The Secret to Looking Younger

Its National Nutrition Month and we’re talking about ways to go further with food.  We have all heard the expression “you are what you eat” and well, it’s true! Aging may be inevitable but the rate at which we age may be up to us.  Many of us will look for miracle creams and expensive treatments to shave a couple years off our appearance but the secret to looking younger can come from simply eating healthy and making a few simple lifestyle changes.

A poor diet can accelerate the aging process by damaging DNA and causing cell malfunction that results in wrinkles and age spots.  Added sugar, processed foods, greasy foods – these can all lead to premature aging.  Aim to eliminate these from your diet and choose whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds, and legumes.  Everyday your body is prone to damage from environmental toxins and UV exposure.  Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables provide a natural line of defense by deactivating free radicals that attack cells; this helps to slow down the aging process.

Want healthy, glowing skin but not sure where to start? Try incorporating these into your diet:

Vitamin A: Encourages skin cell turnover.  Beta carotene may also protect the skin from sun damage and give you a glowing complexion.  Found in sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach.

Vitamin C: Important for collagen formation in the skin.  Found in pineapples, broccoli and kiwi.

Healthy fats: Reduce inflammation which may prevent wrinkles.  Found in salmon, almonds and sunflower seeds.

Water: Drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol is important for keeping skin hydrated and looking fresh.

These lifestyle changes can also keep you looking younger longer:

Be active: Aim for 30 minutes of exercise daily.  A leisurely walk around the neighborhood is an easy way to get started.

Sleep: Your body repairs cell damage while you are sleeping.  Go to bed at the same time every night aiming for 8 hours of rest.

Protect your skin:  Sunblock is a must.  Harmful UV rays cause significant damage to the sun.  Wearing a hat and sunglasses can also provide some protection.

Stop smoking: Smoking causes cell damage and is known to cause premature aging.

Published March 1, 2018