Tips for staying young

Getting old is part of the natural course of living. Indeed, healthy societies admire their elders and give them a place of importance. Regretably, our popular culture is focused on the young, and leaves women vulnerable to fears about growing old. When the focus on youth results in sacrificing health in the long run, we must re-evaluate our priorities.

It's good to want to appear healthy and fit, and we should do so. Don't fault your genes if you are not making wise and healthy choices. Even genetic proclivities to early aging can be greatly expedited by foolish health choices. Staying informed and making decisions that start you on the proper track early is key to every aspect of health!

Keeping as young as you can isn't complicated. Begin by following these basic principles.

Make sure you get plenty of plain water. If you are aware you don’t drink the proper amount of pure water, then it's time to begin. Lack of water in the body can creat problems. Don't underestimate the value of water to your health and vitality.

Reduce those portions. Most of us way over eat. Digesting food is hard on the body. It uses a lot of energy. The more extra weight we carry , the more we damage our bodies. Eat properly for your body type and requirements — in moderation. Skipping a meal now and again can be good for you.

Avoid tanning beds if possible. The skin is your largest organ - handle it with care. If you are after a tan, acquire it naturally, by getting sun in moderation in mid morning or later in the day, when the sun is not at its peak.

Get sufficient rest. Sleep is how our body rejuvenates (”restores youth”) itself. We are only given so much energy, and can't use it all up without paying steep price. Most experts recommend six to eight hours a night, and it’s believed that the more sleep you get before midnight, the better your sleep will be.

Get fit! Nothing can make you look older than being flabby and out of shape. So don't be a couch potato. Start a regular walking program, or start toning, or get a low impact aerobics DVD and use it often and you’ll delay the aging process. Salsa dancing or fast walking are good choices. There are lots of programs available for those with physical limitations. Consult your local rehab center. Looking and feeling even better - what a bargain!

If you smoke, quit. Smoking is a primary cause of premature aging — to name just one consequence. Your skin and eyes take a beating and you breathe in toxins that the body works constantly to eliminate. Smoking fills the body with oxidents which are known to be causes of aging.

Make sure you understand ALL the side-effects of the medications you take. There is no one out there who has a better reason for understanding what effects pharmaceuticals have on your body.

We understand there’s no hidden Fountain of Youth, and each one of us is going to pass out of this world one day, but let's don't hasten the time or end up looking and feeling older than is natural. Premature aging can be stopped.