The Kidney/Aging Connection (Western)
How Is The Kidney Connected To Aging?
There is scientific knowledge to back Kidneys governing the bones as well as being the driving force for health in the aging process. Poor Kidney function leads to low calcitriol levels, which are responsible for weak bone density. Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs), regulate cell growth, metabolism, and transformation.
One such FGF cofactor called Klotho is an anti-aging protein that binds to FGF receptors in the Kidneys. A specific FGF called FGF23, together with Vitamin D, Klotho, and PTH, maintains the calcium-phosphate balance for healthy bones. In terms of aging, Klotho knockout mice were shown to have stunted growth in another study. Klotho deficiency has also been shown to be widely present in Chronic Kidney Disease. (1)
The Kidneys are incredibly important in Chinese Medicine because of their relation to aging. As practitioners of Chinese Medicine, we strive to strengthen and balance the Kidneys through acupuncture and herbal medicine so that all other organs can function smoothly as well. Tune in next week to find out which herbs are powerful at boosting Kidney Qi and function.
If you or anyone that you know would like to address signs of aging, an increased difficulty in function, or chronic pain, click HERE to book an appointment with our licensed acupuncturists!
Although traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and Western medicine have evolved on distinct philosophical foundations and reasoning methods, as time progresses there are some commonalities between the two perspectives. Both Eastern and Western Medicine are on the same consensus on the connection between the kidney’s and aging. Click HERE to read our other blog on the Easter perspective on this topic.