As people get older, the body’s natural ability to cleanse itself tends to be less efficient. So, material toxins and free radicals increase, and their presence triggers the process known as aging. A sequence or progression of events occurs that, if unchecked, leads to most of society’s current health problems. Further, newer research shows that a jump from one stage to another can come about quickly. In other words, aging is not necessarily gradual – it often occurs suddenly. Each one of these events, or stages, can be identified by noticeable physical changes.

1. Lack of energy

Vital energy levels are directly impacted by nutrition and the body’s ability to break down and absorb quality nutrients contained in food. Food that is low in nutritional value, or not broken down properly or poorly absorbed, leaves one feeling tired, sluggish and unrested. Improperly digest and assimilate food leaves it to decay and mold, turning it into toxic substances that pass from the blood into tissues. Undigested substances can become encrusted on intestinal walls, causing further obstruction while the lack of properly absorbed nutrients continues to drain the body’s energy.

2. Accumulation of toxins

Weak digestion, poor assimilation, constipation, or irregular bowel movements are signs that indicate the body is aging faster than it should. As waste accumulates in the digestive system, it might end up overflowing and being improperly stored in other tissues, such as the joints, fat cells, liver, or skin. A bowel movement less than once per day is cause for concern. Toxin overload causes damage at the cellular level.

3. Irritation

Rising levels of toxic material in the body cause irritation both internally and externally. Some warning signs are itchy or irritated skin, rashes, nausea, insomnia, and/or mood swings. These are signals that the body’s elimination pathways are not working properly and are no longer able to completely remove toxins and waste. Minor injuries, like bruises or scratches, that do not heal quickly are another indicator of cellular health that is not optimal.

4. Inflammation

This inflammation stage is marked by the presence of pain or visible swelling, unrelated to eternal injury. Inflammation occurs if there is constant irritation in areas where toxins continue to increase over time. Current research suggests this is associated with most unhealthy conditions.

5. Ulceration

Ulcers occur in central areas or organs of the body where high levels of accumulated material toxins destroy and damage nearby cells and tissues. Increased pain is felt at this stage, as nerves are now exposed as tissues become affected by an ulcer.

6. Hardening of tissue

Hard, inflamed tissue keeps toxins from spreading outside of the ulcerated areas, the body fills in the ulcerated area with scar tissue. This is the last stage where the body still has control of its cells.