Are These Common Habits Aging You?

There are things that you are most likely doing on a regular basis that are rapidly aging you, whether you realize it or not. We all know that smoking cigarettes and indulging in more than a couple of alcoholic beverages a week are the two biggies, but you would be surprised to find that there are other sneaky little habits that will accelerate your aging process.

Beyond the physical signs of aging (wrinkles, sagging skin, puffy eyes, yellow teeth) these habits can have a negative impact on you overall health. Don’t you want to do everything you can to prevent everything I just listed?? Yeah, that’s what I thought. Then read on and see what habits, along with smoking and drinking, you need to kick to the curb.

EATING FAST FOOD

I really can’t stress enough about how what you eat will directly affect the way your body functions on just about every level. When you consume quality, nutrient-dense foods, it not only keeps you looking and feeling younger, but it will also help your body run like a well-oiled machine. However, the exact opposite happens when you eat the chemicals found in most fast food. What chemicals are in fast food? Hydrogenated trans fat that is often found in deep-fried foods, MSG which is a toxic flavor enhancer, and meat that is chock full of hormones and antibiotics.

If you do find yourself stopping at a fast-food place, make smart choices! There are “healthier” fast food places out there that do offer healthier choices – Chipotle, Chick-fil-A, and Panera are good options when you’re in a pinch!

DRINKING SODA

This is just as important as cutting out the fast food. Your typical soda drinks are made with high-fructose corn syrup and highly refined sweetener. High-fructose corn syrup also increases your bad cholesterol levels (LDL) which can contribute to tissue damage, premature aging, obesity, and fatty liver disease.

Think you are doing better for yourself by drinking diet soda? Think again! Diet sodas often contain artificial colors and sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose, which are neurotoxins known to harm your short-term memory and lead to a variety of other ailments (ie Alzheimer’s and chronic fatigue).

POOR STRESS MANAGEMENT

This is something I’m sure we could all use a little work on. This bad habit will actually age you faster than almost everything else. Stress wreaks havoc on your hormones and can lead to health conditions such as – high blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. The way you handle stress is the key to health and longevity. The next time you find yourself overwhelmed, take a few moments for to just breathe. Do something that makes you smile! Whatever will help you recharge your batteries. Trust me, your mind and body will thank you!