Our Top 10 Longevity Terms
Our Top 10 Longevity Terms
Whether you’re new to the science or deep in the wellness game, here’s the foundational stuff to get the most out of your time here. We’ve got a full Quick Guide if you want all the definitions and details, but these ten are the ones you’ll want to know like the back of your hand.
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Key Terms:
Amino acids: Building blocks of proteins. There are 20 of them, and they link together in chains to form everything from muscle to enzymes. *
ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate): Your body’s rechargeable energy battery. It powers everything from muscle contractions and movement to brain activity. *
DNA/RNA: DNA stores your genetic code; RNA helps turn that code into proteins. Together, they’re your biological instruction manual. *
Enzymes: Proteins that speed up chemical reactions in your body. Without them, reactions would take too long to keep you alive. *
Free Radicals: Unstable molecules with unpaired electrons. They’re natural byproducts of metabolism but can damage cells and DNA if not neutralized. *
Metabolism: All the chemical reactions in your body that convert what you take in (like food and oxygen) into energy, building blocks, or waste. So “metabolizing” something, is your body is deciding to do with it. *
Mitochondria: Convert food into usable energy, literally the “powerhouse of your cells.” They generate most of your ATP, keeping every system running strong. *
NAD+: An essential coenzyme (helper enzyme) that powers your energy production and cellular repair. A major player in aging and longevity research. *
Oxidative Stress: Imbalance of free radicals (no good) and antioxidants (very good). When free radical levels get too high, it speeds up aging and increases disease risk. *
Protein: Not just for muscle, proteins are chains of amino acids used to build and repair tissues, enzymes, hormones, and more. *
For funsies, we’re adding one bonus. Antioxidants are more of a response to oxidative stress, but they’re so essential, it just didn’t feel right to leave them out
11. Antioxidant: Molecules that neutralize free radicals, helping protect your cells from oxidative stress and damage that accelerates aging and disease. *
Our mission at The Balance is to cut through the noise and decode complex science into something you can actually understand. We offer science-backed insight and practical takeaways you can use to feel empowered in your everyday choices. Happy reading!
