The Secret to Staying Young: Part II

This is a follow-up to The Secret to Staying Young Part I

There is an important element that some people neglect to do as much, after leaving their schooling years behind, and that’s using your brain and boosting its cognitive abilities. Health experts urge individuals to keep challenging their brain throughout their life. Studies show a direct correlation between learning new things and better brain health as we age. Participating in things that challenge and stimulate your brain like word puzzles, hobbies, reading and taking classes will help to retain the ability to remember things.

Research has also suggested that staying socially active will help stimulate the brain and reduce stress levels.

Another element that helps the skin and the body in general are antioxidants. For the skin, antioxidants provide protection from free radical damage, thereby promoting greater elasticity and healthier collagen in the skin. Antioxidants can be taken in supplement form and are found in high quantities in certain foods. They play a role in anti-aging because they protect the body from free radical damage which can lead to disease and decreased immunity. Berries, sweet potatoes, broccoli, acai, citrus fruits and other foods are particularly high in antioxidants. These antioxidants support the aging immune system, thereby making it less prone to developing disease.

Antioxidants also protect and support brain health. Free radicals speed the aging process because they take a toll on the body, damaging tissues and cells. Antioxidants offer protection for the body, possibly deflecting age-related diseases and increasing longevity. There are many factors that create free radicals in the body and they range from certain foods to air pollution and life-style factors.

Stress is one factor that is responsible for creating free radicals in the body. There is proven research that shows that stress has an impact on the immune system, which can leave one susceptible to many different diseases. Practicing in daily stress-relieving activities such as exercise and certain hobbies can protect the body from some age-related problems. When stress is relieved, people sleep better and have an overall better quality of life.

Some important things to remember are: to practice an exercise routine, eat well, drink plenty of water and laugh freely. Laughter stimulates the immune system, which is essential for health and longevity.

Sexual health is also important. Both women and men show lower stress levels and less overall health decline when participating in a healthy sexual relationship. Research shows that a healthy sex life can add up to 3 years to your life.

There are so many factors that have an impact on how well or poorly we age, but taking active steps can help to reduce problems that may arise as we age.

Unsure if you are experiencing an aging-related problem? Read the 10 Most Common Aging Problems.