Growing older is unavoidable, but the lifestyle choices you make may either hasten or halt the process of aging. For example, you’re surely aware that excessive drinking makes it more difficult to survive to 100, but regular exercise keeps you fit and vibrant as you age. Did you know that a recent study found that eating less slows down the aging process? Continue reading to discover more about this research and some dietary tips to remember.
Why Eating Less Slows Your Aging Process
Research participants who reduced their daily calorie intake by 15% for two years saw two possibly favorable impacts when compared to those who maintained their usual diet: They had a slower metabolism, indicating that their bodies use energy more effectively, as well as reduced “oxidative stress,” a process that may harm cells.
“If metabolic byproducts accelerate aging processes, persistent calorie restriction over many years may assist to minimize risk for chronic illness and lengthen life,” said lead research author Leanne Redman, an associate professor at Louisiana State University’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center.
According to research published March 22 in the journal Cell Metabolism, both a slower metabolism and lower oxidative stress are associated with a decreased risk of age-related disorders such as diabetes and cancer. The researchers believe this is because slow metabolism causes less oxidative stress, which causes less damage to cells and organs in the body.
Dietary Tips
- Eat less
Now that you understand the benefits of eating less, you can try to consume two meals every day, with breakfast being the most crucial. Eat inside a 12-hour window to allow your body to fast for 12 hours. Fast for three days at least once a year, preferably at the start of each new season. If you’re up for it, try calorie restriction.
- Shy away from sugary foods
Soda beverages, sweets, candies, cake, pastries, doughnuts, biscuits, candy bars, and chocolates are all included. Be aware of goods that seem to be healthy but include a lot of sugar, such as low-fat yogurt, vitamin waters, sports drinks, or health drinks.
- Limit your intake of animal protein
Too much animal protein (particularly red processed meat) has been shown to hasten aging. If you must have animal protein, choose white meat (poultry) and fish. Some experts even advocate eating exclusively fish and veggie protein (e.g. nuts and legumes). If you eat fish, choose low-mercury species and limit your consumption of high-mercury seafood such as tuna, swordfish, mackerel, and halibut.
- Avoid unhealthy fats such as trans fats and omega 6 fats
Avoid fried meals, quick food, and bread items in general. Reduce your consumption of crackers, cookies, cakes, and other baked foods, refrigerated dough products, snack foods, fast food, ready-to-eat meals, various vegetable shortenings (made from partially hydrogenated vegetable oil), french fries, as well as omega-6 rich oils and fats.
Choose Discovery Village At Twin Creeks for Elegant Senior Living
Many active seniors relish an Independent Living lifestyle. At Discovery Village At Twin Creeks, you can savor the freedom of living on your own terms while enjoying access to our excellent amenities and attractive clubhouse. If you’re thinking about whipping up a meal in the comfort of your own kitchen, why not take a look at the benefits of organic food? Prepare some healthy and delicious recipes, either to enjoy for yourself or with a group of friends. Everything is possible in our vibrant community.
If you want to learn more about our senior living options, please contact us right now!
