As we get older, we can find ourselves feeling like we’re on the downward slope towards old age and beyond. While it’s true that there are some things we can’t control when it comes to aging (wrinkles and gray hair, anyone?), there are still ways to slow down the aging process and stay looking and feeling younger longer. Here are some secrets to aging gracefully that will help us look and feel great as we get older!
Diet
It’s all about eating healthy and lots of it. Most people assume that people over 50 who follow a more restricted diet don’t consume as many calories, but they’re wrong. While some eat too little and lack essential nutrients (especially those on a low-calorie diet), most aging adults don’t meet their daily calorie requirements, causing them to lose weight at an unhealthy rate. Healthy food is not only key to aging gracefully, but it’s also essential for energy, disease prevention, and cellular repair. Eating healthy can help us feel energized throughout the day. Not only that, healthy foods are linked with long-term health benefits that increase well-being as we age. Studies show that consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. The fiber in fruits and vegetables also helps keep us feeling full longer, so we’ll eat fewer calories overall during the day.
Exercise
When we were in our twenties, we could eat and drink what we wanted without worrying about it hurting our bodies. Unfortunately, when we hit our forties (and beyond), we can’t help but see (and feel) that there is a direct correlation between an unhealthy lifestyle and looking older. Adding exercise into our weekly routine will help increase energy levels, promote better sleep patterns, strengthen bones and joints, and burn calories. The American Heart Association recommends 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days per week to improve cardiovascular health in men aged 18-65 years; an additional 20 minutes each day for fitness training three days per week is recommended for men 65 years or older.
Alcohol, Drugs, and Medications
The top secret is avoiding alcohol, drugs, and medications that damage the liver. Our personal care will affect how we look as we age. It is important to be aware of over-the-counter, prescription, and recreational drugs that can be harmful. Taking medication or drinking alcohol frequently will eventually catch up with us and show on our faces. Eating healthy foods and taking vitamins will help boost the immune system, so it doesn’t have to fight off illnesses.
Social Engagement
Engaging with other people and staying active is one of the best ways to take care of our body and mind as we age. By remaining socially engaged, older adults can maintain emotional well-being and become more physically fit. So, make sure to get at least 150 minutes a week of moderate physical activity, such as walking or gardening, to prevent stroke, heart disease, depression, and memory loss.
Avoid Red Meat
Scientists recently found that reducing the consumption of red meat can improve memory, skin health, and thinking skills. Regular consumption of red meat can increase inflammation in the body. Reducing inflammation is an integral part of aging gracefully because it slows down or prevents damage to arteries, brain cells, and other tissues.
