Is it just me or is there some cream or pill around every corner and on every shelf that promises to stop aging in it’s tracks? Even though the economy has taken a hit in the past few years (I am trying to avoid your reading ‘tough economic times’ one more time), the anti-aging industry does not appear to be suffering. Or slowing down.
I could have a full time job simply getting facials and various other spa treatments and using all of the anti-aging devices that promise results. Don’t get me wrong—I have spent my fair share on these items and don’t plan to stop. There is a part of all of us that hope that there is a permanent way to erase wrinkles and prevent more cellulite from depositing, right?
What about thinking about anti-aging from the inside out? Is there a way to eat better to delay aging? It is obvious that some things accelerate aging. Take a look at a lifelong smoker’s face and you will see a mound of wrinkles. That person will look much older than they really are. I have also met people who have had a very hard life with a great deal of stress who also appear aged. So what can help to slow down aging?
I don’t think the research is extremely strong in the area of anti-aging nutrition yet. There are some ideas out there that seem to make sense, though. Inflammation causes aging, so it makes sense that foods that are anti-inflammatory would help slow things down.
Antioxidants and omega-3 fats are probably our strongest defense against wrinkles. You may have heard once or twice that fruits and vegetables are good for you, right? It is amazing as I continue to read more and more research how incredibly good they really are. Remember when your mom used to preach to you to eat your vegetables? Let’s also encourage our future generations to eat up their spinach and broccoli. Other sources of antioxidants are whole grains, beans, and nuts. Antioxidants help protect our cells from damaging free radicals. Smoking produces a ton of free radicals and that is how it leads to aging skin.
Omega-3’s are abundant in fatty fishes like salmon, mackerel, and sardines. The omega-3s help reduce inflammation, even at a cellular level.
So instead of spending hundreds on anti-aging creams, maybe all we need to do is take a stroll down the produce aisle.
