Anti Aging, Telomeres and Sleep

Will a Fawcett Mattress work as a magical anti aging device?

We no...! But, proper sleep may be scientifically linked to anti aging.

We were interested in the relationship between sleep and anti aging. So we explored.

What we found was interesting…at least to us. Telomeres and Sleep are directly related.

Disclaimer. We’re not physicians or nutrition experts. We’re mattress makers. (Darn good ones mind you). But we are not qualified to give specific advice about any changes to your diet or exercise habits. Speak to your doctor for before changing any of your routines!

First, we need to understand a little bit about genetics in order to really understand how sleep may affect the way we age.

Here’s the “Coles Notes” version from Utah University; If you're really interested in getting into the topic of Genetics, check this link. 

“Inside the nucleus of a cell, our genes are arranged along twisted, double-stranded molecules of DNA called chromosomes. 

At the ends of the chromosomes are stretches of DNA called telomeres, which protect our genetic data, make it possible for cells to divide, and hold some secrets to how we age and get cancer.

Telomeres have been compared with the plastic tips on shoelaces, because they keep chromosome ends from fraying and sticking to each other, which would destroy or scramble an organism’s genetic information.

Yet, each time a cell divides, the telomeres get shorter. When they get too short, the cell can no longer divide; it becomes inactive or “senescent” or it dies. This shortening process is associated with aging, cancer, and a higher risk of death. So telomeres also have been compared with a bomb fuse.”

It’s in the Length of the Telomeres. Remember, cells last longer with longer telomeres = Anti aging.

So, now that we’re virtual genetic experts…ahem…it seems that the research says the “length of your telomeres” is what really is important. So how do we keep our telomeres long? 

One way is through a good diet. A diet oriented towards low fat foods and plant based diet is important.

• Flax. Specifically the Omega 3 fats found in Flax.
  
  
• Berries. For their natural anti oxidant qualities.
  
  
• Mushrooms. Because of the good quality vitamin D found in them.
  
  
• Oats. Prevents insulin resistance which can shorten and damage telomeres.
  
  
• Spinach. Rich in fiber, antioxidants & folate.

Research out of Brigham Young University says that we may be able to slow down the aging process as long as we’re willing to do some high levels of exercise. What’s a high level? 30 – 40 minutes of jogging, 5 days a week.

Individuals who engaged in high levels of exercise, had telomeres that were significantly longer (good!) than those who exercised moderately, or those who were sedentary.”

On a cellular level, this gave the avid exercise group, an age advantage of on average, 9 years.  Just because you’re 40, doesn’t mean you’re 40 biologically.

So we now understand that our diet and proper exercise are important to maximizing the length of our telomeres. Which, in turn, research indicates – is important to anti aging benefits on a cellular level.

So what about sleep? Does it actually have an effect on telomere length? Research seems to say yes. Both the quality and length of sleep.

People who get 7 hours or more of sleep have significantly longer telomeres than those who receive 5 hours a night.

So, that in a layman’s nutshell is it. Eat right, get plenty of exercise, and consistent good quality sleep. Hey, wait a minute …this isn’t all new information. I think we’ve heard that before. 

We can’t guarantee that a Fawcett Mattress will help keep your telomeres long and healthy. 

But, if we can help you sleep better, then maybe? It sounds like a quality Mattress could help. 

We can say that our clients tell the world they love our Fawcett Mattresses.

Our Sombrio is the ticket for a low profile natural latex core mattress. The Goldstream an exceptionally well priced inner spring mattress with 2 inches of plush natural latex on the top. Nothing but the best and most luxurious? Check out our Galiano.