Aging is one of the most complex processes in humans. Perhaps this is the reason why there has been no one simple formula for anti-aging. Thirty year olds with grey hair, a paunch and a hassled look is not an uncommon sight in the cities. Research goes on to find everlasting youth for an ever-aging society.
The simplest definition of aging is a constant decrease in the capacity to be able to do things. We actually start aging from the day we are born. However, normally most of us feel the aging process around 30 to 35 years of age.
To a large extent we control the rate at which we age. Diseases that challenge our cardiovascular system (heart disease, stroke) and immune system (cancer, arthritis), and environmental factors such as pollution and poor lifestyle contribute to aging. Factors which accelerate the aging process are: smoking, excessive alcohol, stress, inadequate sleep, fatty foods, lack of exercise and negative attitude. Some of the common manifestations of aging are: infections, vision and hearing impairment, heart attack or stroke, wrinkles on the skin, joint pains, memory deficit and slower movements.
Antioxidants are the best known anti-aging compounds because they fight free radicals, slow down the aging process and prevent the diseases from occurring. They are several in number and found in plant foods like grains, vegetables, fruits, herbs and beverages.
Some of the commonly listed good anti-aging foods are: avocado, berries, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, citrus fruits, grapes, onions, spinach and tomatoes due to their high antioxidant content. Transcendental meditation (TM) is believed to slow down the aging process by reducing stress.
A simple plan to stay young:
• Limit fat, sugar and salt in your food.
• Focus on whole grains, sprouts, fruits, vegetables, non-fat curd and fish (optional).
• Practise portion control, don't eat more than what you need.
• Keep physically active.
• Stay away from smoking - active or passive.
• Limit alcohol intake to wine, if at all.
• Detox regularly.
• Think positive.
It is said that those who do not use their brains or body will die out.
Don't let that happen to you, especially if you are young.
