Feeling or looking older than you really are can be depressing or alarming. It can be disconcerting when strangers or even friends within our social circles are guessing our age and over estimating by five or ten years. But before you get too worked up about it, you need to realize the behaviors and reasons that make us look and feel older. And the reasons may be simpler to tackle than initially thought.
Diet, exercise, and sun exposure all have effects on our energy levels and our appearance. Making a few dietary changes can help you gain more energy and boost your metabolism. But what does that mean? Too many of us eat diets that are high in fat, high in sugar, and high in processed foods. Our bodies actually get damaged by high sugar diet and foods that are fatty. Processed foods are full of preservatives and sodium that are simply not good for us. Instead, try eating minimal processed foods. This means a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables. No refined sugars or buying things with ingredients that are difficult to pronounce. Don't eat fatty meats that will clog your arteries and raise your cholesterol. Instead, work to incorporate healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids. Foods such as fresh salmon and other types of fish as well as nuts and seeds are great sources of this important nutrient.
Another culprit that adds years to our appearance is the sun. Failing to protect ultraviolet radiation rays from hitting your skin is one of the ways we add wrinkles and blemishes. Add that to the fact that collagen and elastin production slow down as we age and there's yet another reason we look in the mirror and see those wrinkles that weren't there just a few years ago. Too much sun can also lead to skin cancer. Take the extra time to put sunblock on and cover your face with a hat.
Of course, another culprit of looking or feeling older than we are is stress. When we are stressed out our bodies produce certain hormones. Those hormones might not be bad during the short term, but long term they are not good for you. They can interfere with our sleep patterns and our appetites. Wipe out stress by exercising. Stretch out muscles on a daily basis - try some yoga. When done correctly it can help reduce stress and tone your body. And that is something that will enhance your overall appearance and your outlook.
A blog with information to help inspire action that will improve health.