How to Avoid the Main Causes of Skin Ageing

 

Age isn’t the only factor that can affect how old your skin looks. Skin ageing is down to lots of different factors and how you look after yourself in your 20s could influence your appearance, making it important to think about wellness from a young age if you want to keep looking youthful.

Sunny side

The sun can be damaging because UV rays affect the way that collagen in your skin is produced. This is the substance that gives your face muscle tone and a lot of premature ageing is down to the sun’s rays. You can protect yourself from the damaging effects of UV by making sure you wear lotions that contain a SPF. Putting it on all exposed areas, especially around the delicate eye area can cut your sun exposure, as can staying out of direct sunlight from 10a.m – 3p.m.

Think healthy

Smoking, drinking and lack of exercise can affect our skin, as well as our general wellbeing. The dehydrating effect of alcohol can make lines seem deeper and smoking introduces toxins into our body that can disrupt circulation so skin appears dull. Getting rid of or reducing vices and introducing a healthy diet can make you look and feel great.

Sleep well

Sleep has an anti-ageing, rejuvenating effect on our bodies and that includes skin. Regular, undisturbed sleep for at least seven to eight hours is an effective way to get rid of dark circles, eye bags and a general tired appearance. Invest in ear plugs, and sleeping masks if you need to and blackout blinds can stop you waking early.

Don’t stress

Stresses and strains can overload your system by draining you of energy. Skin can become haggard and lose its vitality as you try to cope with stressful events. If you regularly feel affected by these kinds of events then taking time out to do calming activities – like yoga and meditation – can help you feel more relaxed and give you back your zest, as well as protecting your skin.

Categories: affect, ageing, feel, skin, skin ageing, sleep

Easy Ways to Fight Wrinkles

 

However young you may feel on the inside, wrinkles may tell another story, although there’s some simple things you can do to reduce lines on your face so your skin reflects your inner wellness.

Make-up

 

There are lots of products on the market designed for different skins types, even those that are beginning to show the effects of time. Browse the many products available to find those that suit your skin type. Mature women may benefit more from creamy make-up that doesn’t gather in wrinkles like powdery foundations, which can draw attention to lines.

Get Moisturising

 

Dry skin can look papery and wrinkled, so invest in a good moisturiser and apply it as often as needed. To target wrinkles even more, opt for creams and lotions with natural ingredients that are designed for mature skin. Nutrients like aloe vera and winter cherry extract have anti-ageing effects and can benefit all skin types.

Sleepy Head

One of the simplest ways to fight wrinkles and protect wellbeing is to sleep well and for about eight hours a night. This gives your body the chance to heal itself and has a freshening effect on your skin by reducing dark circles. Sleep can also be used to fight stress, so have some early nights if you’re been feeling anxious in the daytime.

Yes to SPF

UV rays can be damaging because they quickly penetrate the skin and may lead to premature ageing if you go out in direct sunlight without SPF on. To stay youthful get some sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, although some experts recommend SPF 30 or above. Hats and clothing that keeps you covered can also guard against the sun’s rays.

Food and Drink

What you put in your body to reduce wrinkles is just as important as what you put on your body! So try and opt for healthy dishes and make meals that are packed with nutrients that can have anti-ageing effects. Don’t forget to stay hydrated on the inside as this will keep your skin hydrated on the outside.

Categories: ageing, ageing effects, anti ageing, body, Effects, fight wrinkles, skin, Wrinkles

Tea, Stretch, Lips, Cream: Four Night Time Anti-Ageing Steps

 

 

You may not realise this, but just before bed is the perfect time to take care of your wellbeing, especially in terms of your anti-ageing wellness. This is the time when your body starts replenishing itself and begins to relax, and so any good habits you implement will be more effective at night. Here at the four best rituals you can incorporate into your bedtime routine, in order to look your absolute best.

 

1. Switch to decaf. Why does the evening seem to be the time for drinking stimulants? It makes absolutely no sense; drinking caffeine or more than a couple of alcoholic beverages in the evening will keep you awake, which will cause you to lose out on restorative sleep time. Your evening coffee also does damage to your skin health, as it dehydrates your skin and increases the appearance of wrinkles. If you crave a hot drink before bed, drink decaf tea. However, your best option is plain-old ice water.

 

2. Stretch. If you start doing some gentle stretching before bed, in a few weeks time you’ll start to see amazing results. Stretching lengthens your muscles, meaning that you’ll have a leaner, more toned appearance in addition to being more limber. Plus, simple, light stretching helps you to relax and get a good night’s sleep – which is essential for looking young and fresh come morning.

 

3. Apply an anti-ageing moisturiser and eye cream. The active ingredients in anti-ageing products often don’t react well with sunlight, and so it’s better to apply them at night. Make sure your product contains retinol, as this is one of the only anti-ageing ingredients that have been scientifically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and create smoother skin. As the skin around your eyes is extremely delicate, you’ll also need an to layer an eye cream on top of your moisturiser for extra protection and hydration.

 

4. Soften your lips. If you’re going to have younger, smoother skin and a lean and limber body, you may as well have soft, kissable lips to match. When you’re brushing your teeth before bed, run your toothbrush lightly back and forth across your upper and lower lips a few times. This will help to exfoliate your lips and get rid of any dry, flaky skin. After a few seconds of that, apply a softening lip balm and you will wake up with noticeably nicer lips.

 

Categories: ageing, anti ageing, decaf tea, Eye Cream, lips, nbsp, Night Cream, skin, smoother skin, Stretching, time

Anti-Ageing Foods To Add To Your Diet Now

We all know by now that antioxidants are fantastic in helping create an inner anti-ageing regime, to prime us for a healthier, longer and better looking life – both inside and outside. But do you know where to get these antioxidants from? There are certain foods which are better than others in packing our diets with these age fighters – here is a list of the best ingredients to add to your diet and why you should be eating more of them.

Cruciferous Vegetables and Leafy Greens

You have probably been told to eat your greens by your parents since you were a child, but there’s a good reason for this. These vegetables are loaded with nutrients, from calcium and folate to vitamin C, to support bone health, protect against cognitive decline and help to prevent eye problems which are associated with age. More significantly, studies show that they can also provide anti-cancer properties. Vegetables such as cabbage, spinach, broccoli, kale and Swiss chard all count towards.

Apricots

A peach-like fruit, the apricot may seem humble but you may be surprised to learn that it’s packed with anti-ageing ingredients. The orange colour they possess comes from carotenoids, which are powerful antioxidants which prevent heart disease, lower bad cholesterol and protect against cancer. The carotenoid beta-carotene can be converted by the body into vitamin A to contribute towards healthy eyes, skin and hair.

