Aging is an inevitable process which creates physical and psychological problems. The mere idea of aging can seem to be more depressing than the actual process. One can always age positively and reduce the effects of aging by ensuring that certain simple key aspects are taken care of regularly. Some of the factors that would assist to fight aging are drinking enough water, having dark green leafy vegetables and vegetables that contain beta-carotene, following healthy eating habits and protecting the skin against sun and pollution. Water is an essential fluid for everyone, irrelevant of age. But as one gets older, he/she needs to consume more water to keep the body hydrated and moisturized inside-out.
1. Skin care
Skin problems are obvious results of aging. But some external factors such as pollution, wind, heat and sun can increase the rate of aging in a person leading to premature aging. If one follows good skin habits, premature aging due to these external factors could be prevented. Some may have good genes, where the aging pace could be lesser than others but that should not discourage others from taking care of the skin.
When one ages, the skin becomes rough and it starts losing elasticity. The surface layer of the skin becomes thin and transparent that results in pigmentation problems and wrinkles. Aging skin is prone to more injury, so always take good care of it. One should follow a good skin cleaning routine from a young age. Experts recommend that you should start anti-aging protection as early as possible and not wait until you hit 40.
2. Gobbling on greens
Antioxidants are found in foods that are rich in beta-carotene. The reddish pigment in fruits and vegetables such as orange, carrots, mangoes and tomatoes are due to the presence of beta-carotene in them. The more colorful the vegetables and fruits, the more are the antioxidants. Vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, beetroot, red peppers, carrots, tomatoes, beans and sprouts are a rich source of antioxidants. Some of the fruits which have good amount of antioxidants are oranges, berries, grapes, plums, apricots, peaches and grapefruits.
Antioxidants are said to prevent or control diseases such as diabetes, heart attack, strokes etc. It also helps in weight management and keeps the cells of the body healthy, thereby providing immune resistance against viruses, bacteria and infections. Research shows that antioxidants are able to successfully ward off cancers and they are being studied for use as an effective treatment.
3. Consuming natural beverages
The human body consists of approximately 55% to 75% of water, and the brain consists of about 90%. So, you can guess the consequences if you don’t consume enough water. It may interrupt functioning of the brain. Water detoxifies the body, moisturizes the joints, protects vital organs and helps the organs to absorb nutrients. It also helps in moisturizing the skin, increases its elasticity and prevents dryness. Dehydration increases the skin’s vulnerability to injury. Therefore, consuming enough water is a necessity.
4. Eating healthy
Research has proven the benefits of foods rich in antioxidants such as wine, tea, coffee, blueberries and grapes. Antioxidants can help to prevent aging and they increase the life span of a person. They help in relaxing the blood vessels and reducing the oxidation of harmful cholesterol. Antioxidants also help keep the heart and the blood vessels healthy. They speed up the cell division and cell replacement processes in the body which help in reducing the effects of aging, and other age related diseases and disorders.
Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, cranberries and raspberries have the most amounts of antioxidants. They also help in increasing one’s cognitive functioning and immune resistance. Beans consist of not only fiber but a good amount of antioxidants as well. The red beans contain large amount of antioxidants.
Dark chocolates are a good source of antioxidants. White chocolate, where the amount of cocoa is very less does not give many benefits. Dark chocolate, which should have cocoa content more than 70%, is beneficial to health when consumed in moderation.
Some of the other foods one should include in their healthy diet are nuts, seeds, oils, soy protein and oily fish. Always purchase foods which are low in fat, cholesterol, sugar and non-GM (genetically modified) foods.
5. Armoring the skin
Poor skin habits such as not removing make up, excessive smoking, excessive drinking, unhealthy diet with insufficient nutrient intake, and not consuming enough water should be discarded. Sun is the main factor which aggravates the aging process.
One should limit oneself from exposing to the sun and use a good sunscreen with high SPF while going outside in summers. That will help in preventing sunburns and skin damage. You should wear sunscreen even in winters. During winter, the sun is closer to Earth and the sun rays are even stronger. Experts say that snow reflects about 80% of the ultraviolet rays that hit it. Outdoor activities help to a great extent in staying mentally and physically fit, especially as one’s age advances. But, one should always remember to protect the skin through right skin habits and a proper lifestyle.