As people age it becomes more and more difficult to maintain a healthy body image. This downside to aging impacts both men and women. Today more and more people are fighting back with anti-aging regiments and some of them really do work.
Men and Women Aging
As we get older maintaining a healthy weight becomes a little more challenging. For women the most significant change in weight tends to take place in the years leading up to menopause. This is due to hormonal changes, genetics, and the fact that women tend to exercise less at this stage of their lives. As men hit middle age their metabolism slows down and their testosterone levels can decrease leading to muscle loss and weight gain.
The Natural Aging Process
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Dry skin and wrinkles are part of the natural aging process too. Wrinkles form as a result of aging because after 20-years-old we produce approximately 1 per cent less collagen in the skin each year. As the years pass, the skin becomes thinner and more damaged. Environmental exposure will also determine just how damaged our skin becomes. As we grow older we also experience a reduction in melanin which causes grey hair to develop.
There is no way to escape the aging process; however, there are ways to get a good body image over the age of 50. It is all a matter of what you put inside and outside your body.
Anti-Aging Tools
Exercise is important at any age and to get the best possible body image over 50 being physically active is a must. The Mayo Clinic suggests participating in some kind of aerobic activity for 30 minutes each day to maintain a healthy weight. They also suggest doing strength training exercises at least twice a week. If you want to lose weight then you may have to intensify your routine.
Maintaining a regular exercise routine is just the beginning; you also need to eat sensibly. Many people in their 50’s find that they require fewer calories than they did in their 30’s and 40’s. You may have to shave as much as 200 calories off your menu each day. Avoid junk food, which is associated with high cholesterol, diabetes, and heart disease. Think about including lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains in your diet. Including olive oil and canola oil in your diet is also a good option. Some people also believe they help give your skin radiance.
Youthful skin or the desire to maintain it is big business in North America. The market is flooded with so called magic anti-aging formulas promising to keep you looking young. Dermatologists suggest you stick with the basics to protect your skin and limit the impact of aging.
RELATED READING: Aging Brain – The Specific Gene That Causes It
Exfoliation is an important part of an anti-aging routine for both men and women over 50. At this stage in a person’s life the skin becomes dry and exfoliation removes dead skin cells, exposing the pores and allowing for moisturizer to penetrate properly. The moisturizers can’t prevent wrinkles but a good quality lotion does help mask fine lines.
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When your skin is exposed to the sunlight, it speeds up the aging process so using a good sun block every day, including in the fall and winter is important. Dermatologists say the number one reason for signs of aging in the skin is overexposure to the sun.
If you’re concerned about your skin as you age, avoid smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke. Research shows that smoking causes narrowing of the blood vessels in the skin. It can also damage collagen.
Your Body-Your Life
How you feel about your body image can be deeply personal. If you are struggling with your feelings or are having difficulty attaining the image you want, don’t take drastic measures…follow the safe options outlined here and talk to your physician about your daily routine.
