Ageing is the result of a build-up of damage in our bodies' cells
Ageing is the result of a build-up of damage in our bodies' cells. It takes a long time for the damage to get to a level where it may harm us, but eventually we can no longer overlook it.
The protein fibres keeping our skin and artery walls elastic go through changes that lead to loss of that vital flexibility. The DNA strands inside our cells get damaged, too. Ultimately, the cells' energy production systems fail.
An important type of damage is oxidisation, the result of attacks by free radicals. Oxidisation rusts metal, makes fat go rancid and causes browning of peeled fruits and vegetables. It also helps to make us age.
Our bodies have evolved powerful antioxidant enzymes to guard cells against free radicals, but these defences aren't 100 per cent.
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