Video Title: Scientists Are Discovering a New Driver of Aging
Channel: Siim Land
Speakers: Siim Land
Duration: 00:08:47
Overview
This video discusses circadian clock dysfunction as a potential 13th hallmark of aging. Siim Land explains what circadian rhythms are, how their disruption contributes to aging, and provides actionable strategies to improve circadian health.
Key takeaways
Circadian Rhythms and Aging: Circadian rhythms are the body's natural 24-hour cycles that regulate various bodily functions. Aging leads to a blunting of these rhythms, characterized by decreased fluctuations in hormones like cortisol and melatonin, often referred to as "chronic jet lag syndrome."
Consequences of Circadian Disruption: Disrupted circadian rhythms are linked to poorer sleep, inflammation, metabolic issues, lower energy levels, increased DNA damage, and a higher risk of chronic diseases such as neurodegeneration, cancer, diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and heart disease.
Three Hallmarks of Circadian Rhythms: The key aspects of circadian rhythms are oscillation (hormonal fluctuations), free-running (persistence of the rhythm under constant conditions), and entrainment (response to environmental cues like light, movement, and food). All of these degrade with age.
Strategies for Improvement: To fix circadian rhythm issues, one should focus on bright light exposure upon waking, consider morning caffeine intake, exercise earlier in the day, block artificial blue light at night, maintain a consistent sleep and meal schedule, and potentially consider melatonin supplementation.
The Role of NAD: NAD, a crucial co-enzyme, plays a role in maintaining circadian clock function. Reduced NAD levels during aging coincide with circadian disruption, creating a vicious cycle. Increasing NAD through methods like calorie restriction, time-restricted eating, exercise, and dietary polyphenols can help reverse this degradation.