Berries

Berries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants of any fruits, with kale and spinach being the only vegetables to match berries in terms of antioxidant levels. Fresh berries have phytochemicals and colour pigments, known as anthocyanins, which have been shown to lower the risk of certain cancers, improve memory function and contribute towards healthy ageing. They also contain quercetin, a flavonol which is both an antioxidant and anti-carcinogen, to protect against heart disease and certain cancers.

Olive Oil

Mediterranean diets use a lot of olive oil, which contains health-boosting omega-3 fatty acids. These not only keep your heart healthy and reduce inflammation, but they also improve your skin circulation and digestion, and lower your cholesterol. All of these factors contribute towards a longer and healthier life.

Wild Alaskan Salmon

Staying on the side of omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is rich in these healthy oils which offers a health boost. Selenium levels are high in salmon which protects healthy skin cells by fighting free radicals, which age the skin. Salmon also helps to protect the function of the thyroid, which keeps your weight in check and boosts your overall wellbeing.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are something found in foods so regularly we almost forget the properties they possess. But did you know that they can help to protect against sunburn? Studies show that people who ate tomatoes mixed with olive oil each day had 40 per cent less sunburn than those who consumed just olive oil. This is because tomatoes have lycopene in them, which protects the skin against oxidation that can lead to wrinkles and sun damages.

Raw Almonds

Almonds are loaded with vitamin E, which can be difficult to get from your diet. One small handful is enough to give you half of your daily dose, and this nutrient is great for protecting against ageing. It helps to protect the skin, as well as improving agility and speed as we age.

Avocado

Put them on salads, in sandwiches or as a topping to Mexican cuisine, but be sure to get them into your diet – avocados are packed with healthy fats and are also very high in vitamin E. The result? Shiny hair, glowing skin and a wrinkle-free complexion.

Categories: ageing, anti, anti ageing, anti-ageing, fatty acids, Food, Healthy, heart disease, nutrients, olive oil, Protect, skin

Why Are Older People Happier Than You?

They say that youth is wasted on the young, and it’s not hard to see why. Yes, you’ve got the world ahead of you and endless opportunities with none of the responsibilities, but it’s only as you age that you realise what you had. Young people don’t know what the future holds. They can’t predict that they’ll get a job, fall in love or find some sort of purpose, even though most people do. Still, your emotional health isn’t in torment forever; the restlessness of youth gives way to contentedness in older age.

 

According to a recent study by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), United Healthcare, and USA Today, baby boomers and seniors remain optimistic that the best years of their lives are ahead of them. This is just one study amongst many that show a profound link between ageing and your emotional wellbeing. Richard Birkel, who leads NCOA’s Centre for Healthy Ageing, explains that the generation interviewed for the study had seen parts of the Great Depession and World War II, which helped to, weirdly, make them more positive. ‘People put things into perspective,’ Birkel says. ‘If you got through those two events in tact, I would have some confidence too that I was able to adjust to pretty much anything.’

 

Laura Carstensen, director of the Stanford Centre on Longevity, asserts, ‘It’s what’s known as “the paradox of ageing.” There’s a lot of tough things that come with ageing, and people still report that they’re doing fine.’ When you age, your emotional wellness benefits from a “linear decrease” in negative emotions, such as anger and stress, as well as a greater appreciation for life, says Carstensen, ‘so people are better off emotionally—there’s no question there.’ Some researchers map happiness as a “U-shape” that curves down and up over the course of your life. You start of as a kid with no worries, progress to an adult with plenty of responsibilities to stress over, and then after the age of 50 you realise that life is for savouring the precious moments rather than fretting over the opportunities you missed.

 

Still, why wait until your golden years to attain the wisdom for wellbeing? There are a number of tactics you can implement to boost your overall life satisfaction:

 

1. Positive acts: According to psychology professor Sonja Lyubomirsky, author of The How of Happiness, research shows that writing letters of gratitude, counting your blessings, performing acts of kindness, and meditating produce positive emotions. She also advises continuous adaptation. This means that if you make a positive change, such as walking to work, you can sustain your satisfaction by taking different routes.

 

2. Live in the moment: If – or I should say when – you’re faced with the daily hassles of life, Carstensen suggests you gather perspective by asking yourself, ‘Is this going to matter on the last day of your life?’

 

3. Look forward to what’s in store: Carstensen explains, ‘There’s something about being at an age where you know what you’ve been dealt in life—and it’s OK—and you’ve found your love, and you’ve not only found your love, but you have your children and grandchildren.’ She notes that this satisfaction is ‘richer and deeper and more complex than the emotions that a 12-year-old or a 20-year-old can ever imagine.’ She adds, ‘The paradox of ageing is that realising you don’t have all the time left in the world doesn’t make you sad and miserable; it makes you live in the moment and be appreciative of the day. That’s the secret to happiness.’

Categories: ageing, life, Live in the moment, nbsp, older people, people, positive, Positive Acts

Don’t Go Down Without a Fight: Combating the Ageing Process

Ageing is an inevitable process, but that doesn’t mean you have to go down without a fight! It’s never too early or too late to start taking care of your anti-ageing wellness, and, luckily, there are several steps and products that you can use.

 

1. Alternative Treatments: Although alternative treatments are by no means a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise programme, they can help you to feel your best, which encourages you to take better care of your wellbeing. A better term would be “complementary wellness” rather than “alternative,” as these treatments should be used in partnership with your healthy lifestyle. Start off with a good overall system cleansing treatment, as this can get rid of any toxins that may be dragging you down. This lays the groundwork for other treatments, such as acupuncture and hypnosis. If you, as many of us do, suffer from more aches and pains as you age, acupuncture and hypnosis can be a great substitute for using prescription drugs, with none of the associated side effects.

 

2. Your Look-Young Diet: To fight off the effects of ageing, as well as disease, you need plenty of antioxidants, fibre and vitamins. For this you can’t go wrong with fruits and vegetables, but nuts, cereals and spices are also excellent choices for a little antioxidant power. Specifically, you’re looking at:

 

• Vegetables – Kale, red cabbage, peppers, beets, broccoli, chilli pepper, artichoke


• Fruits – Berries, kiwi, pineapple, orange, plum, grapefruit, pomegranate


• Nuts – Pecans, peanuts, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, walnuts


• Cereal – Barley, corn, oats, millet


• Spices – Oregano, cinnamon, turmeric, cloves

 

In addition to this, or, should I say, perhaps more importantly than this, you need to drink a lot of water. The big guy upstairs certainly knew what he was doing when he created helpful H20, as water has monumental wellness benefits. Aside from looking young, drinking lots of water throughout the day can help you lose weight, energise your muscles, aid your bowel function and generally help you to feel better – not bad for something you get out the tap for free.

