Age is just a number, but our outlook on life and how we feel and take care of our mind and body is what truly matters. We all know (or even own) the arsenal of anti-aging or anti-wrinkle creams and serums people stack in their medicine cabinets. We are aware of Botox, of quitting cigarettes, and stocking the shelves with expensive vitamins that rejuvenate our skin, but a lot of people don’t realize that diet and natural beauty routines have powerful anti-aging effects.
Eat Your Antioxidants
Although having a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help you maintain a youthful appearance, antioxidants in particular seem to help reignite the skin’s vitality, vibrancy and overall look. That is because they provide protection against the damaging effects of free radicals on the cells in your body, including those in your skin. Almonds, green tea, avocado and sweet potatoes are all foods rich in antioxidants. Click here to learn more about antioxidant-rich foods.
Cut Back On Sugar
A secret to aging gracefully is feeding your body with foods that will fuel you, not weigh you down. While sugar is regarded as collagen’s natural enemy, turning the skin less elastic and more prone to wrinkles, sugar’s effect on aging goes deeper than that. Mounting evidence shows that sugar molecules may also be involved in the development of chronic degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, you can substitute sugar with healthier, natural options such as raw honey, agave and stevia.
Get On Board With Coconut Oil
This superfood is beneficial for skin and hair care, but it has also been known to improve antioxidant levels and reduce the signs of premature aging. In addition to nourishing the skin, it can decrease stress on the liver, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system, improve brain function, and help those with type II diabetes.
Dried Prunes For Strong Bones
Dried prunes are commonly used to regulate bowel movements; however, Osteoporosis International conducted a study on people with low bone density, and the results showed that those who consumed 3.5 ounces of dried prunes daily indicated a reduced rate of bone breakdown, as well as bone-protective effects. Prunes are rich in vitamin K, magnesium and potassium, all of which are vital for bone health.
Exfoliate
Exfoliating can assist the body with healthy cell production, but it also gets rid of dead skin cells and toxins that accumulate on the skin. It helps give the skin a smoother complexion. There are many natural ingredients that can be used as exfoliators, depending on the person’s taste, and the ingredient’s benefits. Great natural exfoliators include sea salt, baking soda, citrus fruits, oats, raw honey, and papaya.
Start Swimming
If you needed a reason to hit the pool at the gym, here it is: swimming may slow down aging by decades. This full body workout is gentle on the joints, regulates blood pressure, increases respiratory function, and cardiovascular strength; all of which are traditional age markers. Swimming also improves cognitive function, and is a powerful tool for fighting stress and depression, according to an international study commissioned by Speedo.
