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Endocrine
System
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This
system’s major function is to direct long-term changes in the
activities of other organ systems through the production of hormones.
Overall,
the endocrine system shows relatively few functional changes with age.
The most dramatic exception, however, is the decline in the
concentration of reproductive hormones. In addition, age-related
changes in other tissues affect their abilities to respond to hormonal
stimulation. As a result, most tissues become less responsive to
circulating hormones, even though many hormone concentrations remain
normal.
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Fun
fact:
Levels
of pregnenolone, which is a hormone derived from cholesterol, decreases
with age. In rodents, pregnenolone is the most potent memory enhancer
known. In humans, it has been shown to improve sleep and to enhance
productivity but not to affect mood, strength, cognition, or overall
function. Currently, no evidence supports the use of pregnenolone in
the elderly.
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Because levels
of some important hormones decrease with age, restoring low hormone
levels might seem like a safe and logical way to help reverse some of
the effects of aging. However, any resulting improvement in functional
status might be gained at the expense of reduced longevity. For
example, increased metabolism, which often results from hormone
administration, can lead to tissue damage because of free radical
generation. Therefore, hormonal supplementation is usually limited but
might be a viable method of correcting documented low hormone levels or
relieving symptoms caused by low levels.
Based on
recent studies, exercise can have a positive effect on hormone levels.
The effects exercise has, however, appears to depend on the type,
frequency and duration of the exercises that are being done.
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