Slowing down ageing with diet and lifestyle changes

Jake recently began a regimen of regular exercise, a healthy diet, sleep, and drinking enough water. He swore that he felt better than ever.  

What exactly brought about this change? Well, Jake had attended a conference where a ninety-year-old man who looked agile as ever detailed his life experience. According to the man, his longevity and good health are due to a proper diet and lifestyle. Jake was going to ensure he looked as good as him when he grew old too.  

What is ageing?  

Ageing is the process of growing older. And it encompasses a whole lot.   

Biologically, there is a decline in the ability of the body to renew and repair itself  

• Mentally, there could be a slow down in the individual’s thinking capacity and changes in behaviour and mood.  
• Wrinkles form, and bones and muscles shrink and weaken. There is also a loss of appetite.   

Older people are more likely to have certain degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Arthritis.  

Is it possible to slow down ageing?  

Yes, it is indeed possible to slow down ageing and get your body functioning at a younger age. The best way to achieve this is to change your lifestyle habits.   

Ways to slow down the ageing process  
Lifestyle changes such as:  

• Exercise: This is one of the best ways to delay ageing. Increased physical activity helps to reduce the risk of diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. As people age, there is a decline in muscle mass and strength. When you exercise, you build your muscle strength and slow down the decline. Exercise could lessen inflammation, increase immunity, and help control weight. Exercise reduces fat deposits that could damage the heart and blood vessels.   
• Having plenty of sleep.  
• No smoking or substance use  
• Abstinent or low alcohol intake  
• Being social and managing stress effectively.   
• Being optimistic. Reduce your stress and anxiety as they demand too much from your body.  
• Diet: Whoever said, “You’re what you eat,” wasn’t lying. To stay healthy and fit, you have to eat healthy too. Apart from eating healthy, you ought to drink water well.  

Foods that slow down ageing:  

Fruits, vegetables, and nuts: These foods contain antioxidants that help slow ageing and its effects. You can also increase the function of your digestive system and improve bowel movement. So, don’t forget to start eating more papaya, avocado, spinach, blueberries, broccoli, and much more.  

Foods that should be consumed in moderation or avoided:  

1. Carbohydrates like pasta and bread  

2. Sodas and energy drinks  

3. Red/processed meat  

4. Alcohol  

5. Fried/processed foods  

6. Salt    

As you age, your body functions will decline, increasing risk of age-related diseases. You can delay the ageing process through proper diet and lifestyle.