Longevity and nutrition

            
            
             From the time man first recognized his own mortality, the quest for immortality has been sought after. The search for the "fountain of youth" began. Now with the American population growing increasingly older, the search has become an interest to many. Magic potions, pills and powders have been created in vain and with hopes of slowing and reversing the aging process. While there is no quick fix and death is inevitable, extending life is obtainable. Nutrition is the key to essential heath and longevity. .
             Why do we age? Science has been pondering over this question for years. Many of the physical changes that we know as "aging" can be traced to accumulated damage caused by compounds called free radicals. (Dolby) Free radicals are electrically charged molecules with an unpaired electron capable of attaching to healthy cells in the body, causing them to lose their structure and function. (Dossey 427).
             What can be done to stop the damage to cells caused by free radicals? The answer is simple: antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that limit free radicals before they attack cells. (Dossey 427) Antioxidants are easily obtained through numerous fruits and vegetables. .
             But increased longevity is not going to be obtained by just simply adding an apple or two to ones diet. Especially when added to the typical American's diet. One third of the average diet is made up of "junk" foods. (Kant 929-936) These types of foods are typically loaded in fat and high in calories, containing little to no essential nutrients. Since they usually take the place of healthier foods, it is harder to get the recommended daily allowance of vitamins and minerals. .
             Vitamins and minerals are essential for optimal health and optimal health is essential for longevity. Vitamins are necessary for normal growth, metabolism and development of the body. They assist in many chemical reactions while nourishing the body. (Dossey 428) Minerals are inorganic trace elements or compounds that work in synergy with other compounds and are essential for human life.