Why muscle SORE after Exercise?

  

People who work out rigorously with weights, muscle tears and rebuilds form part of the natural growth and conditioning process.  Unfortunately, active sporting people are not taking this problem seriously and thus subject to more significant injuries including muscle strains, sprains and even serious tears.


As for inactive people who have not been exercising for a long time and decide to go for a run to wake up the next morning with two heavy legs.  Why?


Characteristics


The soreness is perceived as a dull, aching pain in the affected muscle, often combined with tenderness and stiffness. The pain is felt only when the muscle is stretched, contracted or put under pressure, not when it is at rest.  Although there is variance among exercises and individuals, the soreness usually increases in intensity in the first 24 hours after exercise, peaks from 24 to 72 hours, then subsides and disappears after about five to seven days after exercise.


Cause


The soreness is caused by eccentric exercise, that is, exercise consisting of eccentric (lengthening) contractions. Isometric (static) exercise causes much less soreness, and concentric (shortening) exercise causes none.

When a muscle lengthens against a load – like in weightlifting the flexed arms attempt to catch the loaded weight and the muscle contraction is said to be eccentric. In other words, the muscle is actively contracting, attempting to shorten its length, but it is failing. These eccentric contractions have been shown to result in more muscle cell damage than is seen with typical concentric contractions, in which a muscle successfully shortens during contraction against a load.  Aerobic exercises can also involve many eccentric contractions, such as downhill running where body impact on the legs is intense, even without any noticeable burning sensations in the muscles during the event.

Mechanism


As our bodies perform strenuous exercise, we begin to breathe faster as we attempt to shuttle more oxygen to our working muscles. The body prefers to generate most of its energy using aerobic methods, meaning with oxygen.

Some circumstance like lifting heavy weights require energy production faster than our bodies can adequately deliver oxygen. In those cases, the working muscles generate energy anaerobically. This energy comes from glucose through a process called glycolysis, in which glucose is broken down or metabolized into a substance called pyruvate through a series of steps. When the body has plenty of oxygen, pyruvate is shuttled to an aerobic pathway to be further broken down for more energy. When oxygen is limited, the body temporarily converts pyruvate into a substance called lactate, which allows glucose breakdown, and thus energy production to continue. The working muscle cells can continue this type of anaerobic energy production at high rates for one to three minutes, during which time lactate can accumulate to high levels. 


A side effect of high lactate levels is an increase in the acidity of the muscle cells, along with disruptions of other metabolites around them.  The body starts to complain about tiredness and needs to recuperate to prevent further or permanent damage.  Once the body is allowed to slow down, oxygen becomes available and lactate reverts back to pyruvate and clear off other metabolites along the way, allowing continued aerobic metabolism and energy for the body’s recovery from the strenuous event.


Prevention/Treatment

+  Delayed onset muscle soreness can be reduced or prevented by gradually increasing the intensity of a new exercise program, thereby taking advantage of the repeated-bout effect.

+  Soreness can theoretically be avoided by limiting exercise to concentric and isometric contractions, but this may also not be practical depending on the mode of exercise.  Eccentric exercises are advisable for stronger individuals or the weaker ones certified fit by medical practitioners to undertake on gradual basis.

+  Stretching or warming up the muscles does not prevent soreness.  Instead, overstretching can by itself cause soreness.

+  Taking a hot shower can relax the muscle for faster recovery.

+  By soaking three times each week in a warm tub scented with 10 drops of peppermint oil, your muscles will relax, whilst the peppermint oil soothe your nerves. The effect can be 25% more effectively than over-the-counter painkillers, and cut the frequency of future flare-ups in half.

+  Taking enough vitamins and other nutrients can aid in recovery from muscles injuries.

-  Co-enzyme Q10 may boost athletic performance and reduce muscle injury according to a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition measuring elite practitioners of the Japanese martial art kendo.  Besides helping the body to utilise oxygen and generates energy, it also plays an important role in preserving levels of vitamin E and vitamin C.

-  Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can neutralise free radicals produced during strenuous exercise.  Thus, it may reduce muscle pain and expedite recovery following intense workouts.  For weightlifters, it helps to avoid injury because of its ability to produce collagen for a stronger connective tissue.

-   Vitamin E is another potent antioxidant that may neutralise free radicals leading to muscle damage.  It is much needed for rebuilding and repairing muscles between workouts.

-   Glutamine is a popular amino acid amongst weight trainers.  It is known to boost glutathione, an antioxidant that helps the body to recover from intense workouts and prevents muscle breakdown.  Hence, it is a great supplement for overall muscle recovery and health. 


-  Nitric acid - Increasing nitric oxide has become the new secret weapon for athletes and bodybuilders. Supplements with L-arginine and L-citrulline promote production of nitric acid that support the flow of blood and oxygen to the skeletal muscle as well as facilitate the removal of exercise-induced lactic acid build-up for faster recovery.



VIVA corner


Over-exercise can cause muscle fatigue due to eccentric contractions and excessive buildup of lactic acid. Taking good supplements can help to mitigate the negative effects.

+  VIVA Guard’s antioxidant enzyme formulation prevents free radical damage and aids in recovery of injuries (eg. pain and inflammation) and removes lactic acid expeditiously.

