Discover five key aging hallmarks and simple ways to fight them with sex, chocolate, and better sleep for a healthier life.
New York: Aging is a natural part of life, but who wouldn’t want to slow it down a bit? In 2023, researchers highlighted 12 main “hallmarks of aging.” Understanding these can help us stay healthier as we age.
Dr. Michael Aziz dives into these hallmarks in his book, “The Ageless Revolution.” He shared five of them with The Post, along with some easy tips to help us fight back. Think more chocolate, better sleep, and a fulfilling sex life.
First up, proteins. As we age, the quality of our proteins drops, which can lead to health issues. Dr. Aziz compares it to having employees who frequently call in sick, leaving others overworked. To tackle this, he suggests intermittent fasting. Skipping breakfast can help your body clean out those faulty proteins.
Next, let’s talk stem cells. These little guys help repair damage in our bodies, but we lose them as we age. To keep them around longer, Dr. Aziz recommends antioxidants found in dark chocolate and black tea. Who knew chocolate could be so good for you?
Then there are telomeres, the protective caps on our chromosomes. They shorten as we age, which can stop cell regeneration. To help, Dr. Aziz suggests getting more vitamin D, fish oil, and yes, enjoying a good sex life. Less stress means longer telomeres!
Now, onto mitochondria, the energy powerhouses of our cells. As they malfunction, we feel more tired. Dr. Aziz emphasizes the importance of good sleep hygiene. Aim for seven to eight hours of quality sleep to keep those batteries charged.
Finally, gut health is crucial for longevity. Dr. Aziz points out that many of us aren’t eating enough fermented foods or veggies, which can harm our gut bacteria. He recommends adding foods like kimchi, yogurt, and kombucha to your diet for better gut health.
