In 2023, experts estimate that Americans will spend more than $216 billion on anti-aging products, mainly in the cosmetic sense. Sadly, consumers will waste much of that money on fad solutions and fly-by-night remedies. Many people do not realize that aging takes place internally before it manifests on the outside – so concentrating on optimizing the health of your organs and systems is the best way to head off some of the more troubling signs of aging.
While aging is inevitable, aging poorly is not. As the population is living longer overall, it is more important than ever to seek ways to age proactively and in the most healthy manner.
What are some ways we can delay the telltale signs of aging? First, let’s look at six issues most face as they grow older.
1. Joint Pain: Achy joints are one of the most common symptoms of aging, with osteoarthritis and other conditions becoming evident as cartilage breaks down and inflammation and swelling occur.
2. Insomnia and Fatigue: Feeling exhausted and unable to get a good night of sleep is often a sign of aging. Chronic fatigue and daytime sleepiness increase after age 40 and can be caused by various underlying conditions, including sleep apnea.
3. Brain fog: Brain fog is characterized by several symptoms, including fatigue, irritability, issues with concentration, memory lapses, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
4. Inflammation: Inflammation is the cause of most diseases. The most common culprit is leaky gut, which allows proteins and molecules through the digestive system lining. This condition results in food sensitivities, digestive problems, Crohn’s and IBS, thyroid dysfunction, nutritional deficiencies, mood problems, and inflammatory skin conditions like acne or psoriasis.
5. Changes in Appearance: The most prevalent external sign of aging occurs in the appearance of your skin. These may include sunspots, patchy-looking skin, itchiness, wrinkles, and sagging. Sun exposure is a significant factor in the way your skin ages. Collagen and elastin also decline as we age, and both are essential for proper skin elasticity and skin health.
6. Weight Gain: While gaining a pound per year is considered “normal” after a certain age, many adults gain much more than that as they age. Weight gain is associated with less active lifestyles, poor sleep, and a poor diet. There are biological indicators, such as low resting metabolism, meaning your body doesn’t burn calories efficiently in periods of inactivity. Hormonal imbalances can also cause weight gain in older adults.
What Can Be Done?
Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet That Supports Brain Function
Many aspects of aging poorly are directly related to chronic inflammation. Therefore, filling up on anti-inflammatory foods can help dramatically. These foods include green, leafy veggies, antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, high-quality meats and seafood, nuts and seeds, and bone broth. Spices such as ginger and turmeric and healthy fats like coconut and olive oils are also powerhouses in this regard. Probiotic foods and drinks like kefir and kimchi support the immune system, brain, and digestion.
If you cannot get enough of these nutrients via your diet, supplements such as probiotics, omega-3s, anti-aging essential oils may provide an alternative.
Keep Moving and Stay Active
There is no getting around it – a sedentary lifestyle is bad for your health and will cause the conditions associated with premature aging. You don’t have to be an athlete – simply find an activity you enjoy that keeps you on the move. Living in Florida allows us to be outside all year round, and walking, jogging, biking, tennis, or swimming are all great options for exercise. Also, be more conscious about “downtime” and look for ways to add activity – such as walking around your house while talking on the phone or getting a standing desk for your work.
Reduce Your Stress Levels
Stress is closely associated with inflammation that can exacerbate the aging process. Striving to eliminate stress from your life gives more opportunities for aging gracefully. Exercise or yoga are known to lower stress. Prayer and meditation, acupuncture, therapy, taking time in nature, and journaling are also powerful methods to lower your stress and anxiety. A robust support system – family and friends who love you – is also an indicator of reduced stress.
At Longevity Wellness Clinic, we take a holistic approach to preventing the avoidable signs of premature aging. Call today to learn more about our therapies and services to help you age beautifully.