MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2022, DNA

 MONDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2022 DNA

DNA - It was on February 28, 1953 (or 69 years ago), that  Cambridge University scientists James D. Watson and Francis H.C. Crick announced that they had determined the double-helix structure of DNA, the molecule containing human genes. 

DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, present in every living organism, is a biological instruction manual that contains all the information needed for your body’s development, reproduction, and survival. 

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Heart of today’s thoughts:

But this vital little molecule is under constant attack from radiation, air pollution, cigarette smoke, toxic compounds in food, even byproducts of the body’s normal metabolic processes. But you can save your DNA. Cells are able to repair much of this damage, especially when we’re younger; as we age, though, DNA damage accumulates and the cells become less proficient at making the necessary repairs. The result: a build-up of damaged DNA, accelerated aging, and an increase in the risk of cancer and other diseases. 

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I learned something from my research - DNA can mutate (I somehow thought it was unchangeable). 

You can’t stop aging—but you can prevent DNA damage from accumulating and even heal existing damage. Try these genius, science-backed ways to save your DNA:

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The only real option right now to fix genetic diseases is to use gene therapy. In gene therapy, the "good" version of a gene is introduced into a patient's DNA. The hope is that this healthy copy of the gene will overcome the problems of the disease version.

And, like so many of the health issues - the same remedies seem to work:

SLEEP

Our brains need plenty of shut-eye to keep DNA healthy. During slumber, chromosomes within DNA appear to be more active, healing DNA faster and more efficiently than during waking hours. Studies suggest lack of sleep is linked with diminished DNA repair and more breaks in DNA

EXERCISE

Regular physical exercise increases antioxidant capacity, protects DNA, and reduces the effects of age-related declines in DNA repair. In one study, 16 weeks of physical exercise dramatically increased antioxidant activity, decreased DNA strand breaks, and promoted DNA repair.

Regular physical exercise increases antioxidant capacity, protects DNA, and reduces the effects of age-related declines in DNA repair. In one study, 16 weeks of physical exercise dramatically increased antioxidant activity, decreased DNA strand breaks, and promoted DNA repair. And it happens fast; some effects were measurable even after a single 20-minute workout. What you do isn’t as important as how often you do it—so make it engaging.

NUTRITION

Slashing your daily calories (while still getting adequate nutrients) supports DNA repair and protects against age-related diseases.

Especially processed, cured or red meat; they contain or can generate compounds that make DNA more vulnerable. Diets high in red meat are linked with an increase in DNA damage, while vegetarian and vegan diets are associated with higher antioxidant levels and less harm to DNA.

Here’s what to include: apples, mango, orange juice, apricots, watermelon, papayas, mangos, and leafy greens are all high in nutrients shown to protect DNA. Blueberries are especially powerful; in one study, 10.5 ounces significantly lessened damage to DNA, in only an hour.  If you eat dairy, add Greek yogurt; research suggests it can reduce DNA damage in colon cells. 

Besides restricting calories, outright abstinence from food has a powerful impact on DNA repair and longevity. Periods of fasting, or intermittent fasting practices, reduce oxidative damage to DNA and promote the production of compounds associated with increased longevity. Even a few weeks of intermittent fasting can significantly save your DNA and reduce compounds that promote tumors. The easiest way to do it: skip breakfast and delay eating until 10 or 12, eat a normal (healthy) diet until 8 at night, and stop eating until the next day. 

The body’s production of DNA depends on the right nutrients

SUNSHINE / RADIATION

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is one of the most significant—and avoidable—threats to DNA. The sun’s UVA and UVB rays trigger various types of DNA damage and can lead to cell death, DNA mutations, premature aging, and skin cancer. The easiest way to protect your DNA: use sunscreen religiously, even on cloudy days.

GREEN TEA

One study found drinking four cups of green tea a day decreased DNA damage, even in heavy smokers. Or try mushroom “coffee” blends; some varieties, like reishi and Chaga, may protect DNA and promote repair. 

STRESS

Exposure to ongoing anxiety and the subsequent increase in stress hormones like cortisol trigger certain biological pathways that lead to DNA damage, including lowering levels of compounds that save your DNA.

Science-backed ways to lessen stress: take a walk in nature, listen to upbeat music, sniff lavender oil. Or try the 4-7-8 breathing method: inhale to the count of four, hold for seven and exhale for eight.

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SO - DNA can be broken, harmed, or mutated.  Good health habits can help keep DNA healthy.  (And, of course, good health habits can help avoid dementia, diabetes, and a lot of other ailments!!!)

(But, do I want to live to be 150 years old?  I’m not sure!!!)

LOVE WINS!!

Karen  - February 28, 2022