In an article reviewed by Dr. Debra Jaliman, a US-based internationally recognized dermatologist for her research and work in clinical dermatology, and whose office is the national training center for Botox where doctors are taught by her on proper injection techniques, she outlined several factors that could keep us looking younger.
SLEEP - as always, getting quality ZZZs is tops because if we lack sleep, our bodies releases the stress hormone cortisol that breaks down the collagen that keeps our skin smooth, which then leads to wrinkles and sagging. Alcohol, caffeine and electronics are to be avoided prior to bedtime.
SMOKING - it lessens the blood flow that carries nutrients, especially oxygen, to the skin and could slow our body’s production of collagen. Besides the higher risk of cancer, our skin gets wrinkled at a younger age.
TOO MUCH SUN - letting the sunshine in is ok but not too much as it damages collagen in our skin and could cause our bodies to make too much of a protien called elastin, which causes skin to become thick and rough with deep wrinkles and age spots. If being under the sun can’t be avoided, cover up with hats, sunglasses and long sleeves and use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
MOISTURIZE - dry skin gives the look of a rough and scaly older person. Moisturizing at least once a day helps seal in moisture that keeps skin looking young and healthy.
HEALTHY EATING AND EXERCISE - cut back on sodium-packed processed products as well as fatty red meats and instead, go for whole grains, fruits, veggies and lean meats like chicken and fish. Mix this with regular physical activity almost guarantees a youthful feeling. Healthy eating and exercise keeps the age-related illnesses away.
SOCIABLE - keeping close ties with friends and families helps us stay young at heart as it prevents anxiety, depression and dementia linked to old age. We don’t need to be a Marites to be sociable. What matters most is the quality of our social connections, not the quantity.
LENDING A HAND - it doesn’t need to be always money when we extend a helping hand. It gives us a feeling of pleasure, joy, satisfaction, connection and calmness when we help someone. It lowers stress and helps heart health and our immune system.
REGULAR CHECKUPS - yes, we’re not getting any younger and it is recommended to have yearly visits to our docs after age 50 for blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol testings. The earlier things are diagnosed, the sooner things get treated.
Let’s heed these advises and we just might slow down aging.
bobbytoohotty@lycos.com, bobbymotus1961@gmail.com