Living long, and doing so as healthily as possible, is an important goal for many people. To achieve it, one might focus on eating well and exercising regularly. But is that enough? Emerging evidence suggests that in order to achieve healthy longevity, we have to go deeper - to the level of cellular health. (1)
Mitochondria and Cellular Health
It seems that in every high school biology class, students make a model of a cell and learn the basics of mitochondria: they reside in cells and convert food and oxygen into energy for our bodies. But a deeper dive into mitochondria reveals that as humans age, the number of mitochondria we have in our body declines. Unfortunately, the mitochondria that are left also become less effective. (1)
Fewer mitochondria generating energy, means less stamina and vitality as we age. But this doesn’t only affect a person’s overall health; their cellular health is impacted, too. Cells also need the energy created by mitochondria, and when there’s not enough, things don’t work the way they should. This can eventually lead to health problems such as Alzheimer’s disease, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. (1)
How Free Radicals Affect Cellular Health
Free radicals are another hazard to cellular health. They are unstable, highly reactive molecules that have an unpaired electron. Electrons are unstable when they’re not paired, so they move around the body seeking to stabilize themselves by binding with another electron. In the process, they can cause damage to the DNA, fats, and proteins in cells. This damage can speed up the aging process, negatively impact mitochondria, and contribute to a variety of health issues. Having an overabundance of free radicals in the body is called oxidative stress. (2, 3)
Free radicals can be produced in the body in two different ways: as a result of exposure to toxins or as a byproduct of metabolic processes. Some toxins that can lead to the development of free radicals include: (2)
- tobacco smoke
- air pollution
- ultraviolet radiation
- medical radiation
- radon exposure in the home
- some chemicals and substances, such as asbestos or vinyl chloride
Free radicals can also be produced by normal metabolic processes, in which nutrients are broken down to create energy. This is one factor that causes an increased risk of health issues as people age, even if they have avoided toxin exposure. (2)
Tips to Improve Cellular Health
While it’s not possible to completely halt the cellular changes that come with aging, there are plenty of ways to encourage cellular health by supporting mitochondria and preventing the development of free radicals. Follow these tips to improve your cellular health!
1. Support Mitochondria with Diet
Consuming excessive refined sugars can have a negative effect on mitochondria because they activate the production of free radicals and toxins that make mitochondria less functional. To avoid taxing mitochondria in this way, avoid sweets, sugar-filled drinks, and sources of refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and baked goods. However, continue to eat healthy carbs, like whole fruits and non-starchy vegetables. They are important sources of fiber and other nutrients. (1)
Eating healthy fats and proteins may help to decrease free radicals and even support the production of new mitochondria. Sources of healthy fats include nuts, seeds, avocado, and extra virgin olive oil. Grass-fed beef, organic chicken and eggs, and wild-caught fish are all examples of healthy proteins. (1)
One of the most important ways to support mitochondria through diet is to avoid overeating. Having extra energy in the body from either overeating or underexercising can contribute to oxidative stress. Being careful not to overindulge, or even reasonably restricting calories through methods like intermittent fasting, can help to remove this extra burden on mitochondria and may even lead to the production of new mitochondria. (1)
2. Avoid Environmental Toxins
Exposure to environmental toxins can impair the functionality of mitochondria and lead to the production of free radicals, both of which harm cellular health. Common environmental toxins include: (1, 2)
- tobacco smoke
- pesticides
- heavy metals
- chemicals in household cleaners
- pollution
To limit exposure to environmental toxins, quit smoking and limit time spent around people who smoke, as secondhand smoke also negatively affects mitochondrial function. Thoroughly clean fruits and vegetables, and research “green” alternatives to household cleaners. (1, 2)
3. Increase Antioxidant Intake
It’s possible to combat the damaging effects of free radicals and improve cellular health by increasing antioxidant intake. Antioxidants work by giving an electron to free radicals, neutralizing them and protecting the body from oxidative stress. (2, 3)
Because many phytochemicals in food are antioxidants, it’s possible to increase intake of them through diet. Vitamins A, C, and E are all antioxidants. Green tea, blueberries, blackberries, cherries, plums, and artichokes are all great sources of antioxidants. Additionally, it’s possible to take antioxidant supplements to combat oxidative stress. (1, 3)
4. Use CBDa to Support Cells
Research suggests that cannabidiol may have protective qualities for cellular health. It’s possible that it prevents the buildup of toxins in healthy brain cells. Additionally, cannabidiol may also stop the signalling factors that lead to cell death. (4)
When selecting a CBDa extract to help improve cellular health, it’s important to choose the best. Nesas Beyond Organic CBDa Hemp Extract is nutrient-rich, raw, and scientifically perfected to work on a cellular level, filling in the gaps that are specific to each user’s body and needs. Research has shown Nesas Hemp to be effective in supporting many common ailments including but not limited to:
- reducing stress
- improving focus and mood
- promoting better sleep
- enhancing joint and bone health
- providing support for discomfort
Nesas Beyond Organic CBDa Hemp Extract is made with living hemp and extracted with a unique method that sustains the plant’s natural molecular structure. It also contains vital nutrients, minerals, and vitamins working alongside naturally-occurring CBDa to restore balance in the body and promote relaxation, mood balance, and reduced stress, as well as to promote a healthy cellular response.
Follow these tips to improve cellular health and work toward the goal of healthy longevity!
Want to Learn More?
- What is a Certificate of Analysis for CBD products?
- Why CBDa is Rare?
- How Organic Hemp Oil Benefits Skin