+  VIVA Oxypower, with its strong Coenzyme10 element lessens the risk of injury due to excessive exercise as the muscle cells are able to uptake more oxygen effectively.  The exclusive antioxidant formulation includes Vitamin A, C and E.

+  The free form amino acids in VIVA Ageguard provides the body the necessary nutrients to rebuild healthy tissues arising from muscle wear and tear during the exercise process.  Glutamine is available as one of its key ingredients. Its high arginine content helps to boost nitric acid level as enumerated above.

Turning back the body's BIOLOGICAL clock

Human growth hormone (HGH)

Hormones are tiny chemical messengers continuously secreted in the bloodstream to enable the body to regulate the activities of the vital organs. The word ‘hormone‘ is derived from a Greek word meaning ‘to stimulate’.

Growth hormone is one of many endocrine hormones like estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, melatonin and DHEA that are responsible for our normal growth and deter some aging effects.

HGH is produced in the master or pituitary gland located in our brain, and it secretes hormones influencing growth of cells, bones, muscles and organs throughout our lifetime. It promotes growth in children, peaks in their adolescence and plays a pivotal role in adult metabolism.


Every 3 years or so around 90% of our 100 trillion cells undergo dying and regeneration. Although only the brain retains its original cells, new proteins are continuously being produced to store memories of every new experience. Overall intelligence, memory and learning ability are dependent on adequacy of growth hormone to function properly.

With aging, the pituitary gland releases less growth hormone. This declining level has a strong correlation with increasing aging process. Related symptoms such as wrinkling of the skin, increased body fat, decreased muscle mass, increased cholesterol, decline in stamina and energy level, reduced mental function and loss of libido are natural phenomenon but the extent of which varies with individuals.

Research history


In 1958, HGH was put on experiments to help children suffering from dwarfism to grow normally having discovered that their pituitary glands were either defective or not functioning at all. For treatment purpose then, HGH was extracted from pituitary glands collected from post mortem of corpses in Africa. Thousands of brains of the dead had to be harvested to yield just a few drops of HGH. Results were so amazing that 10 years later FDA approved the usage of HGH in treating any person suffering from growth hormone deficiency.

In 1985, a new breakthrough successfully produced large quantities of HGH through micro-biological replication by inserting human DHA into microorganisms. This technique of genetic engineering marked a new milestone in anti-aging treatment with many clinical studies backing.

A pioneer scientist, Dr Daniel Rudman indicated in his 1985 publish in the New England Journal of Medicine that “human aging is a result of HGH deficiency, and is not the commonly accepted view of inevitable natural phenomenon” and “that by stimulating the pituitary gland with HGH, the gland could be made to recover its function to secrete HGH again” won him many patients – including celebrities, corporate executives, renowned doctors, specialists and scholars at that time.






Biological activities


Growth Hormone stimulates the liver to produce IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor) which in turn stimulates growth in cells throughout the body, leading to growth and development (as in the womb and through adolescence), strengthening of tissues (improving bone density, building muscle), and healing (skin, bones, gut lining etc.), depending on where is needed. An average individual should have 350 IU per litre. For those below average especially on unhealthy diet over prolonged periods, tend to look older than their actual age. The natural substances extracted from foods provide nutritional support for the release of growth hormone from the pituitary gland. Hence, a balanced diet comprising about 40% complex carbohydrates, 30% protein and 30% fat is crucial for normal development.

Synergistic nutrition like precursors, stimulants (eg. vitamin B3) and synergists (eg. DHEA) help to support growth hormone levels. Some precursors include amino acids glycine, tryptophan, arginine, omithine, glutamine and lysine provide the substances to stimulate the production of the growth hormone.

Like the other endocrine hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone and DHEA that decline with age, raising the output of HGH can retard biological aging. At the same time, it can reverse a wide range of the signs and symptoms associated with aging. So even though it is impossible to revert to the growth hormone level at age 25, stimulating the pituitary gland sufficiently can yield good results in nourishing all organs and rebuilding them.


In 1991 a Dr Robert PhD in Biomedical Engineering developed an oral delivery system for Growth Hormone. His studies showed an average increase of 30% in IGF-1 levels every 30 days and by 90 days, most of the test subjects had doubled their IG-1 levels.

Health benefits

Studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine and other journals showed that HGH may reverse human biological aging and tested effects over 6 months-

* Restoring muscle mass – has substantial effects on muscle building (by 81%), strength (by 88%) and endurance

* Decreasing body fat – revs up the metabolism to reduce fat and increase muscle mass (by 72%)

* Thickening the skin – becomes more elastic and hydrated (by 71%), and can heal burn skin and close ulcerated wounds too

* Reducing wrinkles – antioxidant activity can remove free radicals (by 61%)

* Restoring hair color and growth – usually appears fast and thicker (by 38%)

* Increasing energy and vitality – reinvigorates the mind, concentration and thinking power

* Increasing sexual function – restores sexual potency and sexuality

* Improving cholesterol profile – helps especially menopausal women as their bad cholesterols rise whilst the good cholesterols diminish.

