Ageing can be defined as the time-related deterioration of the physiological functions necessary for survival and fertility. The characteristics of ageing—as distinguished from diseases of ageing (such as cancer and heart disease)—affect all the individuals of a species. Ageing is accompanied by gradual changes in most body systems. Research on the biology of ageing focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular processes underlying these changes as well as those accompanying the onset of age-related diseases As the cells in the body age, they become less efficient to function. The rate of this is partly determined by genetics, but it is also heavily influenced by our lifestyle choices.

Here are some tips to combat a loss of energy with age. 

Loss of Energy with Age

Ageing involves multiple interacting processes, which brings us face to face with several different theories surrounding its causes. In recent decades, the Mitochondrial Free Radical Theory of Ageing (MFRTA) has taken centre stage as a leading contributor to the loss of energy with age.

Our body produces energy in the mitochondria, where it combines food and oxygen to generate the energy molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP). They also produce unwanted toxic byproducts called free radicals that cause oxidative damage to cells, particularly the mitochondria.

External factors accelerate the production of free radicals, including toxins, infections, allergens, stress, sun damage, pollution, smoking, poor diet, too much food, etc. As we age, the cumulative damage to the mitochondria makes it less efficient at turning fuel into energy and the number of mitochondria per cell reduces. As a result, the body has to function with the leftover energy it had in its youth. This affects the whole body, especially the organs that require the most energy - heart and brain to be precise. 

A major contributor to ageing is mitochondrial decay. Studies have shown that young people have virtually no mitochondrial damage, whereas the mitochondria in the cells of elderly people are mostly dysfunctional. So improving mitochondrial function may help.

There are many other effects of ageing as well, restricted blood flow, slow metabolism, and disrupted sleep patterns. Surely, ageing can't be avoided, there are steps you can take to slow cellular ageing and keep your energy levels consistent.

  • Eat Whole Foods
    Fresh, whole, unprocessed foods with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants renew energy levels. “Packaged, processed foods tend to make you feel sluggish and heavy,” says Johns Hopkins geriatrician Alicia Arbaje, M.D., M.P.H. You can also eat animal products (especially red meat) in moderation—they take longer to digest, which saps energy.
  • Check your Vitamin D
    Vital for energy levels and mood, vitamin D is best taken in through a little sunshine or supplements. When UV rays hit the skin, they get transformed into D. 
  • Revitalize with Vitamin B12
    Another vitamin that’s key for energy levels is B12. It can be found naturally in animal products or you can also switch to almond honey or B12 supplements. 
  • Keep Yourself Energized
    This might sound like a kiddush idea but even a few minutes of movement during the day can prevent dips in energy levels. If you can do more, take a walk in the morning sunshine. This will get you energized for the day, and a daily dose of early morning sunlight can assist in regulating your circadian rhythm, which further aids in improving your quality of nighttime sleep.
  • Honey-Based Supplements
    Yes, you read that right. Honey is a source of carbohydrates and it provides a quick energy boost. This will help you keep your energy levels at their best. Wondering where to find the best honey-based supplements? Log on to your website for a wide range of honey-based supplements. We also have Korean Ginseng as one of our hero ingredients. It is considered to be a popular herbal energy booster, which helps to rejuvenate the body and mind. Taking a Korean Ginseng supplement can support the body's natural response to stress and anxiety, and overcome any energy loss with age.

As we mentioned, we cannot stop ourselves from ageing. But we can surely age better. Let us at Regina, help you take care of your health.