Autophagy

Autophagy, which literally means “self-eating” is the natural process of cells to eliminate dispensable components. The unnecessary parts are destroyed and stronger replacements are built. This term was coined by a Belgian biochemist, Christian de Duve in 1963 when he discovered the functions of lysosomes, organelles which manage waste disposal of cells. As it is a response to stress, autophagy has been advocated as a great way to boost one’s health.

For instance, working out may initially damage some muscle tissues but better and stronger muscle tissue will replace them afterwards. Also, intermittent fasting has been found out to boost autophagy as well as stimulate the growth hormone.