* Restoring size of liver, pancreas, heart and other organs that shrink with age

* Improving vision - strengthens the eye muscles

* Improving memory – stimulates the rejuvenation and repair of brain cells

* Elevating mood and improving sleep – acts as an anti-depressant, raising endorphin levels and lowering dopamine

* Normalising blood pressure

* Increasing cardiac output and stamina

* Improving immune function - increases the production of new antibodies, T-cells and interlukin 2, induces the proliferation of disease fighting white blood cells, stimulates bacteria fighting macrophages and improves production of red blood cells

Dr Rudman concluded: “The effects of 6 mths of HGH on lean body mass and adipose-tissue were equivalent in magnitude to the changes incurred during 10-20 years of aging.”

HGH and Women

The average age of menopause is 50. A resultant drop in hormone disrupts the normal function of the ovaries, causing irregular cycle or lesser volume during the menstruation and can even grind it to a halt. Other accompanying effects include hot flash, night sweat, emotional disturbances, dry skin, wrinkles, weak bladder control, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Other comments

+ Aging is now considered a disease and not just a normal occurrence which goes unchecked. Scientists, geneticists and pharmaceutical companies are racing against time to find more effective biological technologies to slow the aging process. To-date, there is no other substance known to man to possess such far-reaching ability and the medical field has to be contented with HGH. Of course, discipline in diet and exercise are two biggest physical weapons against aging and disease.

+ Hormone of all hormones, consistent use of HGH stimulates a very natural process in the human system whereby one’s pituitary gland resumes secretion of growth hormone at levels which occurred during youth, thereby regulating the entire endocrine system, including modulation of hormones, blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

+ Growth hormone is circulated throughout the body by the blood every nite between 11-1 am. If one stayed up late or misses the sleep period, benefits from the naturally secreted growth hormone are lost. Night time is also when the body carries out muscle repair and growth, so providing an adequate supply of 'light' protein is crucial for this purpose. For instance, those who lift weights tear myofibrils, the tiny sinews of tissue that make up the muscles and takes up to 48 hours to repair themselves.

+ Since time immemorial, no one can achieve immortality. However, scientists now believe that in the near future the average life expectancy of humans will be 100-120 years. The improvements in medicine, nutrition and vitamin supplements can make it possible.  However, to truly enjoy quality of life, HGH should be added to experience positive changes in body composition to remain healthy and youthful into our golden era.

It is never too young or too old to combat the signs of aging. Start today!


CAUTION!!!

Avoid turning to HGH therapy to reverse or retard age-related symptoms of physical and mental decline.  Artificial hormone through injection may work counterproductive if not properly administered and can have side effects too.


VIVA corner

VIVA Life Science came up with an unique formulation to help jumpstart your internal journey back to a move youthful state.

The free form (unchained for easy absorption) amino acids in VIVA Ageguard from soy and rice protein with unique ingredients make up the proprietary formulation which can be used to promote the natural secretion of HGH safely. Note that only those labelled 'L" or left spin are extracted as they fit into the cell receptors nicely.

Some of the amino acids are:

+ Arginine found in it blocks the action of somatostatin which inhibits the production of HGH. 200 mg is enough to elicit a GH (growth hormone) response (800 mg in 6 caps). Even at age 70, it can boost GH levels by 3 folds. Other benefits are:

- 10 gms of Arginine combined with 3 mins of weight-lifting daily resulted in loss of 25 lbs of fat and 5 lbs of muscle gain in 6 weeks

- Reduces the growth of tumor cells significantly and metastasis cancer, especially in breast cancer

- Normalises and prevents high blood pressure and reduces the damage associated with congestive heart failure and stroke as well as in cerebral and carotid arteries

- Reduces effects of glaucoma, chronic hepatitis, kidney and liver disease

- Helps in improving sperm motility and enhanced fertility

- Improves immune functions and wound healing

+ Ornithine improves quality and longevity of life, reduces impacts of major illnesses like lung carcinoma, prostate cancer, colon and breast cancer

+ Glycine promotes muscle growth into old age, stimulates the secretion of human growth hormone, and prevents loss of cartilage in joints

+ Isoleucine protects the central nervous system and brain from toxins

+ Histidine exhibits protective effects on cardiac and brain function circulation

+ Lysine reduces herpes occurrence (core sores, fever blisters, genital herpes), rheumatic disorders, migraine headaches, post operative pain and improves wound healing

+ Tryptophan improves Parkinson disease, schizophrenia and depression

+ Glutamine has a wide range of applications such as:

- improves adrenal function, asthma, immune function and reduces tumor growth

- prevents radiation injury in patients undergoing radiation therapy by protecting normal tissue

- exhibits strong anti-tumor activity against leukemia and melanoma

- prevents onset of diabetes and improves glucose tolerance

- reduces occurrence of infections and improves liver function

+ Methionine reduces lead poisoning and toxicity and thus prevents liver damage

5 other major herbal ingredients in the Ageguard formulation:

- Tribulus terrestris - saponins in this plant have a dilating action that helps to improve circulation and enhance physical performance

- Dandelion root - helps to reduce cellular water retention and congestion in the liver and gallbladder

- Milk thistle - contains constituents like silymarin, which protects the liver from chemical damage and helps the body cope with environmental toxins

- Saw palmetto - strengthens and tones the body's reproductive organs in both sexes and improves bladder muscle function

- Licorice - provides various health benefits to the body which include counteracting stress, detoxifying the liver, soothing the stomach, purifying the blood and reducing capillary permeability.

