As baby boomers continue to age, and to defy the “traditional” concepts of what it means to age and retire, the role of nutrition has become more and more popular.
Especially as it relates to anti-aging.
It’s true that in a real sense “you are what you eat.”
And as people continue to live well into their 70s and 80s the role of nutrition for maintaining a healthy lifestyle is seen as critical.
With this in mind let’s take a look at some…
Anti anti aging nutrition facts
The effects of aging can be understood as the bodies inability to repair damaged cells as we get older. In fact, aging can be understood along 3 different levels:
- cellular
- hormonal
- metabolic
Cellular aging takes place as the body is unable to repair or replace damaged cells.
Hormonal aging is the result of changes in our bodies hormone levels, best understood during puberty and menopause.
Metabolic aging is understood as our bodies ability to ingest, digest and process food into energy changes as we get older. A decrease in energy for the cells has a direct impact on cellular aging.
So how does nutrition help counteract or slow the effects from these three levels of aging?
Lets take a look at some of the foods that help and why.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is known for its immune boosting effects. But did you know that it is also good for your skin, too. In fact, it helps to prevent wrinkles and dryness of your skin caused by exposure to sunlight.
Some food sources for Vitamin C:
- strawberries
- lemons
- limes
- oranges
- chili peppers
- guavas
- cauliflower
- broccoli
- kiwi
Lycopene
Lycopene is a member of the carotenoid family and one of the most powerful and effective anti oxidants. In fact, since your lycopene levels drop as your age, it is important to replenish your body through healthy sources, such as food.
Food sources of lycopene:
- tomatoes
- guavas
- watermelon
- grapefruit
- persimmon
- asparagus
- red cabbage
Isoflavones
Isoflavones are probably one of the least well-known on this list.
However, they are believed to preserve collagen thereby helping you to maintain firmer skin. Additionally, recent studies focusing on populations who eat soy protein have demonstrated lower incidence of breast cancer and other common cancers.
Food sources for isoflavones:
- tofu
- soy milk and other soy products.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Apart from being heart healthy and helping to lower your LDL cholesterol levels, omega 3 fatty acids also help you maintain supple looking skin.
Food sources of omega 3s:
- tuna
- salmon
- sardines
Other dietary factors for anti aging?
General recommendation are to maintain a balanced diet, drink plenty of water to prevent chronic dehydration, eat smaller meals, decrease your intake of fatty foods, reduce your use of salt and sugar, minimize processed foods, and eat more fruits and vegetables regularly.
By following these tips there’s no doubt that you’ll feel better as you age, and have more energy than before making these changes.
Discover the FitMD difference today
If you live in Westchester, NY discover an holistic New York fitness program.
Our FitMD program combines supportive nutrition counseling with personal trainers in Westchester helping you to lose weight, get in better shape, and lead a healthier lifestyle.
For more information click the links above, or give us a call at 914-721-0071 today.
After all, it’s your health…