 

3. Don’t Stray into Temptation: Not only does alcohol and smoking have a disastrous impact on your health, it basically leaves you looking rubbish. This is because indulging in both of these vices significantly dries out your skin, which leads to premature wrinkling. Plus, as we’ve previously covered, your body needs plenty of nutrients to stay young and healthy, but smoking and drinking heavily robs you of these much-needed nutrients, as can some prescription medications. You should avoid alcohol and smoking but you shouldn’t come of the meds if you doctor doesn’t advise it. If you are on medications, make sure to drink plenty of water and try some anti-ageing skin products to combat the skin-drying effects.

 

4. Soak in the Great Outdoors: Getting outside into the fresh air and sun does wonders for your anti-ageing wellness – as long as you do so safely. I’m not saying you should sit outside until you look like an extra from TOWIE, as this will have the opposite you’re looking for. However, while too much sun exposure can have you looking more wrinkly than Yoda, a healthy dose of sunlight can provide some natural vitamin D to your body and mind, which is vital for good health. If you spend more than 15 minutes in the summer sun, or 40 minutes outside in winter, whack on some sun cream, or even sun block. It may not seem necessary in this country, but wearing sun cream every day can be the best thing you do for your anti-ageing wellness.

 

Categories: ageing, ageing wellness, alternative treatments, anti ageing, effects nbsp, nbsp, Sun Cream, Vices, Vitamin D, Water, Wellness

Could Stress be Causing Your Skin to Age Faster?

How your skin looks and how healthy it is is directly connected to your stress levels. According to experts, research has proven that the stress hormone cortisol is responsible for breaking down collagen and causing inflammation when you’re stressed, meaning that you could be in lined for flare ups of adult acne, rosacea and psoriasis. And, of course, you’ll also be more at risk of premature lines and wrinkles. It isn’t just a coincidence that when you’re stressed you’re more prone to breakouts. Dermatologists regularly see patients who experience stress-related spots, wrinkles and rashes – it can even aggravate infectious diseases such as herpes and shingles. If you suffer from hives or eczema, this can also be made worse in times of extreme stress. The vicious cycle of itching and rubbing, which then makes the condition worse, can get particularly bad during this time, leading to the skin thickening which perpetuates the problem. Conditions which are made worse by stress range from acne which is picked and made worse by a nervous patients to more severe problems, such as prurigo nodularis – this is an intractable condition which involves a relentless itch and chronic picking or itching of the skin. The more stressed you are, the worse you make the problem, in turn making you more stressed – the cycle is perpetual.

 

The relationship between the feeling of itching and the reflex to scratch at it is obvious – mention lice or scabies to someone and they immediately feel the need to scratch at their skin. However, researchers are still unsure why and how stress can cause itching. There are obviously genetic factors which influence how prone we are to stress-related skin disorders, as our hormones play a big role, but the impact of stress determines far more than was once thought. Stress is more likely to increase the levels of natural chemicals in the skin and blood vessels, which could increase the redness and blood flow in that area. This leads to common problems such as rosacea. Stress has also been proven to affect the immune system, which can often make people more susceptible to infectious diseases.

Finding ways to manage your stress levels is the best way to calm your skin and reduce the levels of cortisol in the body. Stress not only takes its toll on your skin but also your mind and other areas of your body, such as your heart. Try to find the source of your stress – this will often determine how you deal with it. For example, if your stress is being caused by your job then you know that something here needs to change, be it your hours or the job itself. Talk to friends and family and seek their support – they may be able to calm you down and help you to see the bigger picture. Relaxing activities such as yoga or Pilates may help, and will also be good for your body overall. Or simply taking some time out of an evening to relax with a warm bath or reading a book may be all you need to lower your stress levels. Try to maintain healthy skin habits as well, such as an effective cleanse, tone and moisturising routine to keep your skin clear and glowing. If you’re worried about your skin, or it doesn’t seem to be improving with your lifestyle changes, try speaking to a dermatologist who may be able to help you get to the root of the problem.

Categories: ageing, infectious diseases, itching, levels, skin, skincare, Stress, Stress Levels, stress related, worse

Hollywood’s Healthy Agers: Could You Learn from These Stars?

Hollywood isn’t too kind to women, especially when it comes to their age. So many actresses and celebs go through all kinds of treatments and procedures in the name of satisfying Hollywood’s obsession with youth, but there are a few women who defy this ridiculous expectation, take care of their wellbeing and look damn good doing it! Let’s celebrate those women in Tinseltown who have got the right idea about anti-ageing wellness.

 

1. Susan Sarandon: At 65, Sarandon’s secret to ageing could be having a relationship with a young man. In March, following two years of rumours, the Alfie star confirmed her relationship with her much younger business partner, Jonathan Bricklin, 34. Whatever she’s doing, it’s working for her. Susan, we salute you.

 

2. Meryl Streep: Not only has she won three Oscars and been nominated for 14 more, but Meryl Streep doesn’t appear to be giving up her leading lady status any time soon, and we couldn’t be happier. The star of The Iron Lady, Sophie’s Choice, and The Devil Wears Prada – to name but a few – appeared on the cover of Vogue for the first time at the age of 62, declaring herself the “oldest person” to do so. Before that, she spoke of her starring role as the love interest of Alec Baldwin AND Steve Martin in It’s Complicated, joking to Vanity Fair, ‘I’m 60, and I’m playing the romantic lead! Bette Davis is rolling over in her grave!’

 

3. Julianne Moore: There are some women who seem to get better with age, and that’s certainly true of Julianne Moore. Plus, the 51-year-old star of The Kids are Alright has learned to accept the face and body she’s been given. ‘I don’t love my freckles,’ she admitted in a 2010 interview. ‘I’d really rather not have them, but there’s nothing I can do.’

 

4. Jamie Lee Curtis: Although she’s openly admitted to having cosmetic surgery, Jamie Lee Curtis still makes this list because she’s also been straightforward about ageing, posing for a magazine without makeup, clothes and, worse, Photoshop. Speaking about getting older, the Freaky Friday 53-year-old commented, ‘I feel much more authentic. I’m not saying I’m a spiritually perfect person. I’m flawed and contradictory and fraught in many areas. But I’m better. I’m growing, and that’s all I really want.’