Supplement facts: Serving Size 6 Capsules

Amount Per 6 Capsules L-Isoleucine** 273 mg* L-Leucine** 546 mg* L-Lysine** 780 mg* L-Valine** 273 mg* L-Arginine 806 mg* L-Glutamine 90 mg* L-Ornithine 684 mg* OKG (L-Ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate) 120 mg* Proprietary Blend:soy protein (bean), tribulus terrestris (fruit), dandelion (root), licorice (root), milk thistle (seed), saw palmetto (fruit) 470 mg*

NOTE: AGEGUARD CONTAINS NO ANIMAL PRODUCTS OR BY-PRODUCTS (like glandulars and organ parts), OR SYNTHETIC HORMONES.

How to take:

+ For best result, take 6 capsules before bedtime or during the daytime as an energy booster

+ After a workout by athletes for better recovery

+ You can choose to take 5 days in a row and break for 2 days on continuous basis or daily for 6 months and break for a month.

In conclusion.....

We should always ensure that sufficient amount of growth hormone is available throughout our lifetime in order to maintain the body's metabolism in optimum level and thus achieve the desirable health status.

Scared of AGING?

Why do some people never seem to grow old? Some have grey hair or balding by the time they hit 30 whilst others have dark hair well into their 60-70. Science explains this is our genetic makeup affecting bone mass, muscle strength, memory, skin texture and metabolism.

Having said that if you are not well-endowed, do not despair. You cannot stop the biological clock from ticking but can prevent or reverse premature aging and turn back the hands of time by as much as 10-20 years. Science has discovered the damaging effects of aging and can be counteracted if positive actions are taken to manage the controllable factors.

(Do you still remember the faces of those gorgeous movie stars we used to adore on the big screen?)

How to slow aging process?

+ If aging is a state of mind, by staying positive and optimistic, we can achieve a healthy body too. So letting go negative emotions like anger, fear and regret, can relieve our adrenal glands unnecessary burden and stress. With it, our immune function is improved and leaving us less susceptible to infectious diseases.

+ Another controllable factor that most people do not put in efforts to manage is dieting. Recent studies found out that this premature aging problem is compounded with 92% of the human population not eating right (unbalanced diet) and thus are partially malnourished. By not consuming a necessary nutrient on a daily basis, we become deficient in that nutrient. After a prolonged period, this can develop into a deficiency disease. For instance, being short of calcium for too long can cause osteoporosis.

An adult human body requires 11 different vitamins, 14 different minerals and 8 different amino acids on a daily basis to feed our trillion cells. Note all these essential nutrients cannot be manufactured in the body, and have to be extracted from food. Being deprived of them over a prolonged period, our bodies are unable to operate optimally. As a result, people complain much about tiredness, depressed, severe lethargy, moody, temperamental these days. As we force our body to cope with mounting stress but fail to provide a strong immune system, our cells break down faster and die prematurely. As a whole, serious deficiency diseases can cause permanent disability or death. Now, we appreciate better why a nutritional supplement can be a life-saver or quality life saver to be taken religiously.

+ The key culprit to aging is free radicals, produced as a normal cell function in young, healthy bodies. However, sunrays, smokes, food additives and other pollutants trigger unhealthy free radical production. At excessive levels, their unstable molecular structures enter our body and damage DNA, proteins, and components at cellular level. This is manifested as wrinkles, loss of elasticity and dry skin texture. On more intensive basis, other chronic and degenerative diseases take place. The extent of damage is dependent on the body's immune and detoxification functionality. Antioxidants can prevent cellular damage by contributing its own electron to stabilise the free radicals' molecules or scavenge them.

+ The responsibility of regenerative and immunological task is carried out by HGH (human growth hormone), the hormone that regulates the building, rebuilding and healing processes.

According to the National Institute of Health Research the pitutiary gland secretes less and less HGH as we age. At our peak of 21, HGH level declines and by 40 our body is producing a mere 5% of the needed HGH, making it difficult to maintain proper cellular and tissue regeneration which results in poor healing and insufficient tissue construction. Avoid the consumption of excessively sweet foods, as it results in a rise of sugar level that is counterproductive to the release and utilisation of HGH. This is especially so before going to bed, as the primary supply of HGH is released during such time.

Can we replenish the level of natural growth hormone given its ever declining trend? The answer lies in the three elements below.

Protein, Amino acids, HGH

Protein is essential for healthy growth, strong muscles, immune function, absorption of nutrients, enzyme function and is needed for the manufacture of hormones, antibodies, enzymes and tissues.

The body needs sufficient input to perform a specific task. For instance, our skin regenerates itself every 5-7 weeks. Collagen and elastin are essential to having a strong healthy and elastic skin. Without which, the skin becomes dry, cracked and wrinkled.

Once protein is consumed, the stomach acid and enzymes begin to dissolve or break down the long fibrous protein into tiny absorbable amino acids, that find its way into the bloodstream to be circulated throughout the body and are used in all body systems as 'building blocks".

Amino acids are designated as non-essential and essential (28 in kind). Non-essential amino acids are produced by the liver (about 80% of all bodily needs) or manufactured from other amino acids whilst essential amino acids are food-derived. Aminos are about 16% nitrogen, vital for production of energy to fuel all the cells for normal functioning.

Signs of falling hair, fatigue, weakened muscles, wrinkled skin, failure to think clearly can be attributed to amino acid deficient. With passage of time, mild symptoms can be developed into serious illnesses. When more aminos are introduced into the body, the symptoms can be reversed.

