Negligence in eating and choosing the wrong foods are the enemies of health. While poor eating habits invite disease, they also lead to premature aging of the body and mind. While avoiding certain foods is essential to prevent premature aging, consuming adequate amounts of certain foods is especially helpful. Poor eating habits can ma e us sick and lead to premature aging, whereas by adopting certain foods, we can prevent premature aging. So, learn about some good and bad foods: Consume them less Sugar – Excessive sugar disrupts the body’s insulin balance, affecting blood vessels and disrupting normal blood circulation in the skin. Cutting out sugar will result in clear and glowing skin within a week or two. Soda – Soda or soft drinks can be very harmful to your skin and teeth, leading to premature tooth decay. Salt – Consuming more than 1500 mg of salt daily is a risk factor for high blood pressure. High blood pressure can lead to early wrinkles on the face. This is due to the weakening of collagen in the skin, which plays a key role in skin elasticity. Coffee – Excessive coffee consumption can also lead to dehydration, which can dry out your skin and cause wrinkles. Mantras for a healthy body and an energetic mind Simple carbs—bread, pasta, and refined flour—release chemicals in the body that damage collagen, the protective layer of skin. Therefore, opt for complex carbs like whole grains. Spicy foods – While chilies are good for metabolism, they can negatively affect the skin of some people, especially women who are in menopause. These herbs will put a brake on aging Aging is a natural process. As we age, our body parts gradually weaken and various systems become sluggish. Applying creams or lotions to enhance the appearance of a glow is futile. Incorporating certain herbs into our diet can boost internal strength and put a stop to aging. Turmeric – Turmeric helps prevent tissue damage. It is a powerful antibacterial and anti-degenerative agent. Turmeric can help control wrinkles, blemishes, and other signs of aging. Ashwagandha - It strengthens the immune system. It keeps the body healthy by alleviating mental illnesses like depression and stress. Besides increasing energy levels, it also provides relief from joint and back pain. Basil – Basil is an antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory herb. Consuming it regularly is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, preventing diabetes, and staying healthy. Antioxidants are beneficial If you want to maintain your youthful appearance for longer, consider consuming foods rich in antioxidants. These protect your cells from various harmful reactions and damage from harmful substances. Beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and the mineral selenium are well-known antioxidants. Beneficial Vegetables and Fruits Various vegetables and fruits contain abundant amounts of antioxidants such as apples, guavas, grapes, blackberries, plums, figs, strawberries, pomegranates, oranges, lettuce, cabbage, cranberries, tomatoes, onions, etc. Almonds also contain antioxidants. Beta carotene is found in yellow or orange fruits and vegetables, such as pumpkin, oranges, sweet potatoes, mangoes, spinach, etc. Lycopene is found in tomatoes, watermelons, and papayas, while almonds, sunflower, and soybean oil contain significant amounts of vitamin E. Spices also contain significant amounts of antioxidants. Researchers in Pennsylvania have found in their latest study that two powerful antioxidants found in mushrooms, ergothioneine and glutathione, not only control aging but also improve general health. Dr. Vijay Garg Retired Principal Malout Punjab |