Eat Well and Age Well: How Healthy Diet, Exercise Plan Can Help You

We age. It's inevitable and natural. Can we slow the rate at which we age? Is it possible to get older and not show all the signs of aging? Many believe we can.

Have you heard, "You are what you eat?" That saying is quite true. You are what you eat and your aging process is governed by your diet as well. If you keep your diet in check, then you keep your health in check. And if that is all in check, then you can slow the aging process.

Our diet can affect the causes of aging, such as a lowered metabolic rate, loss of energy, reduced hormone levels, reduced immune function, and so on. Certain foods can help to rejuvenate your immune system and energy levels, as well as reduce your risk of heart disease.

So, what kinds of foods can help to reverse the aging process? A diet rich in oily fish, vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables, such as tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, and berries, and lean meats are foods that make you healthy and even younger. Stay away from starches, like white bread and pasta, and add as much whole grains as you can to your diet. Instead of sugary soda, you should reach for a glass of black or green tea or even fruit or vegetable juice, which supplies the body with antioxidant benefits. Chocolate and sweets can be the downfall of many, but it is now proven that dark chocolate in moderation can provide health benefits. Bad carbohydrates, candy, desserts, etc. can raise blood sugar levels. Low-index foods, such as good carbohydrates found in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, ensure your body has a slow and steady release of sugar throughout the day. That way, you don't experience that great sugar high followed by the dreadful slump.

Foods are not the fountain of youth, but certain foods can push the clock of life back a few notches. Nuts contain high levels of vitamin E. It's been proven and studied that nuts can reduce the rsik of stroke. There are many nuts to choose from -- almonds and walnuts are good choices and contain omega-3s, vitamin E and antioxidants. Legumes may not be high on your favorite food list but you should consider adding them to your diet. They help steady blood insulin levels and are high in fiber. So at your next barbeque, chow down on some beans. According to the American Heart Association, fish holds omega-3 fats that reduce the risk of plaque buildup; decrease blood triglyceride (fat) levels; help lower blood pressure; and even lessen the odds of sudden death. Try to shoot for two fish meals a week. Good choices are salmon, sardines and canned tuna.

We all know exercise keeps us fit and healthy. Exercise can also reverse the aging process by boosting our metabolism, building muscle, and keeping us toned. When we age, we lose muscle mass, lower our metabolisms, and increase body fat, so exercise is vital to keeping you young. Exercises like weightlifting can build muscle strength and tone the body. Walking can help burn fat and doesn't put stress on your joints. The great thing about walking is it can be intensive as you make it. Walking can be done on your own, as a family activity, or with friends.