 

5. Diane Keaton: As you’ve seen from her adverts for L’Oreal anti-ageing beauty products, Diane Keaton looks great for someone approaching 64. Like Meryl Streep, Diane Keaton continues to find work on the big screen these days, and says she feels much better than she did in her Annie Hall days. ‘I feel much more alive,’ she noted in a 2006 interview. ‘When you’re younger, you have a tendency to be relieved by fantasies. But now the drama of real life comes charging in.’

 

6. Michelle Pfeiffer: She may have been a super-hot Catwoman in Batman Returns, but Michelle Pfeiffer continues to look amazing at 54, and has a great attitude to the ageing process. ‘Honestly, there’s certainly a mourning that takes place [to getting older]’ she admits. ‘I mourn the young girl, but I think that what replaces that is a kind of a liberation, sort of letting go of having to hold on to that. Everyone knows you’re 50. So you don’t have to worry about not trying to look 50. And then it becomes, “Hey, she looks good for her age.”’

 

7. Helen Mirren: Dame Helen, 67, recently beat out Jennifer Lopez, Pippa Middleton and Elle “The Body” MacPherson for a L.A. Fitness poll on female celebrity with the best body. For the Oscar-winning actress, a healthy dose of humour could well be the key to ageing gracefully, as she recently revealed that she sucked in her stomach the day she accepted her award from L.A. Fitness. ‘It was a beautiful thing that these fitness people did, I have to say,’ she said. ‘I think it was recognition of the fact that you don’t have to be perfect.’

Categories: ageing, anti ageing, Diane Keaton, Helen Mirren, jamie lee, julianne moore, lee curtis, Meryl Streep, michelle pfeiffer, nbsp

The Libido Lowerers: What’s Dampening Your Sex Drive?

Everyone wants a healthy sex life, but a stalled libido can get in the way of your sexual health and even have an impact on your overall wellbeing. The underlying causes of reduced sex drive can be varied, so you don’t have any idea what’s affecting your wellness – and this can be very unnerving. Because of this, if you have a faltering libido often, you can be tempted to suffer in silence. However, a little information can go a long way toward providing a solution, and the reality is that many causes are treatable. So, what possible causes are dampening your burning passion?

 

1. Ageing: As you age, your sex drive is no longer critical for reproduction and – as a result – it wanes. For men, your testosterone will likely peak in your late teens, and then slowly decline at a rate of about 1% per year – although you’ll probably be in the mood for sex way into your 60s. For women, however, the balance of your hormones – progesterone, oestrogen and testosterone – can become upset more suddenly around the age of 35-40, as this marks the beginning of perimenopause (or the period of time in which your body prepares for menopause). As your body is lower in oestrogen, your vaginal tissue will become less healthy, making sex more painful. For this problem, lubricating creams or gels can help, while trying new positions is recommended if your aching joints are making sex less fun.

 

2. Exercise: Generally speaking, a healthy body means a healthy sex life. However, sex is a physical activity and, as such, carries certain risks. Vigorous sex can be taxing on your heart and a host of muscle groups – particularly your lower back – which can put you off having sex in the future. Plus, if you exercise often outside of the bedroom, you may be bringing aches and pains to bed that can dull your sex drive.

 

3. Excess weight: There’s a famous story in which rotund Irish playwright Brendan Behan reportedly turned down an equally large woman’s passionate advances because – even though he’d would have liked to accept her offer, he was ‘afraid our equators would prevent conjugation.’ However, being overweight doesn’t just make sex difficult; it can also put a serious damper on your libido. If the physical assertion involved in sex makes your heart too busy trying to push blood through pounds of excess adipose tissue, it won’t be able to deliver an adequate supply to your sexual organs, which is a key factor involved in arousal. Plus, there’s a link between excess weight and other, libido-lowering conditions, such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. If you are overweight, improving your diet can help with all of the above, as well as improving your body image and, as a result, your sexual confidence.

 

4. Tiredness: At the end of a long, busy day, you hardly feel in the mood to get active between the sheets. Tiredness takes its toll on your entire body, causing you to operate at less than 100%. Not getting enough sleep has a direct impact on your body’s production of hormones and this, in turn, influences your sex drive. Simply put; feeling sluggish doesn’t often translate into feeling sexy. If you feel tired all of the time, you may have an underlying medical condition in need of treatment. Chronic insomnia, chronic fatigue syndrome and sleep apnoea can all be as deceptive as they are debilitating, and often require medical attention. However, if you’re merely run-down, some light exercise can give you more energy, as well as avoiding drinking alcohol close to bedtime.

Categories: ageing, body, decreased libido, drive, excess weight, Healthy, healthy sex, libido, nbsp, Overweight, Sex Drive, sex life

How age Changes Our Minds and Bodies

It’s common knowledge that if there is one aspect of your life will inevitably and irrevocably change your body, it is ageing.  We are all aware of aged or ageing relatives and the way that they have been changed by their battles with time. We naturally think of older people being more vulnerable to illness and disease, as well as being generally more fragile than they were when they were young. And it may well even be true that we place too much of an emphasis on cliché when we think of the old.

 

For so many people the first image that pops into their head when they think of old people in the wrinkled, dour old man with politically incorrect views and an aversion to change. They’re bad with technology, slow on the uptake and completely unwilling to change. But of course this is just the sort of stereotype that pigeonholes our opinions. So what is the truth of the matter? Let’s have a look at some scientifically valid examples of the way ageing actually changes us.

 

With regards to the belief in the rather right-wing-leaning opinions of the old, it seems that this might actually be more bluster than reality. According to one survey of more than 46,000 Americans taken between 1972 and 2004, adults’ attitudes became more liberal regarding their thoughts on politics, economics, gender, religion and even race and sexuality issues as they got older. While the survey did not look at the patterns of individuals, so we can’t tell whether conservative people specifically became more liberal as they aged, it was clear from the analysis that as people aged they were more likely to have a more tolerant attitude.

 

It also seems that it’s not only what’s on the outside physically that changes within our bodies, it is also our cells. Specifically we know that stem cells age just in the same way that other cells do. Stem cells are often thought of as being able to combat ageing as they replenish old or damaged cells, but it seems that they also feel the effects of the wear and tear of ageing. Research published in 2007 argues that stem cells’ regenerative abilities declines as you get older.

