5 things that make you age faster

Hoping to keep your youthful skin, flexible joints, and sharp mind even as the years pass by?

One of the best ways to age gracefully is to avoid the things that make you age FASTER.

Like these top 5:

1️⃣ Smoking

Smoking cigarettes increases free radicals and MMPs (matrix metalloproteinases), which cause the degradation of collagen and elastin—leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.

2️⃣ Excess Sun

Overexposure to UV rays is a major cause of free radical damage to the skin and the telltale signs of aging—including wrinkles, blotchiness, and age spots.

3️⃣ Lack of Sleep

A UCLA study found that a single night of partial sleep deprivation activated genes related to biological aging. Lack of sleep can contribute to inflammation, memory loss, and mood changes with age.

4️⃣ Being Sedentary

Movement and exercise are critical for fending off age-related declines in bone density and muscle mass. Exercise also supports heart health, brain function, better sleep, and more.

5️⃣ Stress!!!!!

Stress interacts with many of the mechanisms of aging—including blood sugar regulation, inflammation, hormonal changes, and shortening of telomeres.

I have one more post coming your way in this series on healthy aging. I’ll let you in on my favorite supplements to keep you looking and feeling your best with age.

See you then!

-Dr. Solinger