The right mix of amino acids can act as a natural human growth hormone releaser to defy aging process. This hormone is released by the master gland during the first hour of the deepest levels of R.E.M sleep. That is why a one hour power nap can be so rejuvenating. More releases occur around 3-4 pm and 11 pm-1 am each day (no tea break and supper please). After the secretion, HGH travels through the liver where it metabolises into IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) necessary for promoting glucose metabolism, stimulating growth of immune factors and becomes a source of fuel for cells.

An important amino acid like Arginine can help to fix up the many health problems including:

- Improves immune function and wound healing, which has regenerative effects and can be one of many reasons tissue deterioration during the aging process can be reversed. Hence, it can prevent the symptoms of premature aging. (Journal of Nutrition)

- Reduces the growth of tumour cells significantly and metastasis of cancer. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition)

There are countless scientific studies documented on the effects of HGH that demonstrate anti-aging effects are dubious whilst many peer reviews and journals are trying to prove that HGH the new 'Fountain of Youth', endorsed by educated experts in the field do benefit most people, prevent and reverse symptoms of premature aging.

Here are some credible quotes:

* Stanford Medical Researchers:

"It is possible that physiologic growth hormone replacement might reverse or prevent some of the inevitable effects of aging.

* The New England Journal of Medicine (most credible medical journal in the world):

"The overall deterioration of the body that comes with growing old is not inevitable. We now realise that some aspects of it (aging) can be prevented or reverse."

"The effects of 6 months of HGH on lean body mass and adipose tissue mass were equivalent in magnitude to the changes incurred during 10-20 years of aging. This means that your lean body mass (muscles) can become as if they were 10-20 years younger. This is important because a person loses 2% of their muscle mass and strength each year after 35. What this means is, a 60 yo person who has aged normally has lost 50% of their muscle mass but over 6 months of increased HGH they could turn back the hands of time 10-20 years and this is a 20-40% increase in muscle mass. The 60 yo would feel as if they were 40 yo. This is true of their energy levels, mood and overall health as well. In fact one of the most common reasons the elderly wind up in a rest home is because their leg muscles become so weak they cannot stand on their own anymore. They become dependent on someone else for all their care and were confined to a wheelchair simply because they allowed their legs to become weak. It should be noted that the average elderly person only lives 9 months after they are confined to a wheelchair."

"The adipose tissue (fats) can be reduced as well, and this is important because there is too much obesity and it is one of the fastest growing diseases contributing to arthritis, heart disease, cancer and a lowering quality of life. HGH combines with amino acids builds muscles that burn fat for fuel and the consumer can become stronger, leaner and reduce significant heart risks......"

* Dr Rudman (Author of New England Journal of Medicine) :

"Growth hormone given to elderly men regrew the livers, spleens and muscles that had shrunken with age back to their youthful sizes, which means this could keep someone from being confined to a wheelchair, or being institutionalised, which certainly would increase their quality of life."

* Dr Klatz:

"HGH is the ultimate anti-aging therapy. It affects almost every cell in the body, rejuvenating the skin and bones, heart, liver, lungs and kidney while bringing organ and tissue function back to youthful levels...It is an anti-disease medicine that revitalises the immune system, lowers the risk factors for heart disease and stroke, and prevent osteoporosis. It is cosmetic surgery in a bottle because it irons out facial wrinkles, restoring the elasticity, thickness and contours of youthful skin, reversing the loss of extra cellular water that makes old people look like dried up prunes."

In essence, both Dr Rudman and Dr Ronald Klatz stated that growth hormone given to elderly can reinstate the body to its youthful condition with regrew livers, spleens, heart, lungs, kidneys, muscles, skin and bones.

Dr Chein and Terry from the Wisconsin College of Medicine quantified and published many other benefits like improvements in vision, sleep quality, skin elasticity, sexual performance, quicken wound healing and better quality of life.

* Scientific research has proven that increased levels of HGH can safely do the followings:

+ Regenerate damaged tissues (Journal of Clinical Investigation)

+ Prevent Symptoms of aging (New England Journal of Medicine)

+ Reverse Symptoms of aging (National Academy of Sciences)

+ Rejuvenate deteriorated organs (New England Journal of Medicine)

+ Amino acids increase HGH levels and "improve the quality and longevity of life" (Age Aging)

These studies illustrate the fact that thousands of people have been safely studied in controlled clinical studies and the benefits of HGH are published. There are few thousands of such studies published and hundred of thousands of elderly people in the world living a vibrant life filled with vitality, health and energy to go that extra mile.

Synthetic HGH Injections?

Not only are they very expensive (one IU costs S$100 per day) , the side effects can be disastrous if not handled properly. A drug, Metformin (used for diabetic treatment) that has fat-shedding properties and ability to retain lean muscle mass can potentially cause lactic acidosis, where the blood becomes dangerously acidic, causing death, especially applied on patients who are on very low carbohydrate diets (eg. Atkins diet) and also those with liver and kidney problems.

Also, once started on the HGH injection is hard to get off, and HGH level drops quickly within 3 weeks once stopped. Taking supplements can increase HGH level safely though at 1/3 the effectiveness of drug injection. Those needing instant boost like drowning victims, professional players, bodybuilders or long term treatment for dwarfism and nerve damage may benefit since body either cannot produce or require more HGH in the shortest possible time.