 

Another study showed that as we age we seem to naturally need less sleep – or at least this is one way of looking at the analysis that was presented. A study looked at the sleeping patterns of more than 100 healthy adults and allowed them eight hours of being in bed. The oldest group, who were aged from 66 to 83 slept for around 20 minutes less than people in middle age, consisting of those who were 40 to 55. The middle agers, in turn, slept 23 minutes less than the youngest group who were aged 20 to 30.

 

Becoming distracted more easily also appears to be a problem for older adults than it is for their younger counterparts. It seems to be true that as we age we find it more difficult to tune out the things going on around us and focus on just one thing at a time.

 

But perhaps the most predictable and common sign of ageing is certainly backed up by medical knowledge. We know very well that looking at the skin can be a very quick and easy way to ascertain if someone is ageing. It seems that this is partially down to the outer layer of the skin – known as the epidermis – thinning as we get older. This combines with the fact that the skin becomes less supple as the years mount up.

Categories: aged, ageing, cells, mind, nbsp, people, sleep, stem cells

Chicory and Ostrich: Anti-Ageing Foods You’ve Never Heard Of

From the day we arrived on the planet, we’ve been trying to stay here as long as possible. Sure, you want to look and feel younger, but the pursuit of the fountain of youth also applies to other areas of your wellbeing; preventing age-related diseases. One way to get your wellness in shape is through your diet, and so many of us turn to well-known anti-ageing foods like blueberries and dark leafy greens. However, there are some less familiar foods that can help you delay the ageing process, so let us clue you in on these secret anti-agers.

 

Chicory: You may not have heard of chicory, but, trust us on this, it’s an anti-ageing food that you need to know about. You can use the pale yellow leaves in salads, or else mix dried chicory roots in with your herbal coffees. The reason why chicory is so amazing is that it contains more vitamin A and beta carotene than any other salad green, which can help to boost your immune system and protect your eyes against age-related problems. Plus, chicory provides insulin, which may be instrumental in preventing the formation of cancer tumours.

 

Ostrich Meat: While you may not find this in your local corner shop, it’s worth seeking out ostrich meat the next time you get a craving for a juicy steak. While having all the glorious taste of red meat, ostrich contains all the benefits of white meat – being a great source of iron, zinc and selenium. Plus, it’s lower in saturated fat than chicken.

 

Tea: Drinking a cup of tea doesn’t only get you going in the morning or provide the perfect break-time beverage; it also slows down the ageing process and makes you feel incredible – as any Brit will attest to. Studies have shown that there is eight to ten times more polyphenols in tea than there are in fruits and vegetables. These antioxidants fight the good fight against the cell-damaging free radicals in your body that promote the ageing process. If that wasn’t enough, tea may help to rev your metabolism, kick your weight loss into gear, slow the growth of tumours, give you glowing and gorgeous skin and protect your mind from Parkinson’s disease. Research has also suggested that tea increases your bone density, which helps guard you against age-related weak and brittle bone disorders like osteoporosis. In addition, it is thought that tea protects you from breast, lung and digestive cancers, and, while all tea comes from the same camellia tea plant, the black variety also contains flavonoids which protect you against heart disease – time to stick the kettle on then!

 

Eggs: You never know where you stand with eggs. In the past they have been vilified for their high cholesterol content, but now the tides seem to be turning, and ushering in a new era of egg-cellent health benefits (sorry). In order to stay young, your body needs energy and the ability to be active and fit. Luckily, eggs can provide your body with the protein and B vitamins it needs to accomplish this. In terms of other anti-ageing properties, eggs seem to be especially promising in the antioxidants arena, being packed with lutein and zeaxanthin. These are the antioxidants that may delay symptoms of aging like cataracts. Plus, in some eggs you might find added omega-3 fatty acid DHA which improves the functioning of your heart and brain functioning. If you’re still worried about eggs’ dark past, hopefully the JAMA recommendation that healthy adults can safely consume up to seven eggs per week will turn those concerns sunny side up.

Categories: age related, ageing, ageing foods, ageing process, anti, anti ageing, Chicory, Eggs, Ostrich Meat

Five Forgotten Body Areas that Could be Ageing You

There are countless products, articles and tutorials for tips to anti-age our faces, but what about the rest of your body? It seems that there is more to anti-ageing than simply reducing the wrinkles around your eyes, and forgetting these overlooked areas could be adding years to your appearance without you even realise it. These areas include your hands, chest, arms, neck and legs. Think of where the sun hits your body – these areas very rarely get covered, particularly not in the summer, and they age just as quickly as your face when left exposed. UVA rays cause wrinkles, pigmentation, brown spots and broken blood vessels, all of which age you significantly. The best prevention of sun-induced ageing is to use an SPF every day and to cover up when the sun is high. There are other ways to improve your appearance though, from getting plenty of exercise to eating foods which are great for your skin. To start with, your neck is an area which can age you beyond your years if you don’t look after it. Many people extend their moisturising routine to their neck to ensure that the fragile skin in this area stays hydrated. There are treatments that can help reverse any damage as well. Radio-frequency treatments can help to firm up the delicate area on the neck – lasers such as Intense Pulsed Light can also be very effective in improving the colour and texture of the skin here.

 

Your chest can be exposed to the damaging effects of the sun every day without you ever really realising. Because the skin here is thin, it can age very quickly. You can prevent any further damage by applying sunscreen every day, and using fillers to reduce the appearance of deep creases. Lasers that are recommended on the neck will also work here, or you may prefer to use radio-frequency tightening. Your hands are a quick giveaway to your age, so keep yours smooth and supple for as long as you can. When it comes to reversing the damage on your hands, fillers such as hyaluronic acids can work wonders on wrinkles and lines. Laser treatments can reduce the appearance of brown spots  and there are plumping treatments available too – speak to your dermatologist about which is right for your needs.

Your arms are an area that most people don’t think to worry about when it comes to ageing. However, they can add years on if you’re not careful. They are a magnet for brown spots and skin damage because they are exposed to the sun all day. You may want to try retinoids to thicken the skin and build up collagen, and laser therapy can be effective in treating brown spots and damage to the skin here. If you want to tighten up the loose upper arm skin which can develop as you age, then radio-frequency treatments may be useful to you. A firming body lotion can be quite effective in the meantime though, and will also keep your skin hydrated and soft. Your legs are in a similar position to your arms, in that they can catch the sun more often than you think. Cellulite can also develop as you age, which can lead to an unsightly appearance. Try radio-frequency treatments to firm up the skin here and rid your legs of cellulite. If you have varicose veins, sclerotherapy or laser therapy can fade them. Use a moisturising lotion regularly in the meantime to keep the skin supple and smooth.

