Is there such a thing as healthy aging? Of course there is. Healthy aging is defined as living a longer and healthier life. Many studies have proven that there is a significant link between a healthy diet and prevention of age-related diseases and conditions.
To live an anti-aging lifestyle, you must participate in regular physical activity, eat a diet that is full of healthy foods, drink lots of water, get plenty of rest and avoid certain toxic practices such as smoking and excess alcoholic drinking. These guidelines are your best defenses against aging.
FOODS FOR HEALTHY AGING
The following foods and beverages increase your body’s good health and reduce the signs of aging:
*FRUITS AND VEGETABLES are loaded with antioxidants. (Antioxidants eliminate free radicals in the body that are the pre-cursors for cancer, heart disease, and osteoporosis.) Your goal should be 5 servings per day. Include foods in a variety of colors; the brighter the color, the higher the antioxidant properties.
*LEGUMES (beans) are packed with nutrients similar to fruits and vegetables and are low in calories.
*NUTS are good for your heart and your brain. They are full of healthy fats that benefit the collagen in skin, maintaining the skin’s structure and keeping it resilient.
*WATER moisturizes your skin, muscles, circulation and all your internal organs. It is essential for the health of your body. Drink at least 8 glasses a day. Water also keeps your metabolism functioning at its optimum level.
*WHOLE GRAINS provide needed fiber for efficient bowel function. This aids the body in eliminating toxic substances that are hazardous to your body and skin. Try for 3 servings a day. Check food labels to make sure the ingredients include whole wheat or whole grains.
*YOGURT adds healthy bacteria to your intestines, needed for fighting off toxins. Try to eat 3 servings a day.
Powerful anti-inflammatory foods offer a multitude of health benefits. The top anti- inflammatory foods are fatty fish (salmon, trout, mackerel, and herring), garlic, onions, leeks, scallions, chives, barley, beans and lentils, yogurt and kefir, nuts, seeds and sprouts, green foods, and hot peppers.
PRESERVING YOUR SKIN
To effectively protect your skin naturally, stay out of the sun, use sunscreen, don't smoke, eat a healthy diet, and drink plenty of water. You also need to get regular physical activity and plenty of good, regular sleep.
OTHER AGING FACTORS
There are, of course, many other factors that can contribute to aging. Stress, hormones, and a weakened immune system are all additional causes of aging.
Choosing smart and healthy lifestyle choices are your best tools to help prevent and retard the signs of aging. Making small changes can result in major benefits for your body and the aging process.