Oral HGH releasers?

There are no conclusive evidence to prove that oral HGH releasers are effective to deliver any anti-aging result. This is because HGH, once dissolved in a liquid, becomes very unstable and degrades quickly. Worst if they are displaced on the shelves for a long time.

Our comments

Aging is a disease that can be well-handled if you understood the biological mechanism involved. Anti-aging scientists around the world believe that the human body is capable of healthy living well above 100 years of age. Hence, let us do it right and age graciously into our golden years!

VIVA Corner

Taking sufficient amino acids is of vital importance to allow for various metabolic functions, development ands promote growth. Unfortunately, some amino acids are destroyed during the cooking process and eventually become difficult for us to meet the requirement from our food intake. As such, free amino acids which are available in dietary supplements have been widely used.

Also proteins are large molecules tightly bound together into long chains of amino acids, making the absorption process difficult and taking longer hours to break down to be utilised. The unique characteristic of this VIVA product, Ageguard as compared with other anti-aging products found in the market is its free-form bio-availability nature, meaning the chain of full-range amino acids is nicely broken down for easy absorption and only those with left spin fitting our cell receptors are selected. Hence, its ability to act fast as a natural HGH releaser.

VIVA Ageguard is a proprietary formulation of free form amino acids from soy and rice protein with other unique ingredients. A consistent user over 6 months' period should see enhanced benefits such as youthfulness, increased muscle mass, more burn fat, increased skin thickness and regenerated tissues. Athletes can use it to improve their physique and performance. Down-syndrome kids can try out given their low hormonal levels as there is no side effect administered on a long-term basis.

How to look GREAT after 50

  

“I have trouble chewing.”
“Food just doesn’t taste the same anymore.”
“I can’t get out to go shopping.”
“It’s too much trouble to cook for one person.”
“I’m just not that hungry.”

Sounds familiar? These are a few common reasons why some older people do not eat healthy meals, even though they understand healthy food choice is a smart thing to do to stay well. If you are not already taking a pro-active position, the chances of seriously jeopardising your health increase exponentially as you grow older.  The combined effect of inactivity and poor nutrition accelerates the aging process.

TAKING CARE WITHIN……..

For those in this age category, there are some tips to get you started:

+  Eat many different colors and types of vegetables and fruits.

+  Make sure at least half of your grains are whole grains.

+  Eat only small amounts of solid fats, oils and foods high in sugars.

+  Limit saturated fat (found mostly in foods that come from animals) or trans fats (found in some margarines, shortening, cookies and crackers)

Having Problems with Food?

+  Your sense of taste and smell may change. Is not surprising food consumed may seem to have lost the flavor. This is especially so for those on drug medications for prolonged periods are likely to lose their taste buds and appetite.

+  Foods may no longer be palatable.  Some people may become lactose intolerant, or experience symptoms like stomach pain, gas or diarrhea after eating or drinking food with content of dairy products.

+  Your appetite is reduced naturally.  This is because the digestion process slows down due to lowering metabolic rate.

Note:  For the 50s, the population of friendly bacteria in the digestive tract drops significantly, especially in the large intestine.  The enzymes in the digestive organs like stomach, liver and pancreas are also depleting.  Poor digestion, absorption of nutrients and constipation are inevitable.  Statistics showed colorectal cancer starts to manifest among men in this category.

Do I Need to Drink Water?

+  With age, you may lose some of your sense of thirst.  Drink plenty of liquids like water, juice, milk and soup even if you are not thirsty.

+  Try to drink several large glasses of water each day. Your urine should be pale yellow.  Drink more if it is a bright or dark yellow.

Note:  The number of filtering units or nephrons in the kidneys that helps to remove wastes from the bloodstream is reduced.

What about Fiber?

Fiber is found in most foods from plants such as fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Eating more fiber can help to prevent stomach or intestinal problems, like constipation and helpful in lowering cholesterol and blood sugar.

Here are some tips for adding fiber:

+  Eat cooked dry beans, peas and lentils often.

 +  Leave skins on your fruit and vegetables if possible.

 +  Choose whole fruit over fruit juice.

 +  Eat whole-grain breads and cereals.

 +  Drink plenty of liquids to help fiber move through your intestines.

Should I cut back on Salt?

The body needs sodium, but excessive intake can lead to a rise in blood pressure for some elderly.  Sodium is found in fresh food and aplenty in many canned and prepared foods.

Monitoring the salt intake is important to prevent many health problems.  If you are over age 50, about 2/3 of a teaspoon of table salt equivalent to 1500 milligrams (mg) of sodium is all you need each day. That includes all the sodium in your food and drink, not just the salt you add when cooking or eating. Sea salt is a better choice.

Useful tip: Spices, herbs and lemon juice can add flavor to your food to substitute salt.

What about Fat?

Fat comes readily in food and the fat added during cooking. It is an energy provider (high calories) responsible for hundreds of bodily functions and helps in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.  However, high intake is always associated with high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease.  Excess fat often appears in the stomach of a man and the thighs of a woman.

Lowering fat intake is important for an elderly as their metabolism is declining.  In contrast to carbohydrate, molecules of fat are more complex and require additional energy and time to be converted into energy.

To lower the fat in your diet:

+  Choose cuts of meat, fish or poultry with less fat.

