Stress is closely linked to the development of age related diseases as well as to the aging process. Stress response refers to a complicated adaptive reaction in the body. Without stress response the body would not be able to survive particularly in emergency situations like infection, injury or immediate danger.
A key factor of stress is that it tends to invoke a rapid mobilization of energy reserves, besides increasing the level of stimulation and fuel to the brain, muscles, heart as well as other organs which are vital for immediate survival. Since stress is a biological overdrive mechanism, it is very important but at the same time it can also wear down the body. In case stress response isn’t strong enough in an emergency situation then the organism tends to suffer a greater level of damage or even dies. Excessive stress response is not a good thing as it can be a damaging force in itself by causing disease and speeding up the aging process. Prolonged stress can raise levels of free radicals, besides speed up the breakdown of proteins, slowing the immune system, as well as promoting the burnout in neurons and so on. This way the is directly or indirectly driven by stress.
Various studies of animals have proved that there is an optimal level of stress response. It is this optimal point which can actually be a key to longevity. As we grow older we slowly tend to lose the ability to maintain an optimal stress response as we become less adaptable to negative stress related forces. This lowering of stress resistance can speed up aging. Thus, stress management as well as optimization of stress response will be a part of any serious anti-aging strategy.