Here's How to Prevent Aging, Say Doctors
It's going to happen–we will all age, get wrinkles and not look like we're in our 20s, and it's okay. It's a privilege to get older. We're more confident, mature and know exactly what we want. While many people want to look young forever, it's not going to happen. But we can help slow down the aging process. Eat This Not That! Health talked to experts who revealed their tricks for delaying aging and maintaining a youthful appearance. Read on—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.
Be Optimistic
Dr. Samantha Gambino, a licensed clinical psychologist with a specialty in anxiety, stress management, and wellness says, "Optimism is a psychological attribute where you believe that positive things will happen. It is an expectation that things will work out favorably. Research shows that optimism is related to an 11-15% longer life span. There is a higher likelihood of living to the age of 85 or beyond with an optimistic attitude. And even more powerful is that these findings were independent of other known causes of premature death (i.e., smoking, diet, and alcohol use). Optimism is also associated with reducing one's risk of developing chronic diseases of aging and premature mortality. These diseases include cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory disease. When someone believes that things will work out favorably, their positive mindset facilitates healthier choices and goals in life. Optimism directly contributes to how goals are transmitted into behaviors. Therefore, when you believe good things will happen for you, and in life, you set your goals and make decisions accordingly."
Stay Connected
President/CEO, Charles J. Fuschillo of the Alzheimer's Foundation of America states, "Living a healthy lifestyle becomes even more important for better aging. The things we do to keep body and heart healthy—nutritious diet, physical activity, and social connections – also can help promote brain health and wellness. Social interaction and maintaining an active social life are very important for brain health (and health in general), cognitive stimulation and mood. Invite friends and family over for a meal, board games, or just to hang out. Engaging in your community and participating in group activities is also beneficial."
Eliminate Sugar
Dr. Anna Cabeca, Triple-Board Certified OB-GYN and author of upcoming book MenuPause: Five Unique Eating Plans to Break Through Your Weight Loss Plateau and Improve Mood, Sleep and Hot Flashes explains, "Sugar is an inflammatory food. It increases insulin, which is pro aging. Cutting out sugar helps us become more insulin sensitive, decrease the amount of Insulin in our system, as well as support our body's ability to heal itself."
Eat More Protein
Dr. Cabeca states, "I like to say as a Gynecologist, get Keto Green with healthy fats and high quality protein. As women, we often don't get enough protein especially as we get older and adding in the low carbohydrate, dark green alkalizing vegetables, such as beet greens, kale, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, broccoli sprouts all which are supporting of hormone balance and the gut microbiome. I would say getting keto green, intermittent fasting, no more snacking, eating alkalizing vegetables, herb spices, and making sure we are hydrating well with good clean water will help us age well from the inside out. I always say, beauty comes from the inside out and a healthy digestion for glowing complexion. We can use food as medicine and It's not the same for all of us. Each one has unique needs at certain times of our lives, based on our genetics, epigenetics environment, stressors and lifestyle."
Detoxify
Dr. Carrie Lam, MD, FAAMFM, ABAARM says, Detoxify your body regularly. Proper detoxification and cleansing of the body helps remove toxins that speed up the aging process. You can do this by drinking lots of water and exercising daily. Meanwhile, you can also do a face detox by having a regular facial done or using a facial cleanser regularly. This way, harmful bacteria and other toxins can be effectively removed."
Take Care of Your Skin
Dr. Cheryl Rosen, the Director of Dermatology at bowtiedlife.com explains, "A good skin care routine can prevent, slow down and even reverse the signs of aging. This is because a good skin care routine keeps your skin healthy and functioning at its best. A good skin care routine should include cleansing, toning, moisturizing, sun protection and treatment products for specific concerns such as wrinkles, dark spots, etc. Cleansing removes makeup and other impurities from the skin. Toners help to shrink pores and remove any remaining traces of dirt or makeup. Moisturizers hydrate the skin and help to keep it soft and supple. Sunscreen protects the skin from harmful UV rays that can cause premature aging, sun damage and cancer. Treatment products contain ingredients that help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as other skin issues."
Get a Good Hair Care Routine
According to Dr. Rosen, "A good hair care routine can help prevent aging by reversing the effects of environmental stressors, such as sun exposure and pollution. These stressors can cause oxidative damage to the hair, which leads to the formation of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage DNA and proteins, leading to accelerated aging. The antioxidants in hair care products can help scavenge these free radicals and prevent them from damaging the hair. In addition, regular haircuts can help remove damaged cells and stimulate healthy new growth. This helps keep your hair looking young and vibrant for years to come!"
