As we get older and start to notice our bodies changing, it’s easy to just accept whatever comes and consider it ‘just a part of getting old’. What if we told you it doesn’t have to be that way? We would be telling the truth, because there are so many ways to be healthy in old age. Often it is our lifestyles and habits that contribute to expediting the ageing process, and so with awareness (and consequent self-care), it’s totally possible to prolong your youth and all that comes with it.
There is no reason your energy levels (or appearance) have to decline to such an extent that you feel your age. The phrase ‘age is just a number’ may sound trite depending on context, but there is some truth to it – if you know how to look after yourself! In fact, your later years can be highly rewarding and productive, filled with fun activities and heightened self-esteem.
We are here to offer you a few tips on healthy aging so that you can benefit from all of the above and more…. so read on to find out about the best ways to stay healthy as you get older.
Our 6 best tips for healthy ageing
- Eat a balanced diet
If you are serious about being healthy in old age, start taking care of your diet now. It’s never too late to start, but the younger you are when you do, the better! There are many foods that promote healthy aging. You should ensure you’re taking in a balanced diet of whole foods that nourish your body, as well as cutting out those that overload and tire your body.
For example, you should be eating plenty of organic fruits and vegetables every day (pesticides will age you fast and perhaps make you ill!), as well as whole grains, nuts and seeds. Be sure to take in enough fibre too; it cuts that youth-destroying cholesterol down, plus all the diseases it can bring. Over 50s men will need 30g per day, and women 21g.
A plant-based diet may not be for everyone, but when done correctly it is the most nutritious and energising. Conversely, it’s better to avoid fatty meats, butter, refined salts and sugars and processed foods; the same goes for acidic foods and drinks. It’s a big topic, but equally it’s smart to educate yourself in this area.
- Get plenty of exercise each week
Ideally you should get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day - even it’s only walking. The benefits of healthy aging will be in reach if you’re working out consistently, because you’ll be flooding your body with life-giving oxygen, strengthening your body, dropping excess fat and flooding yourself with endorphins (the happy hormones).
- Cultivate a positive mindset
Since the mind and body are intrinsically linked, those looking for ways to stay young should be conscious of the messages the mind sends to the body. Looking on the bright side of life, so to speak, leads to more motivation, taking problems in your stride, smiling more (no more frown lines!) and having energy for the little things that keep life sweet.
Some good ways to keep your mental health in good condition are:
- Making time for friends and family (loneliness can age you quickly!)
- Making time for hobbies and new activities
- Trying to be objective about your problems – seeing the bigger picture
- Meditating regularly
- Eating well (and clean!)
- Exercising your mind as well as your body – give it things to do, like reading and learning
- Eliminate bad habits that age you
Although most people have at least one vice at some point in life, when these get out of control we find ourselves aging more quickly than we imagined. The uncomfortable truth is that a lot of our ‘little treats’ (like a glass of wine every night or regular chocolate biscuits) can all age you – and what can age you can also make you ill, even if that takes time.
Smoking, drinking alcohol, consuming lots of coffee, and eating ‘naughty’ foods can all contribute to the process of premature aging. It’s wise to keep these things to a minimum if you want to retain your youth. The same could also be said for tanning beds, stress and sleep deprivation – all of which are causes of premature aging.
- Get plenty of sleep
Easier said than done at times, we know. Yet the fact remains that not getting enough precious shut-eye every night can cause your body to age more quickly. According to researchers who did a study for the University of California, even one night without good sleep can cause an older person’s cells to age more quickly. If that isn’t a reason to go to bed on time, we don’t know what is.
It might help to know that making an effort to incorporate all the other suggestions in this article will lead to easier, more restful sleep.
- Supplement if you need to
Even those of us with the best of intentions can struggle to maintain a healthy, balanced diet at all times. We are up against busy lives, occasional financial limitations and various other factors that make it tricky to stay disciplined in the area of wellness. However, those looking for ways to stay youthful might want to consider taking a few nutritional supplements to delay the aging process.
At Oxford Biolabs we have made it our business to help you keep your youthful state for as long as possible. We offer the highest quality anti-aging products, including supplements that support natural hair pigmentation, supplements that help your hair grow well, those that support your immune system (thus general health) and various products that help to keep your skin looking young.
As you can see, healthy aging requires a multi-pronged approach, but it’s not so difficult and the rewards are high. We hope you found our article inspiring… and if so, watch this space for more!