Categories: ageing, appearance, Body image, brown, brown spots, frequency treatments, laser therapy, Neck, radio frequency, skin, skin care, Treatments

New Cream Could Completely Reverse The Signs Of Ageing

A new wrinkle cream called MitoQ could be a revolution in the anti-ageing market, as it is thought to both soften the skin and actually reverse the signs of ageing. This was discovered by scientists Rob Smith and Mike Murphy from Cambridge University, who stumbled across the blend of ingredients by accident. It is thought that the cream floods the cells with antioxidants and that these destroy any lurking free radicals.

 

If proved, this discovery will join a whole host of accidental medical breakthroughs which have occurred when scientists are looking for something else altogether. These include Botox, Quinine and Viagra, which were all discovered by accident.

 

In this case, the scientists at Cambridge University were working towards a cure for liver damage, and in the course of this they accidentally created a cream which they now feel sure will work as a powerful reversal for the signs of ageing.

 

Naming their product MitoQ, the scientists have patented the product which they say floods cells which the health-giving molecules and send them straight to the mitochondria, to eliminate the free radicals that cause tissue damage. The team claims that this discovery could massively enhance the body’s antioxidant capacity and restore ageing cells to their optimal function.

 

Other accidental discoveries include Viagra, which was discovered when scientists were looking for a medicine for angina. When the medication, designed to relax blood vessels, was tested on trial volunteers, the results for angina were disappointing. Then, the volunteers started to report that the side effect of the drug was that they were experiencing more erections. At this time, there was no treatment for erectile dysfunction and so this discovery was incredibly exciting.

 

Ritalin was also discovered by accident. It was originally intended to medicate depression in adults and is now used to tread ADHD in children.

Categories: ageing, aging, cambridge university, cream, discovered, Free Radicals, nbsp, reverse, scientists

Can Testosterone Work as an Anti-Ageing Hormone?

Testosterone has many benefits for men, one of which is being touted as the fountain of youth for its anti-ageing properties. Men say that it helps them to build muscle and lose weight, as well as providing energy, but can it really work? In America, testosterone therapy prescriptions are increasing significantly compared to just ten years ago. The study reported that 50 percent of men who opted for this therapy had lower than normal levels of the hormone. However, 25 percent didn’t even have their testosterone levels tested before starting the treatment. Australia has seen similar results, with men looking to long-lasting injections and gels as a way of getting their hormone fix. In fact, studies show that the latest pharmaceutical figures indicate that the number of men using testosterone injections has more than doubled. Doctors advise that this is wasteful and misguided, providing no rational evidence to support the prescriptions. They further state that it can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and can accelerate prostate disease.

While the reports indicate that this is a frivolous anti-ageing scheme, there are legitimate reasons for men to use testosterone. Men suffering with androgen deficiencies or a condition known as Kinefelter syndrome will use it as a form of treatment, However, there has been no increase in the number of men with those conditions, meaning that more and more people are using it simply for the energy boost and weight loss benefits. It is being promoted as an andro-pause for ‘male menopause’ or for male sexual dysfunction. The growing overuse of this hormone could be for use as an anti-ageing tonic or as a way to boost a man’s performance in the bedroom. There are clinical trials being carried out as to the uses of testosterone as a possible treatment for obesity and diabetes – however, the results of these are yet to be published.

Categories: ageing, anti, anti ageing, hormone, men, Testosterone, treatment

How to Have a Positive Outlook on Ageing – and Live Longer!

The problem with the term “anti-ageing” is that it implies a sense of fear, and even anger, towards the ageing process. Everyone gets old, and everyone fears the idea of getting old. You want to feel energetic, vital and healthy, but ageing sounds like the opposite of that wellness ideal. This may be why the global anti-ageing industry is expected to exceed $290 billion by the year 2015 – we hate the thought of ageing, and will do anything to stop it.

 

According to Dr Aubrey de Grey, a biomedical gerontologist (study of old age) from Cambridge, who is one of the leading figures in the field of ageing, your body is like a machine or a car. It tolerates a certain amount of damage, and can be repaired every once in a while, but the damage accumulates over the years and it ceases to function as it once was. Basically, you are designed to have an expiry date – but that date is not set in stone.

 

Last year, researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York undertook a study, published in the journal Nature, which found the answer to delaying the ageing process in a chemical in your body called NF-kB. You produce this chemical in the hypothalamus of your brain, which is where you also regulate your hormones, emotions and food intake. When NF-kB started to become more active in mice, the animals started to show signs of ageing. When the chemical was suppressed, on the other hand, the mice started to act more youthful.

 

However, research shows that having a positive outlook on ageing can extend life by up to 7.5 years. So, all that age fear-mongering from the anti-ageing beauty industry and the media is actually undoing all the good work that their products might achieve for your wellbeing. In his book The Blue Zones, Dan Buettner observed behaviours and habits from people who lived past 100 years, and yet still remained to be vibrant and live an active life. Here are the keys to living longer (and happier) that he discovered:

 

1. Keep ties with families and the community

2. Maintain a strong sense of purpose

3. Consume a densely vegetarian diet

4. Maintain a positive outlook on life

Categories: ageing, ageing process, anti, anti ageing, chemical, fear, nbsp, NF-kB, positive, positive outlook

How to Achieve Younger Looking Skin at Any Age

There isn’t an art to growing old gracefully, it just seems that we’ve forgotten the best tips and tricks of the past – after all, surgery wasn’t always an option. For women who believe that surgery is now the only way to hold back the years, there is a little reminder – 80 percent of ageing is caused by environmental factors, which you do have control over. In other words, if you prevent ageing in the first instance, you won’t need to resort to drastic measures to take back those lines and wrinkles. There are many anti-ageing routines which flood the magazines and websites every day, but the most simple approach is this: protect your skin, use a regular skincare regime and lead a healthy lifestyle. Cutting back on the stress in your life will also help, as stress is one of the most common reasons for premature ageing.

