New Research: How Phytonutrients Drive Results in the Younger You BioAge Study
Prompted by the increase in exposure to wildfire smoke, researchers at the University of New Mexico put together this graphical representation of how environmental toxins are known to affect the hallmarks of aging.
The authors argue that the effects of inhaled toxicants mirror the effects of aging – i.e., environmental toxicants create aging stress in the body. These can lead to effects including:
- Vascular and neurological inflammation
- Breakdown of the blood-brain barrier
- Vascular dysfunction via VCAM-1 upregulation
- Reduced learning capability
While it isn’t possible to avoid all known environmental toxins, there are ways that we can reduce our exposure:
Home and Indoor Environment:
- Use of a HEPA air filtration either via whole-house circulation or air purifier units. HEPA filters are also available for vacuum cleaners.
- Use exhaust fans to ventilate when cooking
- Avoid synthetic air fresheners and candles
- Avoid new furniture that has been treated to be stain-resistant or flame-retardant
- Avoid plastic or foam toys for children
- Use natural mattresses (e.g., latex) and bedding (e.g., 100% cotton), check for GOTS or Greenguard GOLD certifications
- Check for sources of lead and take remedial steps if found
In the Kitchen:
- Choose organic foods where possible, or choose selectively using the Environmental Working Group’s Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen guides
- Avoid canned foods
- Wash produce thoroughly
- Avoid high-mercury fish (e.g., tuna, swordfish). We like the guide by the Monterrey Bay Aquarium.
- Don’t microwave foods in plastic, avoid putting hot foods into plastic, and opt for glass storage containers instead, where possible
Water Quality:
- Use a carbon block drinking water filter that removes the most toxins while also retaining beneficial minerals such as calcium and magnesium
- Consider a filter for shower or bath water
Personal Care and Household Products:
- Use EWG’s SkinDeep database to choose products with safer ingredients
- Choose non-toxic cleaners or DIY it with vinegar, baking soda, and castile soap
Finally, breathe! Cleaning up our exposures can be a process but it’s never too late to start nor any change too small to start with.
Full text: Aging, longevity, and the role of environmental stressors: a focus on wildfire smoke and air quality
Avoiding Food Chemicals Just Got a Little Easier
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