The foods that we choose to eat affect our health in various ways. Our diet* affects our physical and mental health, it affects us physiologically and determines how quickly our body deteriorates. The saying is a cliche for a reason; in short, “We are what we eat.” So, how do we implement stealth mode, slow down aging, and keep wrinkles at bay? How can we discretely select foods to age gracefully?
We Become What We Eat
Becoming what you eat sounds like the plot for another Jurassic Park movie. But, it’s not. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in every 4 deaths is directly or indirectly related to heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States!
Every time the topic of health comes up, someone references heart disease. In specific, it’s blamed for the majority of deaths in the nation. But, what is heart disease?
Says the CDC, coronary artery disease (heart disease) “is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.” The plaque buildup in your heart is different from the plaque on your teeth, though. In this case, “plaque is made up of deposits of cholesterol and other substances in the artery.” Ultimately, this “buildup causes the inside of the arteries to narrow over time, which could partially or totally block the blood flow.” So, we know what the problem is, but, what can we do?
A Design For Healthy Eating
A study published in The Harvard Gazette “suggests eating more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean poultry, and olive oil.” In addition, the design for healthy eating includes limiting “refined grains, trans fats, red meat, sugary drinks, and processed foods.” Not to mention, “it touts staying active.”
While the article does praise the so-called Mediterranean diet, it places great emphasis on healthy food selection. In specific, “researchers are examining the role of coffee and berries in improving cognitive function and reducing the risks of neurodegenerative diseases.” What’s more, “recent studies have found that a healthy diet can also boost the brain[‘s performance] and slow cellular aging. “
Science, The Body, and Aging
As of 2019, science says the best formula to slow the effects of aging is a mix of regular exercising, a healthy diet, and healthy body weight. In general, avoiding problematic snacks, meals, and treats can help prolong the longevity of your cells. In specific, sugary foods, processed meats with high amounts of preservatives, sodium, and saturated fats are safe to stay away from.
If you’re serious about your anti-aging regimen and preserving your youth, consult your physician. They’ll be able to provide you with a customized plan to keep wrinkles, aging, and most importantly, heart disease at bay.
* The media has popularized the term ‘diet’ to mean a course of eating and exercise designed to cause rapid, and often unhealthy, weight loss. However, in this article, the focus of the term is on its primary definition, “[a] food [or] drink regularly . . . consumed.”—Miriam Webster’s Dictionary © 2019
The information provided herein has been reviewed for accuracy, but cannot be guaranteed to be free of infallalacy. The information herein does not qualify as a diagnosis nor does it substitute a consultation with a licensed physician.
© 2017, 2019 ALLIED MEDICAL AND DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Published: 20170124
Revised: 20191209
