Before we dive into the "secrets to healthy ageing revealed", lets look at what healthy ageing is.
Healthy ageing is about creating the environments and opportunities that enable people to be and do what they value throughout their lives. Although many of us are leading longer lives, for many the quality of life is less than optimal. In the past it was thought that good health was due to your “good genes”. However, recent research shows us there is more to a healthy body than what we inherited from our forefathers.
Our environment and attitude play a very important part in how we age. Fortunately, there are many beneficial dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as supplements to add, which may assist us to achieve and maintain health, wellness and longevity.
You are What you Eat
Although there is an abundance of food in Western society, modern farming and processing techniques have unfortunately left us with overly-processed, nutrient-depleted packages on our supermarket shelves. In order to nourish our bodies, we need fresh ‘real foods.’
Most of us have acidic systems. An overly-acidic body can lead to inflammation, digestive problems (including bloating, flatulence, constipation and diarrhea), pain, and immune imbalance. Therefore, it is important to include lots of alkalizing foods in our diet. These foods might help reduce pain and inflammation. Try to aim for a diet that consists of 80% alkaline-forming foods and only 20% acid-forming foods within your daily intake. The most alkaline-forming food is enzyme-rich and in its natural state. It is fresh, organic, raw, wild and ripe.
Recent research has shown that intermittent fasting is very beneficial in reducing blood sugar levels, weight and inflammation in our body as well as reducing damage to our DNA (one of the main forms of ageing). To get the most benefit choose 2 days per week and only consume 1200 calories per day. Of course those who are diabetic or have blood sugar or serious health concerns should consult their health practitioner.
Herbs and Nutrients to Help You Age Well
As previously mentioned, nutrient deficiencies are a contributing factor to the aging process. As a result, it is a good idea to take supplements to correct these deficiencies. Many people over the age of 40 are on some type of medication to improve mood or reduce anxiety and stress, lower cholesterol, blood pressure, blood sugar or reduce reflux and digestive symptoms. Unfortunately many of these medications also deplete key nutrients required for good health so it is a good idea to consult a qualified health practitioner like myself to evaluate your individual deficiencies and nutrient requirements. Inflammation and genetic mutations are two key causes of ageing so supplementing with anti-inflammatory and immune enhancing vitamins, minerals, herbs and superfoods can be very beneficial.
These are just a couple secets to healthy ageing revealed, but there is more to reveal in our next article, which will outline some key considerations to help you age well.
