In one way or another, we all long for the exuberant days of our youthful self.
The firm, glowing skin, the excessive energy, the lean and tone body, the days of no health complications. The list is endless when it comes to dreaming of our youth. Luckily, there are a few things we can try in order to prolong the aging process!
Get Enough Sleep
It is recommended that an adult get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Shockingly though, 40% of American adults are not getting the recommended amount of sleep per night averaging about 6.8 hours instead. Lack of sleep can cause your skin to age, your brain to become foggy, an increase in health problems and a decrease in sex drive, all of which is related to the aging process. Sleep does not cost money, just time. So take time to allow your skin to rejuvenate, brain to re-focus, decrease your risk of disease, and even improve your sex drive. GET SOME SHUT EYE!
Exercise
This seems obvious. Regular exercise can not only help you maintain a leaner, more energized self, but research has also shown that it decreases likelihood of age-related disease like heart and inflammatory conditions. As the body ages, muscle mass and bone density decrease by 1% after the age of 40 years old in men and can be greater in women. Regular strength training will help maintain muscle mass and endurance training will improve cardiovascular function. To prolong the onset of inflammatory disease as well as maintain bone density, you should exercise within at least a 70% maximum capacity for at least 30 minutes a day.
Hydrate
It is recommended that you consume at least half your bodyweight in ounces of water per day. For example, if Sue is 140lbs she should be drinking at minimum 70 ounces of water per day to stay hydrated dependent on her activity levels. Fluids can be lost via urine, sweat, and other bodily functions making it critical to maintain a normal level of hydration. As you age, your skin loses its glow, your sense of thirst may lessen, and your kidneys cannot conserve body water causing you to feel fatigued rather than thirsty. So when you are feeling a little sluggish, opt for a tall glass of water to ensure that your organs continue to function optimally and your skin remains radiant!
Eat a Nutrient-Dense, Balanced Diet
Anti-aging and food are like two peas in a pod. Following a healthy meal plan rich in vitamins and minerals will ensure your body is receiving what it needs to stave off the aging process. Additionally making sure you are eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients can decrease your likelihood of facing an age-related disease, including osteoporosis, diabetes, and heart disease. Try incorporating fruits and vegetables at every meal to help your body get more bang for its buck!
Maintain Your Eyes and Teeth
Your face is typically the first thing people notice about you. Maintaining healthy eyes and teeth is important to your overall health but also for preventing age-related conditions like tooth rot or cataracts. Studies show that eye health as well as mouth health is an age related problem. So it is recommended that you see your eye doctor and dentist at least once a year to help ward off aging conditions that can worsen over time. Additionally, make sure you are taking regular precautions to prevent disease. Make sure you wear sunglasses while being outside for long periods of time, and get in a routine of brushing and flossing everyday at minimum 2-3 times daily.
