A major cause of ageing may lie in a substance that becomes increasingly scarce in our bodies as we get older. Scientists have discovered that the decrease in a substance called phosphatidylcholine negatively affects the functioning of the power plants in our cells. These power plants, the mitochondria, produce the energy that our cells need to function properly.
Due to the shortage of phosphatidylcholine, the mitochondria function less well, which can lead to less energy and faster ageing of cells. The remarkable thing is that supplementing this substance in older test organisms improved energy production again. This indicates that some ageing processes could potentially be slowed down or even partially reversed.
This research is important because it provides a new insight into how cells age and what role nutrients play in this process. Phosphatidylcholine is found in certain foods, among other things, and plays an important role in cell structures and communication.
For people who want to age healthily, this discovery shows that cellular health and energy production play a key role. Improving the balance of key substances in the body can contribute to a fitter and more energetic life at an older age.
Source: Original article