 

The first, and arguably most important, rule of thumb is to wear sunscreen everyday. Sun exposure is one of the leading contributors to ageing prematurely. But it’s not just tanning that does this, it’s also the UV rays which we are exposed to every day. This is why an SPF is vital every day, even if the sun doesn’t seem so bright. This simple yet effective trick will minimize skin damage and lines, as well as keep your skin smooth and supple. You should apply liberally, though – smearing a thin layer on will reduce the SPF of the lotion. A shot glass size should be used to cover your body, and a teaspoonful can be used on your face. Also, don’t forget your sunnies – sunglasses help to protect the delicate eye area from the sun, as well as stopping you from squinting which causes lines and crow’s feet. The less you can do this the better, as over time these kinds of movements will lead to ageing signs on your face.

If you smoke, quitting as soon as possible is vital for your health, as well as your appearance. Not only is smoke responsible for breaking down the collagen in your skin, leading to faster ageing, but it also makes your skin slower to heal. To fight the damage caused by smoking, experts recommend plenty of antioxidants, such as vitamins E and C, and green tea. You should also be conscious of any movements you make with your face on a repetitive basis, as these are the areas where you’ll notice lines and wrinkles more quickly. For example, if you’re always drinking through a straw or frowning, you’ll notice that these areas line more quickly. Cleansing with a product containing alpha hydroxy acids can help to remove the top layer of dead skin so that you can reveal the smoother layer underneath. These type of cleansers unclog the pores, too, so that your skin appears smoother and brighter. Combine this with a hydrating moisturiser to keep the new layer of skin supple. Your diet plays an important role in the appearance of your skin too, though, so you should be mindful of what you’re eating. Fruit and vegetables are obviously important, but you should also cut back on sugary and fatty foods too. Combining this with plenty of water will help to ensure that your skin doesn’t dry out too much – this can lead to lines. Your lifestyle heavily contributes towards how you look, from your weight to your facial appearance. Small changes to this can really make a difference in keeping you looking healthier and younger for longer.

Categories: ageing, anti ageing, face, layer, lines, ll notice, skin, skin care, Tips

Gene Responsible for Ageing is also Linked to Blood Cancer

A recent study has established a link between the gene which is responsible for ageing and a higher risk of blood cancer. The study provides a glimpse into the relationship between the genes and their effects on cancer risk, thus making it possible to develop better treatment options. Blood cancer, especially myeloma, is a condition that cannot be cured. So scientists are looking into the possibility of identifying the threat of blood cancer, so that preventive measures may be taken in time, by studying the genetic makeup of a high-risk patient.

What is Blood Cancer?

Blood cancer begins in the bone marrow where production of blood takes place. In most blood cancers, the normal development of the blood cell is interrupted by their abnormal and rapid growth. These abnormal cells do not let the blood perform its normal functions, such as preventing bleeding or fighting infections. Because of this, the body loses its resistance, thus leading to a weak immune system.

 

Myeloma, a common type of blood cancer, affects the plasma cells. These plasma cells are nothing but the white blood cells which are responsible for producing antibodies that fight diseases and infections in the body. Myeloma causes a weakened immune system that is susceptible to infections.

 

According to statistics, nearly 4,700 patients are affected by myeloma every year due to genetic mutations. 4 out of 10 patients live through the disease for more than 5 years whereas 3 in 10 die within a year.

 

 

 

New Findings

Scientists at The Institute of Cancer Research London found that the gene which is responsible for ageing has links with blood cancer development as well. Researchers concluded that the gene that is responsible for the internal clock of the cell is also 50% responsible for one of the most common types of blood cancer known as myeloma. However, researchers also suggested that it does not mean that the cancer is inevitable for those with this gene. This major study helps shed light on the genetic causes of blood cancer.

 

Scientists had previously identified 3 genetic variants responsible for myeloma. The new study identified some more, thus bringing the total to 7 genetic variants. The study not only helps to understand the genetic reasons of blood cancer, but will also help researchers develop appropriate treatments for the disease. Identifying the genetic makeup of blood cancer will also help physicians assess the risk and formulate treatment plans accordingly.

 

Cancer is nothing but the abnormal division of cells. To control this abnormal growth, our body has an innate system that keeps a check on cell division. But as human beings age, the body loses its ability to keep those checks up, thus making it more susceptible to developing cancer. Those with a specific genetic makeup may become more easy targets of cancer.

 

Myeloma is incurable and has devastating effects on the body; the new study helps identify people who are at high risk of inheriting myeloma, thus significantly reducing the chances of someone developing this cancer. However, researchers also warn that before undergoing genetic testing, patients should be given counseling so that they are able to able to cope with the results of the test.

The new study has truly been a breakthrough in the medical community because it gives a glimmer of hope in the treatment of myeloma which is otherwise incurable.

 

 

 

Author Bio:

Sameer Gupta is a medical writer who writes well-researched, in-depth cancer articles which provide relevant information to help patients combat the deadly disease.

Categories: ageing, Blood Cancer, body loses, cancer nbsp, gene, genetic makeup, high risk, nbsp myeloma, nbsp nbsp, plasma cells, study helps

Budget Wrinkle-Smoothers for Great Skin

There’s an enormous amount of pressure on women to maintain a youthful appearance, yet the hefty price tag attached to the so-called solutions means the majority of women are in a catch-22. For women to stay young, it seems they have to pay a fortune in order to rid themselves of wrinkles. It doesn’t need to be that way though – with some thoughtful preventative measures and low-cost alternatives, you can still retain your youthful glow. These include moisturising regularly, both on the surface and from the inside too.

 

In your 20s

Preventative measures now can save you a lot of time and money further down the line. The best way to achieve this is to use antioxidants to prevent and repair the damage caused by pollution, sun damage and stress. The best time for this repair phase is during your sleep, when the skin is already busy repairing any damage. Wearing a minimum of an SPF15 each day will protect your skin from the ageing effects of the sun, as well as studies showing that regular application of sun cream can help to repair the damage of previous sun exposure. So if you tanned excessively during your teens, there may be some hope of repairing the damage for the future.

In your 30s

Your skin may be looking a little dull by the time you reach your 30s, partly due to stress and partly due to pollution and sun exposure. This may manifest itself in the form of fine lines and brown spots, so you should look to retinol, peptides and alpha hydroxy acids to reverse the damage. Anti ageing ingredients can sometimes lead to flaky skin or redness, but that’s no reason to stop using them. Use these ingredients every other day so that your skin has chance to get used to them. You should also consider your diet – those which are rich in dark green leafy vegetables, olive oil, oily fish and low in milk, butter and sugar will notice an improvement in their skin. You are what you eat, and it’s well worth remembering this when it comes to your skin.

