It’s simple science: if we eat healthy food, our skin and bodies will look and feel better for it. As we age and our skin loses its elasticity, volume, and luminosity. However, substituting certain age-accelerating foods with better options can help avoid problems associated with aging.
Here are eight foods and drinks that can speed up your aging, along with some great alternatives.
Artificial Sweeteners
Although they lack the calories in regular sugar, studies have shown that artificial sweeteners can desensitize your taste buds, causing you to crave sweeter foods to satisfy your cravings. In addition, people who consume artificial sweeteners regularly, like in diet soda drinks, actually gain weight compared to individuals who don’t ingest them. These sweeteners are also related to a higher risk of Type 2 Diabetes. So instead, switch out those artificial sweeteners for natural sweeteners, like fruit, or simply go without the extra sugar altogether!
Microwave Popcorn
Many of us can’t resist this buttery, crunchy snack, but microwave popcorn bags actually contain perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a toxin also found in teflon pots and pans and considered a carcinogen by the EPA. Instead, ditch the bag and eat popcorn prepared with natural oil or in an air popper.
Carbonated Water
Flavored fizzy water drinks like LaCroix all the rage at the moment, but consuming that added air can cause gas and bloating of your abdomen, making it look rounder and larger. Instead of downing these beverages, stick to still water flavored with your favorite fruit.
Soy Milk
Although soy is considered a health food by some, in reality it’s not that good for you. Soy contains phytoestrogens, which can mimic human estrogen and cause hormonal issues and skin problems like acne. In men, it may even lead to increased breast tissue (Moobs). Ninety percent of soy is GMO, which means the plant was likely sprayed with chemical herbicides like glyphosate – a known carcinogen. So instead of drinking soy milk, switch to unsweetened organic almond milk.
Fruit Juice
Fruit juice can have an abundance of age-fighting antioxidants. However, because the fiber is removed, the body absorbs the juice’s sugars quickly, resulting in sugar spikes. These sugar spikes can result in inflammation. Therefore, substitute your fruit juice for blended smoothies where the fiber remains intact. Green smoothies are even better, as the added vegetables can supercharge your drink with powerful antioxidants and phytonutrients.
Banana Chips
While banana chips contain potassium and fiber, they’re often deep fried. This can add unnecessary saturated fat into your diet. Opt for fresh bananas instead.
Packaged Tea Drinks
Tea contains powerful antioxidants, but often these packaged drinks are loaded with high fructose corn syrup and preservatives. Although the iced teas in your gas station cooler are better for you than soda pop, the better choice would be to steep your own tea and chill it in the refrigerator.
Baked Beans
Beans are generally healthy – they contain fiber, protein, and antioxidants- but baked beans often contain added sugar, molasses, and fatty processed meats like bacon, hot dogs, and salted pork. These meats are considered Group 1 carcinogens by the World Health Organization. For a better option, switch to regular beans and soak them overnight prior to cooking or eating them.
With some simple food switches, you can receive the nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and feeling young. If you find these simple switches helpful, please feel free to download my free eBook, What To Eat To Look Younger, by visiting my website at www.dryoun.com.