 +  Trim off any extra fat before cooking.

 +  Use low-fat dairy products and salad dressings.

 +  Use non-stick pots and pans, and cook without added fat.

 +  Choose an unsaturated vegetable oil (check the label)

 +  Avoid deep-frying; opt for broil, roast, bake, stir-fry, steam, microwave or boil foods.

TAKING CARE OUTSIDE……..

Makeup and cosmetic surgery give you glamour temporarily.  Would you not prefer more lasting beauty in a natural way?

How the skin condition can change

*  Your skin changes with age.  It becomes thinner, loses fat (collagen) and no longer looks as plump and smooth as it once did.

*  Your veins and bones can be visible.

*  Scratches, cuts or bumps can take longer to heal.

*  Prolonged period of sun-tanning or overexposure to ultra-strong sunlight may lead to wrinkles, dryness, age spots and even cancer.

Distinguishing features of aging skin:

+  Dry Skin and Itching
Many older people have dry skin on their lower legs, elbows and lower arms that are rough and scaly. 

Possible reasons are:



·   Not drinking enough liquids
·   Staying out in the sun
·   Being in very dry air environment
·   Smoking
·   Feeling stressed
·   Losing sweat and oil glands (natural aging process)
.   Health problems such as diabetes or kidney disease
.   Using too much soap, antiperspirant or perfume and taking hot baths do make dry skin worse.
.   Some oral medicines can cause skin allergy.  Scratching for older people with thinner skin can cause bleeding that may lead to infection.

+  Wrinkles

Over time, skin begins to wrinkle.  Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and oxidative stress from the sun reduces skin elasticity.  Even by staying indoor, gravity can cause skin to sag and wrinkle.  Eradicate bad habits like sun-tanning and smoking if you do not want to see too much wrinkled skin.

+  Age Spots

Overexposure to the sun for prolonged periods causes age spots or “liver spots”.  Such flat, brown spots are bigger than freckles, and often show up on areas like the face, hands, arms, back and feet.  They are harmless and can be avoided by applying  sunscreen or sunblock to prevent further sun damage.

How to keep your skin healthy

+  Sunlight can be beneficial in providing Vitamin D to our body and lowering bad cholesterol.  However, limit the time exposure in the sun and avoid it at its strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m, even if it is cloudy skies as its rays can penetrate through clouds.  Is not any better if you are in water.

+  Whilst outdoor, use a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) number of 15 or higher. It is best to choose sunscreens with “broad spectrum” on the label.  Put the sunscreen on 15-30 minutes before you go out, and reapplied about every 2 hours, when engaging in activities in non-shaded places.

+  Wear protective clothing.  A hat with a wide brim can shade your neck, ears, eyes and head. Look for sunglasses that block 99-100% of the sun’s rays. If you have to be in the sun, wear loose, lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and long pants or long skirts.

+  Your skin needs vitamins and antioxidants just like other parts of your body.

More comments

+  Understanding how hormones work in the body to serve you better and keep aging at bay.

+  Do not forget to adhere to your physical exercise routine.  Is never too late to exercise.

+  Antioxidants and other nutritional supplements can definitely help to retard aging and improve skin and health condition.

Your body condition definitely deteriorates with age.  However, there are things you can do to help to reduce aging effects.  Look around and you would be able to find many people aging faster than their metabolic age.  Do not let that happens to you.  Age graciously and be an envy of everyone!

ALWAYS STAY HEALTHY AND YOUTHFUL!!

Source: http://www.nia.nih.gov/HealthInformation/Publications/skin.html

As we AGE

Age-related physical changes are noticeable eg. wrinkles, bulge at the waistline, graying hair and liver spots. What are not visible like gradual loss of bone tissue and the reduced elasticity of blood vessels are not attended to for majority of people till it poses a health challenge.

By knowing how your body changes with age helps to prevent alterations in cell, tissue and organ functions that cause the deterioration and thus aging. Unknowingly, we are taking preventive steps to stop the development of metabolic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.

At 20s…..

* We start off with about 100 billion neurons in our brain. At 20, we hit the peak and can lose up to 10000 per day. If the decline is not arrested, it will affect memory, coordination and brain function.

* In our mid-20s, the skin starts to age naturally.

* Lung capacity starts to decrease after 20. By 40, some are already experiencing breathlessness, partly due to the muscles and rib cage which control breathing stiffening up.

** Unnatural breakdown of body parts can be caused by risk-seeking behaviour especially among hot-headed teenagers such as extreme sports (physical injuries), risky sexual activities and over-consumption of alcohol that can result in premature deaths in worst scenario.

At 30s,

* Bones are constantly regenerated. Children’s bones grow fastest, followed by teens. By 35, bone loss begins as a natural aging process.

* Similarly muscles undergo same renewal process. However by 30, the breakdown is greater than buildup. By 40, the loss is 0.5-2 percent each year. Arrest the fall by doing regular exercises.

* Male hair receding usually starts in the 30s. A hair growing from each follicle usually can last 3 years but no longer so. Gray hairs appear around 35. Half of all men may show some signs of male pattern hair loss by age 40. This happens because DHT, a by-product of testosterone, damage hair follicles in men.

* Quality of male sperm starts to decline by 35 and a third of pregnancies end in miscarriage for those 45 onwards hoping to have babies.

