddenly seem to age? Aging occurs gradually over time, but at certain points, there are times when appearance and physical functions suddenly appear to change drastically. This is called “accelerated aging,” and lifestyle and environmental changes are considered the main causes.
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[Korean Today] What is my brain age? © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
For example, chronic stress increases the body’s inflammatory response and accelerates cell damage by excessively producing active oxygen. This causes wrinkles on the skin, weakens immunity, and rapidly reduces physical strength and metabolism. In addition, hormonal changes are also factors that promote sudden aging. In particular, in the case of women, skin elasticity decreases due to a decrease in estrogen during menopause, and brain function is often affected.
Let’s find out how to slow down aging. Although aging cannot be stopped, there are various ways to slow it down. Experts emphasize the following lifestyle habits as the most important factors for maintaining brain and body health. Regular exercise improves blood circulation in the brain and body and promotes the creation of new nerve cells. In particular, aerobic exercise (walking, jogging, cycling) helps maintain memory and learning ability by activating the hippocampus of the brain. It is recommended to exercise more than 30 minutes a day, 5 times a week.
A balanced diet is recommended for brain health, including foods rich in antioxidants (berries, green vegetables, nuts). Also, healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, tuna) help protect brain cell membranes. On the other hand, sugar and processed food intake can accelerate brain aging, so caution is required. Sufficient sleep is important for the brain to repair damaged cells, organize memories, and remove toxins. It is essential to get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep every day. Lack of sleep can increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
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[Korean Today] Various ways to slow down the aging process © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
Chronic stress is a major cause of accelerated brain and body aging. It is important to manage stress and maintain positive thinking by using relaxation techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing. To maintain brain activity, activities that constantly stimulate the brain, such as solving puzzles, reading, and learning a new language, can strengthen neural connections and slow down brain aging.
Participation in social activities should be incorporated into daily life. Social isolation is a factor that increases the risk of brain aging. Continuing to meet with family and friends and participating in community activities has a positive effect on both mental and physical health. What is the secret to youth that science reveals? According to recent research, maintaining brain health plays a crucial role in slowing down the overall aging process. The brain is the body’s “control tower,” and various bodily functions such as immunity, hormones, and metabolism are affected by the health of the brain.
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[Korean Today] Super Ager © Reporter Park Jeong-hee |
In order to prevent aging, it is important to not only focus on external care, but also protect the brain and maintain healthy lifestyle habits. If you practice the secrets that science has revealed, you will be able to stay young longer and live a vibrant life. Aging is an unavoidable reality, but you can control the speed of aging through your own efforts. Starting today, you need to make small changes and work hard to protect the health of your brain and body.
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