From a child to an adult to a senior, we are all at some stage in the cycle of our lives. As we move through one phase of life to another, there is an opportunity to make the next chapter a healthy and joyous one. Aging is not a bad thing, nor is it something one should fear. Many perceptions of what aging actually is are false.
There is a preconceived notion that as one gets older, their body is supposed to “stop working”. Eyesight becomes poor, bones get brittle, memory fades and the skin loses its glow. Although this is true for some, it does not have to be the reality for all. So, what is healthy aging? Aging healthfully is all about taking care of yourself now, so as to prevent common problems that come as one grows older. Keeping the body active with regular exercise, drinking ample amounts of water, incorporating a wholesome diet, and taking the proper vitamins, are just some things you can do to age gracefully. In this article we will discuss healthy aging supplements, anti aging remedies and what you can do to ensure that the later years of your life are optimal and healthy.
What happens to your Body as you Age
Taking vitamins as you age is important, especially since the body begins to change biologically and many nutrients and hormones naturally decrease. As women experience menopause for example, estrogen levels drop drastically. Estrogen helps to protect the bones and when it is not as readily available, it increases the risk of Osteoporosis. This means that women need to ensure they are implementing some sort of bone support during the menopause onset. Women also experience female aging body changes like vaginal wall thinning, decreased breast size, along with short term memory problems, low libido, and urinary changes. Check out the best vitamins for women over 50 here to learn more about the best supplements to take. In men, testosterone levels begin fall and prostate cancer and erectile dysfunction become more likely. For both men and women, there is a decreased production of collagen and long term free radical damage, which causes fine lines and wrinkles in the skin.
I know this might sound scary to some, but aging can be a beautiful process if the right things are implemented now. Supplements are a great way to prevent deficiencies and maintain better health while aging, so let’s dig into a few.
Vitamins for your Bones
As mentioned earlier, women are more prone to bone disease, but men suffer from arthritis and other bone problems just the same. Bone density and lubrication in between the joints naturally diminish, which causes cracking, stiffness, and inflammation. Important minerals like Calcium + Vitamin D are essential for maintaining the integrity of the bone. This supplement helps to maintain bone density and strength while reducing the risk of Osteoporosis. Other bone nutrients include magnesium, trace minerals, MSM and glucosamine sulphate. Foods for bone health include leafy greens, sea moss, nuts and nut milk, legumes, and whole grains.
Vitamins for Memory
Alzheimer’s is characterized by mild memory loss and is very common amongst the aging population. Cognitive decline is a gradual process, which means prevention is key. Recent studies show that the supplementation of Omega 3 can assist with memory recall and supporting overall brain health. Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid, and the body does not produce it, so external sources are necessary. Omega 3 Ultra is a potent and premium vitamin, offering 1000mg of pure fish oil with added vitamin E for optimal absorption. Food sources include nuts, avocados and freshwater fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna.
Vitamins for the Skin
There are normal skin changes that come with aging, the skin begins to lose elasticity, collagen production slows down, and the body’s natural oils begin to diminish. This is a natural process and people can start to experience aging skin problems which include thinning skin, sunspots, wrinkles, and dehydration. This process can be slowed down and even stopped with the best anti aging supplements that reverse aging. Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that has great anti aging properties. It hydrates the skin from within and replenishes the body’s natural oil production, thus reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen is also a great supplement as it helps to strengthen thinning skin and restore elasticity which keeps the dermis tight, preventing sagging and wrinkles. Vitamin C is an antioxidant, it is a precursor to collagen production, and it helps to keep the skin bright and blemish free. Vitamin C protects the skin against the harmful effects of the sun, cigarettes, airborne chemicals, and processed foods. All of which can contribute to dry skin, acne, and premature aging. Foods that contain Omega 3, collagen and vitamin C include citrus fruits, cold water fish, avocados, nuts, bone broth, garlic, and berries. Want to know more vitamins for healthy and glowing skin? Check it out here.
The Anti Aging Diet Plan
The secret to aging gracefully is incorporating a healthy lifestyle as early in life as possible. Even if you start as a senior, you will still reap the benefits of added vitality and longevity to your life. A healthy lifestyle includes wholesome foods first and foremost. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, grains, legumes nuts and hormone-free meat, will nourish the cells, helping to maintain sustained energy and vitality. You don’t have to “loose energy” and be tired more often as you get older. Ample amounts of water are also recommended as it helps to keeps the body cleansed, bones lubricated and skin hydrated. Regular seasonal detoxes will keep the body free of toxic build up and lessen the chances for disease to fester in the body. Regular exercise and stretching in the form of walking, jogging and light resistance training 4 times a week, will keep the heart strong and prevent stiffness in the joints and muscles. Stress management techniques like yoga for healthy aging, meditation, breathing exercises and regular therapy sessions can help to alleviate stress. Even setting boundaries in your personal life can help to keep toxic people and situations out of your life. Protect your Peace!
All in all, it is possible to age gracefully and in style. The myths of getting old and sick can be a thing of the past. Being mindful of what you’re eating, how you’re treating your body and managing stress the right way are the keys to aging gracefully. If you give your body what it needs, it won’t give up on you. Take advantage of aging resources to help you stay connected and receive valuable tips. It’s important that we all embrace the different stages of our lives and take care of ourselves so we can experience the best of all cycles of our lives.
Additional Resources
National Council of Aging
National Institute on Aging (NIH)