* Women see declining fertility after 35 as the number and quality of eggs in the ovaries start to fall. Also, the lining of the womb may become thinner, making it less favorable for egg to be fertilised as the environment is not conducive for the sperm. At this time, women’ breasts start to sag with lost of tissue and fat.

** Above problems can be aggravated by emotional swings that can end up in depression as this age group tends to have a lot of flux in their lives like career changes and assuming new roles (eg. parents). Biologically, at the peak they experience fast lifestyle with low activity rate and a higher basal metabolic rate, eating inevitably becomes a favorite pastime for most. This is usually the starting point for storage of fats from the excess calories taken in.

At 40s,

* Lesser saliva is produced to help in clearing away bacteria. As such, our teeth are vulnerable to decay. At 40, tissue is lost from gums commonly called receding gums.

* Eyes start blurring and long sightedness happen to most in the mid 40s.

* Men start feeling the effects of a decline in testosterone, typically at about 1% yearly once hitting 30. This can be complicated by more serious conditions like atherosclerosis or metabolic syndrome (see below). 1 in 10 men are affected by erectile dysfunction. This figure increases to 1 in 2 by age 60 and 3 out 4 by age 70.

* The heart is less effective in pumping blood as its muscles weaken and shrink in size. Blood vessels become less elastic while arteries can be clogged with fatty deposits, delivering lesser blood to the heart. Men over 45 and women over 55 are vulnerable to heart attack and high blood pressure.

** Those who ate poorly and neglected their health during their teens may see chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease creeping in at this stage of life. With lower metabolic rate, those who are sedentary tend to gain weight around the waist or bum.

At 50s,

* The number of filtering units or nephrons in the kidneys that help to remove wastes from the bloodstream is reduced.

*  Presbyopia creeps in with the tissue around the eyes losing their tone. It may herald the start of other eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and macular degeneration.

* Liver begins to decrease in size when your muscle mass is on the decline.  Handle medicated drugs and alcohol more carefully.

* Half of men over 50 face prostate enlargement problem because the prostate receives large amount of testosterone feeding the growth of the cells in it. If not treated, it can turn into cancer at the ripe old age of 70-80.

* The protective function of estrogen that helps to keep blood cholesterol levels in check is diminishing when women hit menopause. Even then, they are less at risk than men in suffering from heart attack or stroke.

* The population of friendly bacteria in the digestive tract drops significantly after 55 especially in the large intestine. The enzymes in the digestive organs like stomach, liver, pancreas are also depleting. Poor digestion, absorption of nutrients and constipation are inevitable. Statistics show colorectal cancer most common among men in this category.

At 60s,

* More than half lose hearing at this age due primarily to a thickened eardrum and lost of hair cells.

* The 10000 taste buds scattered on the tongue is halved by now. Chewing becomes harder if you have dentures or dentition. Thus food is not properly broken down before sending down to the stomach.  Lack of stomach acid compounds the problem contributing to a host of other digestive complications.  Further down the colon may show sign of weakness with sluggish movement and decreased muscle tone.

* Voices become quieter and hoarser. The soft tissue in the vocal box (larynx) weakens, affecting the pitch, loudness and quality of the voice. A woman’s voice may become huskier and lower in pitch. A man’s voice can be thinner and higher.

* Loss of bladder control is normal for those hitting 65. Women suffer more due to menopause, as declining estrogen levels make tissue in the urethra (the tube through which urine passes) thinner and weaker, reducing bladder support. Bladder capacity is half that of a 30 year old.

* Men at this age group face an increased risk of depression. Those retiring relinquish their role of breadwinner and worry about household finance. Also bothering them are health-related matters, impending mortality, dependence on others and loss of friends and loved ones.

*  After age 60, your body needs 350 fewer calories to maintain weight and good health.  By eating like you were in your 30s without much physical energy expended, weight increases rapidly.

At 70s,

Liver is the strongest organ that can last so long and starts aging in the later part of our life. By this time, the liver, brain and heart have shrunk by as much as 30% in size and function.

Drastic physical changes like loss of muscle and reduced energy production are partially responsible for decreased perception of cold. Inability to dissipate normal body heat and a decreased sense of thirst make them susceptible to both hypothermia and heatstroke - both can be deadly.


At 80s,

The brain size is further reduced to that of a 3 yo child.

Most of the health challenges mentioned above just get worse with passing years.










More comments

Statistics showed women live longer than men. However, during the aging process, women naturally lose muscle and strength faster than men. For older women who are on a diet, consuming more protein may help preserve muscle mass and foster a better muscle-to-fat body composition. Researchers assessed the women's strength, balance and ability to do physical tasks by using magnetic resonance imaging to gauge the muscle volume of each woman's right thigh and measured the amount of fat around the thigh and within the thigh muscle found that those who consume additional protein lost 3.9% more weight and gained 5.8% more thigh muscle. This led to better balance and improved task performance.

If you have been leading a healthy lifestyle and include supplements in your daily routine, most of the health challenges mentioned above can be mitigated and delayed. When the body is most lacking in one or more nutrients it is unable to function efficiently. Also we should always ensure that sufficient amount of growth hormone is available throughout different stages of our lives in order to maintain the body's metabolism in optimum level and also achieve the desirable health status.

Do not take it lightly that aging contributes to the deteriorating condition as aging itself is a disease.

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