Aloe and "Anti-Aging"

Recent studies are demonstrating the remarkable benefits of anti-oxidants such as Vitamins C and E.

The REUTERS News Agency, on the first of November (2001) reports: " Melov said the study, published in the Journal of Neuroscience, showed for the first time that these drugs work in making mammals live longer. We are starting to have a very good understanding of the types of damage that can arise in the aging process," he said. Oxidation is the chemical reaction that causes metals to rust, but in cells, it can damage DNA, leading sometimes to cancer, other diseases and, many scientists believe, to the changes associated with aging. Anti-oxidants include Vitamins C and E.

The mice in Melov's study were genetically engineered to undergo a form of oxidative damage and without drugs only live about a week, allowing researchers to quickly see the results.

Melov explained that the drugs work by zeroing in on so-called free radicals -- toxic molecules produced in every cell in the body that are necessary pollutants in burning energy.

The anti-oxidant compounds move into cells and even into the mitochondria -- the centers of metabolism -- to counter the aging effects wrought by the free radicals.

(Source: "Study: Anti-Aging Drugs Quadruple Life Span of Mice" by Michael Kahn of Reuters, November 1st, 2001, as reported in Aloe Vera is one of the most potent sources of Vitamins E and C. It carries the additional benefit of being one of the only known sources of natural Vitamin B-12 (other sources are animal sources). Will Aloe slow down the aging process? There is no conclusive evidence of this for humans - but the research on anti-oxidants (especially the combinations of anti-oxidants such as Vitamins E and C) is certainly promising.

Aloe Vera offers these vitamins, and over 200 other beneficial vitamins, enzymes, minerals, and compounds. Some brands are better than others (more pure, potent, and fresh), so do your homework before purchasing.