As the years wear on, you start to feel it in your bones, your energy levels, and even see it in your physical appearance. Inflammation and skin problems begin to become more prevalent, but there are things the ordinary person can do to thwart Mother Nature and reduce common side effects associated with age. Nutrition, exercise, and proper health care can all keep you looking younger well into old age and stave off the effects of premature aging.
Foods That Reduce Inflammation
Eat more foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, olive oil, avocado, flaxseed oil, and flax seeds. These foods are known to reduce inflammation and can help your skin maintain a soft, young, and supple look. Avoid foods like margarine, vegetable oil, red meat, white bread, and other ultra-refined sugary foods. These foods create inflammation that can lead to an accelerated rate of wrinkle formation. If you can’t get enough Omega-3 fatty acids through natural sources, consider adding a high-quality, pure fish oil supplement to your diet.
Fruits and Vegetables
The simplest things are often the healthiest for you. Eat more produce to ensure you get enough zinc, selenium, beta carotene, and vitamin C in your diet. Avocados, red bell peppers, and carrots provide good natural sources of these nutrients. While you may consider using a supplement, it’s still better to get most of your daily nutritional needs through the right foods. For those who can’t stomach large amounts of vegetables, consider getting a juicer to drink your veggies. While you won’t get the fiber, many of the other vital nutrients are still absorbed through the body when you juice. Fruits and vegetables protect against free radicals and aid in the production of collagen. This helps to keep your skin firm and health and resist the effects of aging.
Protein Matters
Recent studies have shown that people who don’t get enough protein in their diet may have a higher rate of wrinkles, cracks in the skin, and even muscle tears. Lean sources of protein are the best sources, and you should aim to include eggs, lean beef, chicken, poultry or beans in each meal. If you don’t want to include meat and fish products in your diet, add tofu and soy fortified to help maintain a sufficient level of protein intake. The Genemedics Health Institute has done studies on hormone deficiencies and hormone replacement therapy in older people, and have found protein may be part of helping your hormones stay in balance as well.
Exercise Your Body
One of the best ways to feel youthful and energetic is by including exercise in your weekly routine. Don’t overdo it, or you may find that the exercise is actually making you even more tired and worn down. The American Heart Association recommends at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity at least five times per week. Do activities like swimming, yoga, and biking to preserve your joints and have less impact on your body.
Feeling younger isn’t all face creams and makeup. You must take care of your body in the right ways so you feel your best for as long as possible. Eat the right foods, get enough exercise and go into your doctor’s office for regular checkups. Aging doesn’t have to be a long terrible ordeal, as long as you’re prepared and start the right healthy habits now.
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