There are many factors that influence aging and the awareness of these factors is essential if we are to avoid or at least monitor them. Stress, pollution, drugs, alcohol, cigarette smoking, improper nutrition, lack of sleep and ultra violet radiation play havoc on our lifestyle, which in turn stresses the skin tremendously and causes free radicals to attack the body. Free radical damage contributes greatly to the aging process by destroying healthy cells and damaging tissue. Free radicals are molecules of oxygen with unpaired electrons that desperately roam the body in search of normal healthy cells to latch onto. Once this attachment process takes place, oxidation begins - rather like metal rusting during weather exposure.
Oxidation occurs most readily in fats, therefore cell membranes rich in fat, are prime targets.
Nutrition Proper nutrition is essential for healthy, youthful skin. It is recommended that you eat a wide variety of foods to ensure nutrition needs are met. The daily food pyramid is an important role in helping to achieve a well-balanced diet. This nutritional guideline gives a practical overview of all the food groups and outlines the suggested daily consumption of each. Fats, oils and sweets should be used sparingly, while fruits and vegetables should be consumed as often as possible - at least five servings per day.