Getting older is an inevitable, unavoidable part of the human life cycle. Fortunately, we have some say in how we go about aging. There are two different types of aging: extrinsic and intrinsic. Intrinsic aging is predetermined by our genetics. Unfortunately, these intrinsic aging factors are uncontrollable. Intrinsic aging unfolds over time at a predetermined pace. On the other hand, extrinsic aging returns to us the balance of power. In fact, extrinsic aging factors are far more powerful than our uncontrollable genetic factors. A person's lifestyle choices, such as, eating habits, smoker/non-smoker, amount of sun exposure, to name a few are extrinsic aging factors.
As one ages, collagen production decreases in the body. For women, this decrease in collagen production is heightened by menopause. Preventing collagen loss and facilitating the production of new collagen is an imperative first step to maintaining healthy looking skin. Collagen makes up 97.5% of the protein of the dermis skin layer, while elastin makes up the last 2.5%. The body is constantly being renewed, but as we age this renewal process slows down causing the skin to lose its ability to replace old collagen. The slower renewal process opens the door to fine lines and wrinkles.
Enhancing collagen production can be accomplished in a number of ways. The first step in the process is prevention. Understand that lifestyle choices will determine how well you ward off the loss of collagen. Unhealthy eating habits, excessive sun exposure, and smoking will undoubtedly advance collagen loss. Smoking, especially, hinders the body's ability to generate collagen. Some case studies indicate that collagen synthesis is 18% lower in smokers than in non-smokers.
After prevention, the focus should be on a diet filled with nutrients that are essential for collagen production, like vitamin C. Signs of vitamin C deficiencies are bleeding gums, poor wound healing, and skin hemorrages. Change your diet to include these vitamin C rich foods:
Vegetables: leafy green vegetables, broccoli, asparagus, cabbage,parsley, tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and brussel sprouts
Fruits: all fruits, especially cranberries, kiwi, papaya, and melons
Many of the factors determining the rate at which you age are controllable. Prevent rapid collagen losses by making some lifestyle changes (stop smoking) and then include more vitamin c rich foods in your diet. Also, reduce stress and apply a antiwrinkle cream for those fine lines. Beautiful skin can be yours.
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