My anti-aging goal is to look and feel as good as I can for as long as I can.
That’s why today I want to share with you what I have learned about foods and aging.
At the top of the list are sugar and high fructose corn syrup. They break down your collagen which then speeds up the aging process.
You see, when your body starts losing collagen, wrinkles form, bones become brittle and joints start to ache.
Fructose also affects brain function. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Physiology found fructose slows down the brain and memory functions in rats. High fructose corn syrup also alters the brain’s ability to learn.
Charred meats from the grill are another aging food. Besides breaking down your collagen it also increases your risk of Alzheimer’s, kidney disease, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. It happens because of the chemical reaction that takes place when meat is browned at a high heat which then causes carcinogens to form.
You don’t have to stop grilling. Just cook at lower temperatures and make sure to clean the grill before throwing on your next steak.
If you do happen to char your meat, scrape it off.
Another food that causes premature aging is processed meats. The main preservative used is nitrates. Nitrates have been linked to heart disease and cancer. They also age you by causing inflammation and wrinkles. Processed meats include: hotdogs, deli meats, sausage and bacon.
And a new study by researchers at Rhode Island Hospital have found a substantial link between increased levels of nitrates and deaths from diseases, including Alzheimer’s, diabetes and Parkinson’s. The study was published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Next, you might be as surprised as I was to learn that Tofu, if consumed in large quantities, is not good for you.
In fact, a 2008 study published in Dementias and Geriatric Cognitive Disorders found evidence that a high consumption of tofu is associated with a decrease in memory function, especially for those over 68. Soy products high in phytoestrogens can also increase your risk of dementia.
You have to be mindful when shopping because there are hidden culprits in so many packaged, canned and frozen foods to preserve them — but they don’t preserve you.
Along with the preservatives in these foods there are additives, dyes and artificial flavorings. All these unnatural ingredients can age your brain, your skin and your body.
Your best bet is to skip the processed food as much as possible.
I’ve always heard you should shop the perimeter of the store. That’s where you find the fresh and natural food.
I know it’s hard to eat right all the time. But even if you cut back a little on some of these things you may be preventing more than you know.
If you missed my article about 5 superfoods click here .
To a healthy more beautiful you!
Sandy DeRose
