Table of Contents
We all know that there are certain foods that we should avoid. Processed foods, foods high in fat, fried foods...these can all wreak havoc on the body. Not only will they cause weight gain, lack of energy, a weakened immune system and an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels, but they can also speed up the aging process.
Sugar
Sugar is one of the most damaging foods to the body. It’s well known that sugar can lead to excess weight gain and an increased risk of diabetes, but some of its other damaging effects are not well known. Sugar can initiate a chronic inflammatory response in the body, leading to increased risk for a host of medical conditions. Because it can wreak havoc on the entire body, sugar accelerates the aging process. But not all sugar is created equal. While you want to stay away from table sugar, syrups, dextrose, fructose, glucose and any processed sugar, you can treat yourself to naturally occurring sugars such as those founds in fresh fruits.
Hydrogenated Fats / Trans-Fats
With the exception of healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids, just about all other fats are a big no-no when it comes to aging and overall health n general. Artificial fats, such as hydrogenated fats and trans-fats, are at the top of the list of unhealthy foods. And for good reason. These unhealthy fats can lead to chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, obesity an elevated cholesterol levels. They can be found in fried foods, processed foods, commercially prepared baked foods, and fast food. Top offenders include deep fried foods, margarine, vegetable shortening and partially hydrogenated oils. When buying processed foods, always rad the food labels to determine if they contain these unhealthy fats.
Processed and Packaged Foods
Right there with unhealthy fats is processed and packaged foods. Whole foods are a staple in a healthy diet. Unfortunately, many Americans consume a diet that consists of too many processed foods. Processed foods include those foods that are highly altered form their original state, such as packaged foods, refined grains, pasteurized dairy and processed meats. Whole grains are brimming with nutrition, however, when grains are refined, they lose almost all of their nutritional value. After all the nutrients are stripped during processing, the grains are nutritionally bankrupt and can have the same damaging effects as sugar that can contribute to the aging process. Also known to accelerate aging is the addition of nitrates and preservatives to meats. Dairy products that have been pasteurized can also speed up aging. The process involves heating the dairy products to kill of bacteria. Unfortunately, the high heat also kills off digestive enzymes and renders at last half of the calcium un-absorbable.
Alcohol
While the occasional glass of red wine or beer isn’t necessarily detrimental to an otherwise healthy person, anything beyond moderate alcohol intake can lead to inflammation of the liver and esophagus. There are many studies that suggest that one glass of wine per day can have beneficial effects on the heart, but this doesn’t mean you should go out and take up drinking if you aren’t currently doing so. While alcohol in moderation seems to be okay, the damaging effects of high consumption levels can lead to an accelerated rate of aging. Not only can it damage internal organs, but it can lead to por skin quality and premature aging of the skin.