We all age: an unfortunate but natural truth. How quickly and how gracefully we age is the key distinguishing factor amongst those who stay young and those who do not. If you ask my 92 year old Grandma, she would tell you that age is just a number and to feel young you have to feel younger than the age you are….to that she told me she feels like she’s 90!
All kidding aside; aging is a serious matter. With an increasing number of baby boomers approaching retirement and a population poised for increased cases of dementia, Alzheimer’s and age related mental illnesses it is important to take time to reflect on what one can do to prevent and slow down the aging of not only our bodies but our minds as well.
For those who cannot remember long lists of details; I’ve compiled the A-B-Cs of my anti aging program for your convenience.
A: Antioxidants
B: B12 and Folic Acid
C: Challenge the Mind
Antioxidant rich foods and supplements retard the oxidation of our cells. Free radical damage is more than just skin deep; cellular slow down occurs as a result of aging but also due to a lack of antioxidants. Pumping up your diet with rich, leafy greens, dark veggies, low sodium and high fiber can ensure you promote your cellular regeneration. Taking supplements like Vitamins C(Ester form) & E Grape Seed Extract, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Acetyl L-Carnitine and Selenium are key as we age.
B12 and Folic Acid have been linked to decreased energy but also decreased mental function. According to a new study published in the Archives of Neurology offers further insight to the belief that diets high in folic acid (folate) may be associated with a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Columbia University researchers followed the diets of over 900 senior citizens for six years. They found that individuals with the highest intake of folate were the least likely to subsequently develop Alzheimer’s. Interestingly, folate from both food sources and from supplements were included. Folic Acid is suggested to be supplemented together with B12. A few foods rich in Folic Acid are Brewers Yeast, Wheat Germ, Soy Beans, Lentils, Spinach, Kale, Peanut Butter and Kale.
Challenging the mind is essential to maintaining good mental health. “The research is clear on this issue: challenging your mind on a regular basis helps to lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease,” says Dr. Andrew Weil, author of Healthy Aging: Your Lifelong Guide to Physical and Spiritual Well-Being. Puzzling (Cross words, Sudoku), a positive mental outlook and keeping the mind engaged is absolutely essential to slow aging. Think young to be and feel young.
And too, don’t forget your omega fatty acids!
Melissa Gallagher is the founder and president of Healthy Being, LLC. She is currently completing her Doctorate of Naturopathy and CNHP (Certification for Natural Health Practitioner) and fell upon natural health and healing as a means to combat a severe case of mono she had over 4 years ago. Ms. Gallagher’s passion is in her ability to coach and council her clients in best practices for superior healthy. Currently undergoing the trademark process is her Healthy Living Consulting business where Ms. Gallagher works with clients in their offices or homes and sculpts individualized, targeted programs that address their health concerns.
In addition to individualized health consulting Healthy Being launched Healthy Being in a Box: a product line that produces specific kits that contain a variety of specific vitamins and supplements, homeopathic products and herbal remedies that target various ailments and health concerns. For more details please visit our blog at http://healthybeings.blogspot.com
