Slow Down the Aging Process

Here is a hard fact, aging is a part of life and happens to everyone. While everyone has differing opinions, no one appreciates the onset of wrinkles and lines on their skin. Because of this fact, people opt for using almost anything that is labelled as anti-aging. In some extreme cases, some even opt for the drastic measure of “going under the knife”. Others who prefer avoiding the extreme methods do have fewer options. However, it is important to consider as to what aging is. This might allow us to know what is happening with our bodies and find ways to slow the process down. This includes diet and skin care.

What is Aging?

Aging is a natural process where the body breaks down as it becomes older. Memory loss, decreased brain function, increased risk for chronic diseases, osteoporosis and cancer are among the many signs. However, the skin also faces many problems, from wrinkles to liver spots, the problem appears endless and it is no wonder why everyone fears growing old. Nevertheless, you can always age healthy. There have been several studies that have indicated a positive correlation between a healthy lifestyle and the prevention of age-related diseases.

A healthy lifestyle that includes regular physical activity, sufficient rest, a balanced diet, good skin care, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco is considered beneficial for slowing down the aging process.

Having a balanced Diet

As we get older, our bodies become more susceptible to the long-term effects of free radicals and inflammation on a cellular-based level. Studies have found that a food diet comprised of plenty of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds aid in the prevention of cell-damage from free radicals and prevent the impact of aging. 

Foods and beverages contain different types of ingredients that might be an advantage or disadvantage for aging. Some foods contain powerful substances known as phytonutrients. It is believed that these compounds are responsible for slowing down the aging process. These compounds are members of the antioxidant family. Thus, they are able to rid the body of free radicals (over-reactive oxygen molecules). These nasty free radicals are responsible for aging and many other problems. However, there are many other types of advantageous foods.

There are many other types of food useful for slowing down aging. Foods containing anti-inflammatory compounds are required in your diet to reduce inflammation from aging. Based on the content of these compounds, food is categorized into the three following groups:

è Pro-inflammatory

è Neutral

è Anti-inflammatory

Several studies have indicated that you can help slow down the aging process by eating foods rich in anti-oxidants and that are anti-inflammatory. These include foods such as cold-water fish, fruits and vegetables. On the other hand, the pro-inflammatory food group can accelerate aging. It has been suggested that eating large amounts of saturated or trans-fatty acids, sugars or starches can result in high levels of insulin and trigger an ant-inflammatory reaction. Skin care is also an important part of the anti-aging process.

Taking Care of Your Face

Everyone experiences problems with their looks as they age. However, with a good skin-care regime you can also slow the aging process. It is possible to keep your skin glowing and healthy with proper care. However, the face is often the one part of the body that age faster than other parts. This is due to facial skin being exposed to the environment than other areas. From the weather to bad make-up, your face is definitely affected the most. One method used to keep your face looking young and healthy is facial exercise.

Facial exercise is a practise used by many aestheticians prior to facials, microdermabrasion and chemical peel treatments. Furthermore, facial exercise has been known to relieve conditions such as TMJ. TMJ is caused due to the faulty movement of the temporomandibular joint, which causes facial pain, headaches and other problems.

è What is Facial Exercise?

This form of exercise is in the form of a massage and can be considered an essential part of a facial. It is known to help blood circulation, and aid in detoxification and lymphatic drainage.

Facial exercise is often carried out by moving the pads of the fingers in an upwards, outward motion over the face. Areas with facial tension are slightly pinched or massaged such as the jaw line and around the brow.

If you are interested in implementing a daily facial exercise plan, it is recommended that the following habits are avoided in order to aid in wrinkle prevention:

• Scrubbing your face too strenuously during washing
• Using a downward scrubbing motion during cleansing
• Squinting your eyes
• Sipping your beverage from a straw

Aging is a natural process that cannot be prevented. Nevertheless, if the right skin-care regime and a healthy diet is maintained then you are on your way to glowing and healthy skin regardless of the years.