Aging is a natural part of life, one that we shouldn’t regret. However, what we eat and the way we live throughout when we’re younger can have a big impact on our twilight years. Staying healthy, remaining positive, and treating the body well will only help you age slower and more gracefully. Below are a few holistic anti-aging tips for men that can also help you feel and look great.
Drink Plenty of Water
This tip is mentioned a lot, and for good reason. Water is essential for hydrating our cells, improving organ function, and cleaning toxins out of the body. Water is also vital for healthy skin, as it requires proper hydration to maintain its elasticity and youthful appearance.
While you may think you are getting water through other beverages like tea, coffee, or soda, caffeine and sugar can also cause dehydration, so it’s best to drink plenty of pure water throughout the day.
Eat Sensibly & In Moderation
While this is another common suggestion, eating well throughout life is important when it comes to aging. Eating in moderation will help prevent obesity and hypertension and a sensible diet also contributes to healthy immunity.
Eating well is especially important when it comes to fruits and vegetables, as studies have shown that high consumption of vitamins and minerals can support collagen, elastin, and skin health. If anti-aging is important to you in terms of appearance, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will go a long way.
Increase Mobility & Stretching Exercises
Exercise is another important anti-aging tip; however, what is often missed, especially when it comes to men, is the importance of stretching. Slower activities such as yoga, Pilates, or Tai Chi are fantastic for keeping your joints mobile and for improving flexibility. Because our joints and muscles weaken as we age, regular stretching can strengthen them as well as improve blood flow, circulation, and mobility. Keeping your joints active and limber into later years will help prevent your body from becoming stiff and weak.
Get Regular Check-Ups
Prevention is often the best medicine; therefore, getting regular check-ups with your doctors and health providers is important as you age. While this obviously includes annual physicals with your doctor and a visit to your dentist, did you know that your eyes require regular care, too? Seeing an optometrist each year, for example, can help you maintain the health of your eyes to improve your sight. You can also catch age-related conditions such as cataracts early on and ask your eye doctor about the benefits of cataract surgery and other treatments before it’s too late.
Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is essential for recovery and repair, making it an important anti-aging tip. Studies have shown that even losing 1 or 2 hours of sleep a night regularly can cause increased heart problems, as well as reduced immunity, metabolism, and cognitive function. Sleep-deprived men have also been shown to have a 29% reduced sperm count. These factors will only age you faster and lead to ill health, so prioritize sleep and reduce stress where possible.
Positivity & Self-Care
Another important element of anti-aging is to engage in positivity and self-care. Negative emotions and stress can lead to ill health in the body, causing you to also look older than you are. A positive outlook can boost your resilience, create less tension in the body, and help you ward off illness. Research has also shown that positivity can result in an 11-15% longer lifespan.