They say 40 is the new 30, but what does that even mean? People are living longer largely in part because they are choosing to pay more attention to their health, but the truth is, if you aren’t doing what you can for your body and mind, 40 could be the new 50 instead. If you want to slow the aging process, it will take more than the mythical fountain of youth.
Eat the Right Foods
Grains, refined sugar, trans fat, and alcohol may taste delicious, but they are also causing you to age by damaging your cells, which can cause wrinkles and even lead to serious problems such as heart disease. Changing your diet to include healthier foods may lead to a longer life and is very likely to keep you looking younger for longer.[1]
Swap out your favorite breads and bourbons in favor of fish and leafy greens, which are high in omega-3 fats and antioxidants, respectively. Berries, herbs, and teas that are high in antioxidants may also slow the aging process. Foods that are high in protein and low in fat can prevent weight gain and stabilize your blood sugar. It has even been known to reduce stress.
Exercise a Few Times a Week
A body in motion stays in motion and stays fit. A fit body looks younger. If you aren’t exercising regularly, now is the time to begin. People who are physically active at least a few days per week create more growth hormone, which affects everything from your skin to your libido. Aerobic exercise also promotes heart health and even keeps your brain active. Don’t forget to lift weights. Doing so promotes muscle mass and improves your strength, which has been shown to keep your genes younger.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Although there are disputes on how much sleep is enough — some experts believe it’s seven hours while others believe it’s nine — one thing researchers agree on is that sleep deprivation will make you look and feel old.[2]
Getting a good night’s sleep requires several things. First, ensure you have a great mattress that supports your neck and spine and keeps you from tossing and turning all night. Next, stop staying up later than you need to. Set a bedtime for yourself and go to bed by that time every night, including weekends. Turn off the TV, computer, and smartphone about an hour before bed to allow your brain to relax. Studies have shown that the light from electronics can make it harder for you to fall asleep at night.
Try to Reduce Stress
Reducing stress is easier said than done, but it’s important to give it an honest try if you want to look as young as you feel as stress has been known to cause wrinkles, dry skin, limp hair and even dark circles under the eyes. If at all possible, leave your work at work to prevent taking stress home with you. Other ways to ease stress include listening to your favorite music, meditating, drinking green tea, or even just taking a long bath.
Take Care of Your Skin
Sunscreen and sunglasses are very important for preventing wrinkles and age spots on your skin. Wear a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day, including on cloudy days and during the winter. Sunglasses protect the delicate skin under your eyes from the sun’s rays as well as keep your eyes from being damaged by the sun’s bright rays. Your sunglasses should block at least 99 percent of UVA and UVB radiation.
Consider Taking a Supplement
While a supplement alone won’t prevent again, taking one in combination with any of the above steps is likely to help. An anti aging supplement such as Timeblock are supplements designed specifically for anti aging benefits.
The Timeblock product is vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free and has no artificial dyes or preservatives. Other benefits include:
- Helps you to maintain healthier bones, teeth, and skin
- Helps you to maintain good eyesight
- Helps to protect you from free radical included oxidative stress
- Includes green tea to improve brain function
- Includes barley grass to strengthen your immune system
- Includes wheat grass for stronger red blood cells
- Includes shiitake mushrooms for better cardiovascular health
This natural supplement also has ingredients such as grapeseed extract, tomatoes and brown seaweed, which help to improve eyesight, the immune system, and antioxidant benefits, respectively. Time block can also help increase the length of your telomeres which can be a key indicator in aging.
If you want to remain vibrant and healthy in mind, body, and spirit, taking care of yourself is of vital importance. Implementing the steps above into your life will help you do just that.
Image Source: University of Florida Online