Ageing is the natural wear and tear of the body and the speed by which this process happens is proportional to the amount of free radical damage our bodies are subjected to.
Free radical damage, or oxidation, can be a result of a number of factors such as excessive sunlight, smoking, pollution and even the food we eat. It is unavoidable but can be slowed down by proper diet and supplementation. The group of nutrients which are causing the most interest are the anti-oxidants and the best food sources are fresh fruit and vegetables.
However amounts consumed on a daily basis and the quality have to be good in order to receive optimum benefit which is why supplements can add huge benefits to a health maintenance regime. VITAMIN E, for example, has proved to slow down the oxidation of cholesterol fats in the bloodstream, a predicament that leads to the dangers of arteriole plaque. It is also thought to prevent premature ageing of the skin and protect damage to lung tissue.
CAROTENOIDS such as BETACAROTENE appear to play a major part in premature ageing of the skin from UV light.
VITAMIN C, one of the first antioxidants to be discovered, has many benefits to the body including the skin, bone health and immune function, something which declines as we get older.
Minerals also play an important role in maintaining the integrity of the body. ZINC plays an important role in the health of the prostate and age related eye problems such as macular degeneration. SELENIUM has shown in recent studies to maintain the health of the heart and it may play a vital role in cancer prevention.
The last decade has seen focus placed on naturally occurring plant antioxidants . Plants familiar to us such as PARSLEY, THYME, SAGE, PEPPERMINT and BASIL are packed full of antioxidants including the SALVESTROL compounds famous for their immune enhancing and anti-tumour properties.
Another interesting compound is PYCNOGENOL, extracted from the bark of certain pine trees. Research indicates PYCNOGENOL can improve skin elasticity by inhibiting collagen breakdown and improve the health of capillaries and certain odemas associated with age related cardio-vascular problems.
As well as eating well we can follow some simple guide lines to maintain health as our bodies mature:
- Take moderate exercise at least three times a week, including cardio and weight bearing
- Use body moisturisers after bathing and sun exposure
- Regulate alcohol intake. As well as ageing the liver it dehydrates the skin
- Cut back on sugar, saturated fats and frying. Instead use natural sweeteners such as Xylitol and increase your intake of cold polysaturated fats from the omega 3-6 and 9 groups. This make a noticeable difference to skin softness and tone as well as energy levels and weight management.
- If you smoke, get help to stop as soon as possible.
