Advanced Nutrition for Longevity
Some people age much better than the others. Not only do they look younger than their peers but they also seem to be relatively unaffected by health problems that come with age. Unfortunately, advanced age automatically translates into a higher risk of a number of chronic diseases, many of which can seriously affect a person’s quality of life. According to most experts, however, we are not as helpless as we may seem on the first glance. No one has yet discovered the “Fountain of Youth” and there are no sure ways to postpone the effects of ageing nor avoid age-related health problems. But there are ways to reduce their risk. And they also include healthy nutrition that is high in antioxidants, minerals, fibres and other essential nutrients.
How Diet Can Help You Combat the Effects of Time
The importance of a nutritionally balanced diet for the overall health and well-being has been known for a very long time. But its anti-ageing effects have not been understood until relatively recently. Most scientists believe that the anti-ageing effect of some foods is due to their high content of antioxidants such as vitamins C, A and E. According to most experts, they work by countering the effect of free radicals which are thought to play the key role in the ageing process by accelerating oxidation which in turn causes damage to the cells.
In addition to ageing, cell damage that is caused by free radicals has also been linked to a number of health problems including serious ones such as cancer and heart disease. And since the production of free radicals is believed to increase with age, a diet high in antioxidants thus seem to be even more important in the latter life.
Antioxidants Alone Insufficient for a Longer, Healthier and Happier Life
It’s a good idea to include more antioxidant-rich foods in your diet, however, it is important to keep in mind that other nutrients matter a well. A lot! To ensure that you get optimal amounts of all essential nutrients, it is highly important to eat a diverse and nutritionally balanced diet which should, ideally, include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, omega 3-rich fish, beans and legumes, seeds and nuts, olive oil, whole grains and low fat diary products. Be sure, however, to watch out for calories and maintain a healthy body weight by combining a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Even though none of these recommendations are a guarantee for a longer, healthier and happier life, they most certainly improve your chances for longevity and good health.