has many goals, some of them, like extending the maximum lifespan, of about 120 years, are not yet within our reach. But many are realistic and worth striving for.

How do we move towards these goals? Here are some of the essential steps:

1. Prevent Premature Aging

The first and most important step in Longevity Medicine consists of good old prevention. How do you answer the following questions?

2. Take Antioxidants

According to Denham Harman, the father of the free radical theory of aging, oxidation, and the production of so-called free radicals, constantly goes on in our bodies. These unpaired electrons damage cell structures, like DNA, RNA, and proteins. Antioxidants contained in food (mostly vegetables and fruit) or as nutritional supplements counter this effect.

3. Replace declining Hormones

As we age our hormones steadily decline. From decade to decade the levels of DHEA, Growth Hormone, Melatonin and Sex Hormones fall off. Aggravating this hormonal decline is the fact that aging cells are incresingly resistant to hormones. That leads - according to the neuroendocrine theory of aging - to a hormonal starvation of our cells. The bodys ability to repair and regulate is impaired and resiliency and vitality decline. The first step in hormone replacement therapy is to get your current hormone levels tested and find out if you are deficient.

4. Choose a program that is right for you

Like always in medicine, a Longevity Program has to be individualized, and the potential risks and benefits have to be taken into account.

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Longevity Medicine | Hans Gruenn MD