If you don’t want people to think you’re 10 years older than you really are, this article is definitely for you. Sadly, there are many common everyday mistakes that make us look and feel much older of who we are, and can cause more wrinklesa bigger waistand worsen mental abilities. For example, did you know that foods like bagels, pretzels, and cereal can accelerate the aging of your skin (Y cause dreaded flare-ups)? Yuck!
Although there is no type of magic fountain of youth elixir that can reverse the effects of time on your mind and body, you can make some crucial adjustments to your daily routine that will put you back on the right track. Get ready to trade in bad habits for healthy eating, hydration, and exercise.
Read on for the critical things that make you age faster. Avoid them at all costs so you can pleasantly surprise people with your age!
Foods that are highly processed and full of oils and artificial ingredients cause a lot of problems in your body. These types of foods can accelerates the aging of your cells due to increased inflammation and increased risk of many health problems.
We get it: that greasy cheeseburger and fries may be calling your name. But unfortunately, this type of food could put a strain on your digestive system, completely messing up your gut bacteria, and increasing your risk of developing diabetes and heart disease (via WEATHER).
Sure, you can indulge once in a while, but enjoy these cheat meals in moderation. For most of your meals, eat healthy foods, which will give you the nutrients to keep your body young and vibrant.
Related: Trainer reveals 5 exercise habits to slow muscle aging
I don’t want to sound like Baz Luhrmann, but wearing sunscreen is one of the easiest things you can do to keep yourself looking young and healthy, whether you’re lounging on the beach or heading out for fun. Why? Because excessive sunlight creates visible signs of skin aging and can damage cells, Cleveland Clinic reports. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), exposure to too much ultraviolet light may also lead to skin cancer.
If you’re going to be outside for a decent amount of time, no matter the season, then wear sunscreen to protect yourself from harsh rays and hydrate your skin. The CDC recommends wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts when you go outside (when you can), in addition to sitting under an umbrella, wearing a hat, and putting on sunglasses.
Related: The best exercises to live to 100 and beyond, a trainer reveals
The next step on this list of things that make you age faster is not drinking enough water. Although the human body is made up of about 60% wateryou actually lose the composition of water as you age (through the National Library of Medicine). Being chronically dehydrated, even a little bit, makes you feel stiff, weak, sluggish, and like you’re 10 years older.
Start each day with a large glass of water, and be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially if you’re exercising, at high altitudes, or in warmer weather.
We all experience occasional stress in life, but dealing with chronic stress can lead to mental disorders and accelerated aging (via biomedicines). If you want to feel your best as you age, work to reduce stress in your daily life with exercise, journaling, meditation, and more. Work to face your problems and adopt a positive mindset to overcome the challenges in your life.
Many Americans struggle with sleep. In fact, according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Weekly Morbidity and Mortality Report, one in three adults does not get enough regular and solid sleep. Research shows that a lack of good sleep is associated with more inflammation, a higher risk of disease, and faster biological aging (via PRB).
We cannot stress this enough: Build good sleep habits! According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the Sleep Research Society (via the CDC), adults between the ages of 18 and 60 should get a minimum of seven hours of sleep each night to stay healthy. Sleep in a dark, quiet, and cool room, and avoid electronics, caffeine, or alcohol too close to bedtime. Try a relaxing routine before bed to prepare your body and mind for rest.
While exercise is vital to maintaining good health, taking it to the extreme has serious drawbacks. Avoid the kind of strenuous, joint-pounding activities that require surgeries starting in your 40s.
Exercise is a lifestyle, not a battlefield: you don’t get bonus points for destroying your body in the pursuit of fitness. Instead, as you age, switch to low-impact exercises like swimming, biking, rowing, yoga, and more to get a great workout without the strain on your body.
Anthony J Yeung
Anthony J. Yeung, CSCS, is a fitness expert featured in Esquire, GQ and Men’s Health and the founder of GroomBuilder, the destination for men who want to transform their bodies for their weddings. Join the free 5-day course to burn fat and build muscle for the big day! Read more about Anthony
