5 foods that make you age faster

Here are some key foods to avoid to help prevent premature aging

Lots of factors play into how fast you age, and this can show on your face. While genetics obviously can have a big role in the aging process, there are still plenty of things you can control to slow down the signs of aging.

Avoiding smoking, sun exposure, and an unhealthy diet makes a huge difference. Premature aging can not only cause aches and pains, it can also leave your body open for chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer. Even though we never want to look old, most of us still really want the chance to grow old.

Taking charge of your diet now can help you stay young on the inside and the outside! It is probably no surprise that healthy eating includes lots of fruits and vegetables coupled with reasonable portions of lean meat.

Here are some foods to avoid for a more youthful body, as compiled by Hearty Aging.

1. Margarine 

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Margarine is packed with trans fats, raising your risk of chronic disease. It also messes with the hydration level of your body. Chronic dehydration is a prime driver of wrinkles, which is definitely an unwanted consequence. Additionally, margarine contains a high level of omega-6 fatty acids. While your body needs some of these, it’s easy to absorb too much, which tends to create inflammation in the stomach.

2. Convenience foods 

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We get it, life is busy. Cooking fresh meals every day can feel like an insurmountable challenge. Many microwave meals and packaged dishes that make mealtime easier are actually hiding a decidedly unhealthy secret – salt, and lots of it.

Many of us get too much salt in our diets. Sodium can cause water retention and make you look and feel bloated. If healthy cooking really doesn’t fit into your schedule, explore a healthy meal delivery service instead.

3. Energy drinks 

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If you feel like you need energy drinks to power through your day, get to bed earlier each night! Improving your sleep works wonders to help you feel and look younger, but energy drinks do just the opposite. They are high in sugar, caffeine, sodium, and acid. That deadly combo will damage and stain your teeth as well as contribute to dehydration.

4. Sugary treats 

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Sugar is probably the number one enemy when it comes to premature aging. It is packed into all sorts of foods at simply unconscionable levels, so we are eating it all day long even when the food itself isn’t a dessert. It’s a huge problem, because sugar is the biggest driver of obesity and inflammation, not to mention tooth decay.

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Eating too much sugar sets up a perfect environment in your body for chronic disease. Not only does it contribute to the development of diabetes, but sugar is the favourite fuel of cancer cells. And sadly, cutting out sweet treats like baked goods, candy, and sodas is crucial if you want to maintain your youthful appearance.

5. High Glycemic Index Carbs

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Breads and pastas made with refined white flour are high on the glycemic index, meaning that they spike your blood sugar quickly. That sets you up for a high and a crash, a cycle that can definitely show on your face. Refined carbs have been proven to accelerate the skin’s aging and cause blemishes like acne and rosacea.

Instead, eat whole wheat products. They fill you up better than the refined stuff, plus they can lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of chronic illnesses including type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

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