In your 40s

In your 40s, those fine lines you noticed before have become fully-fledged wrinkles, and hyper-pigmentation can start to appear. Hormonal issues can often lead to redness and blotchiness, too. A chemical peel can be a great option for reversing the signs of ageing, which removes the top layer of skin to reveal the smoother skin underneath. Depending on the strength of the peel, you may have some redness or sensitivity for a couple of days afterwards. However, it will help to improve not only the visibility of wrinkles and lines, but also the texture and brightness of your skin. Continuing on with your skincare regime throughout will also ensure that your skin stays moisturised, which is key in preventing further lines from developing

Your skin changes constantly, so it’s important to modify your skincare regime to accommodate these changes. The key aspect of any effective regime is to keep your skin hydrated and protected from the sun – this means wearing an SPF every day in order protect against ageing UV rays, and reapplying regularly if you’re going to be out in the sun for a long time. Your diet, as previously mentioned, is also important so you should try to cut back on the fatty and sugary foods in place of natural nuts, seeds, fruit, vegetables and non-fat dairy produce. This, coupled with plenty of water throughout the day, will help to keep your skin healthy from the inside too.

Categories: ageing, anti-ageing, Fine Lines, lines, preventative measures, Repair, skin, skincare regime, Sun Exposure, time, Tips, Wrinkles

How to Maintain a Great Sex Life as you Age

Just because you’re ageing, doesn’t mean you’re happy to lose the intimacy and satisfaction from your sex life – there are ways to maintain an active sex life, in spite of some of the problems that we encounter as older people. Even as healthy people, ageing brings with it a number of physical changes in both men and women. Some of these developments in the body lead to alterations in our sex lives. While some women begin to feel more able to enjoy sex after the menopause, they may also be conscious that their appearance is also changing which may make them self-conscious in the bedroom. There may be other physical changes for women which make sex different for her as she ages, such as in her vagina – as women age, the vagina shortens and narrows. This leads to the walls becoming thinner and also stiffer, as well as the natural lubrication slowing down as well. This could lead to sex becoming a little painful or uncomfortable for a woman, which could affect her sexual pleasure. As such, she could be at risk of losing the new found confidence that she has gained through age.

 

For men, impotence becomes more common and the risks of developing it increase. This condition makes it difficult for a man to maintain an erection hard enough for sexual intercourse. By the age of 65, it’s thought that 15 to 25 percent of men struggle with this problem. This problem may occur in men who have heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes – this may be because of the condition themselves or because of the medications being taken to control them. Men may also find it more difficult to get an erection, which may not be as firm or large as it used to be when they were younger. There are other problems which affect our sex lives as we age, including other health problems – these may be anything from arthritis, chronic pain, or muscle problems. Your GP will be able to suggest ways of reducing the pain or side effects of these conditions, which can be helpful in building a more satisfying sex life again.

 

Safe sex is as important for older people as it is for teens and young people – sexually transmitted diseases can be spread at any age. In fact, unless you’ve been told by your doctor that you’re past menopause, which means not having a period for more than 12 months, you can even still get pregnant. If you’re sleeping with more than one sexual partner, or have recently started dating a new partner, you should be practicing safe sex and using a condom to protect against HIV and STDs. There are several ways you can ensure you maintain a healthy sex life with your partner – the first step towards this is to remember that sex doesn’t have to include intercourse. You should make sure that your partner is your key priority, and that you pay attention to each others desires and needs in the bedroom. Lastly, keep things exciting by trying new positions and maintaining the passion in your relationship. It’s vital that you don’t blame one another for any difficulties in your sex life – there are a number of reasons why your sex life may have changed from when you were younger, but there are ways to combat them. This is far more difficult if you aren’t working as a strong unit though, so you need to remain on each others side.

Categories: ageing, Body image, Sex

Do Anti-Ageing Supplements Actually Work?

Ageing is something we can’t do anything about, but we can when it comes to the physical effects of it – the importance of staying as young as possible has risen exponentially in recent years. More and more people are seeking out new ways to stave off the wrinkles and lines, through natural and surgical efforts. However, with more of an importance placed on the natural route of late, people are looking to supplements as a way of preserving their looks from within and improving their wellbeing all at once. While supplements that can reverse the years may not be in existence just yet, there are ways to improve your health and preserve your wellbeing in the process. Anti-ageing supplements tend to contain ingredients which will improve your health as well as offer benefits to your looks as well. For example, antioxidants are a popular addition as they’re fantastic for your skin, as well as protecting your body from free radicals. You can source them from your diet, as they’re found in the majority of fruit and vegetables, and they also provide you with protection from diseases, too. But the catch is that supplements don’t offer the same health benefits from antioxidants as those found in your diet, so you could be buying into the anti-ageing scam that the beauty industry is plying us with. In your diet, you’ll find many more nutrients than just those offered in a supplement, meaning that your body benefits significantly more.

 

As we age, our risk of inflammatory diseases increases – for example, arthritis, heart disease and even headaches all become issues. This can have a significant effect on your overall health and wellbeing. Supplements are useful when it comes to anti-inflammatory properties, as they tend to combine a number of health-boosting ingredients which can sometimes be tricky to source from your diet. This is particularly useful with dietary restrictions, such as vegan or vegetarian diets where getting omega-3 fatty acids from fish, for example, is not an option. But there are other supplements which can really do wonders for your health, in general and in terms of ageing, to give you a boost when your body needs it. Folate, for example, is a B vitamin which is vital for your cellular health. It’s often referred to as an anti-ageing supplement, as experts say that it can be beneficial to everyone’s health, not just in pregnancy.

 

Calcium is a crucial mineral for our health, and this is particularly the case as we age – osteoporosis is a condition largely associated with older people, especially women, so calcium can help to prevent this. Supplements are ideal as a way of ensuring you get enough calcium, particularly if you don’t eat dairy. The same can be said of vitamin D – this can be sourced from natural sunlight or your diet, but most of us don’t get enough. This is linked with your calcium intake, as vitamin D helps your body to absorb and utilise calcium. Low levels of this vitamin have been connected to muscle weakness, pain and hormonal problems, so it’s vital that you get your daily intake. It may be useful to speak to your GP about the pros and cons of this vitamin as a supplement. Gingko has been attributed to having a positive effect on ageing as well, helping you to preserve your cognitive function. Some studies suggest that this supplement could help you to stave off dementia from Alzheimer’s disease. While some supplements are less than effective for helping you to age naturally and healthily, there are some benefits to be found in those which improve your health generally.

Categories: ageing, health, Supplements