Anti-ageing is a billion-dollar worldwide industry, and it’s hard not to be tempted by lotions and potions that promise to ‘wash away the years.’ But are we missing the most important point? As it turns out, what we feed our body (not just what we put on the outside), as well as a number of other key factors are actually what contribute the most towards us staying youthful as we get older. The good news is, there are quite a few things you can do to help slow down the ageing process, and best of all; they’re simple lifestyle changes which cost next to nothing. Bonus! So, here are the top 3 most effective ‘brakes’ you can put on ageing:
What you eat
If you already stick to a daily diet of five servings of fruit and vegetables, and three servings of whole grains, then you’re off to a good start. Next you need to cut down your fat intake and start including more lean protein like chicken and omega 3 rich fish such as salmon, sardines and mackerel in your weekly meal plan. Don’t forget about important complex carbs like oats, brown rice and whole wheat bread, as these help form a healthy bulk of your meals.
What you drink
Drink a big glass of water as soon as you wake up, and continue drinking water throughout the day until you’ve had at least 8 glasses by the time you go to bed. Not a fan of water? Add a slice of lemon or lime, or dilute it with 100% fresh orange juice. Remember, green tea and other herbal teas, as well as coffee (in moderation), all contribute to your daily quota, and keep your skin hydrated and plump. As much as possible, cut down or cut out alcohol altogether – it damages cells and over time can lead to weight gain and memory loss, as well as flushing, a puffy face and burst capillaries.
How you move
Regular aerobic exercise – 30 minutes at least 3 to 5 days a week is a pivotal part of slowing down the aging process. Even more, regular exercise also combats the loss of stamina, muscle strength, balance and bone density – which naturally increases with age.
Anti-ageing tips from our doctor
Dr. Russell from Hello Doctor suggests increasing your antioxidant intake. Some foods that contain large amounts of antioxidants include:
- Green tea
- Carrots
- Green leafy vegetables like spinach
- Berries, cherries and grapes
- Apples
Have you downloaded the new Hello Doctor app? It’s FREE. Simply sign up on our website, and download the app from the Google Play or iTunes store. Once you are signed up, you can talk to, or text our doctors, anytime, anywhere!
Sources:
http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/aging/anti-aging-tips/seven-anti-aging-tips.htm
http://healthyliving.msn.com/health-wellness/skin/a-top-dermatologists-5-best-anti-aging-tips-1
http://www.prevention.com/beauty/beauty/anti-aging-skin-care-tips-dermatologists