My Lunch Box- An Anti-Aging Arsenal.

My Lunch Box- An Anti-Aging Arsenal.

       I have arrived at this place, where my skin needs a lot more pampering then it used too. Blemishes don’t fade as fast, and dry skin isn’t so infrequent. Wrinkles and sagging skin are a real threat to my epidermis. I do not have time during the work week to create a lengthy plan of attack. However, there are a few quick defensive strategies that I use intending to achieve victory. I don’t have the time to blend, peel or cook in the morning.  These tips are economical, effective and time saving. As you are slowing down the aging process, there are also health benefits to following these small steps. As a bonus all suggestions are diary and gluten free.

(All of these products are based upon my experience, always consult your doctor if you have any questions. See links below for research and evidence.)

Water Agua Voda Ma’an- In every culture, humans value the health benefits of water. As we age, our bodies need to be hydrated on the inside and outside. We lose our abilities to retain moisture which causes fine lines and wrinkles to be more apparent. When I do not have enough water throughout the day, my acne indentations are very noticeable as well as any fine lines on my face. My skin looks tired and feels dry. So, drink lots of water, your body and skin will thank you. Buy a water bottle, having accessible water increases your likelihood to drink more. Avoid straws, over time it increases the lines around your mouth.

Supplements:

Collagen: A very buzzworthy word right now. I started taking Collagen supplements in my mid-twenties, once I learned the production of collagen decreases as we age. After water, collagen is the most abundant substance in our body. Research suggests at the age of 40 our bodies ability to produce collagen decreases by 25%.   The loss of collagen affects us in the form of wrinkles and loose skin. Besides the aesthetics, collagen directly impacts our joints. There are approximately 28 different types of collagen. Type 1 &3 are taken together with vitamin C to ensure collagen absorption.

What I use:

Neocell Super Collagen+C Type 1 and 3 Tablet (6000mg) – Gluten Free, Soy Free, Plus Vitamin C Tablet for Reducing Fine lines. https://amzn.to/2HJlNXm

This supplement comes in a brown container with coated pills that are easy to swallow. It should be taken three times a day, on an empty stomach for optimal benefits. It includes vitamin C, making it easy to grab and take on the go. After drinking water, it is the first thing I take in the morning. These supplements are supposed to reduce fine lines and wrinkles.  Improve the elasticity in the skin, strengthen nail beds and thicken hair. My use of this product is a preventative measure towards wrinkles and sagging skin. My nail beds have strengthened, and my hair loss has decreased dramatically. After my children it helped to curb the rapid hair loss. I have used this product for, four years consistently. It is not expensive and easy to order on Amazon Prime.

Most people have heard about green tea and its awesome benefits. White tea is like its hotter, younger sister. However, once it is mentioned, it can create utter confusion. White tea is like green tea, but it is picked earlier and is processed less. Thus, making it higher in antioxidants than green tea and much more potent. White tea is believed to stop the break down of collagen and elastin. The two things that can lead to sagging skin. It is also supposed to contain anti-cancer properties. ECGC, an antioxidant that helps against free radicals that damages our bodies DNA. Heart disease, cancer and neurological disorders are countered by drinking white tea. Thus, making it my tea of choice.

This is how I do it-

Emperor’s 100% White Tea Bags

This tea is low in caffeine, 0 calories and steeped for 2-3 minutes.

I also add a lemon slice, it contributes to delaying the aging process and the onset of diseases like cancer. Adding lemon to tea, increases the bodies ability to absorb tea. Aides in detox and weight loss.  Adding lemon, honey and a cinnamon stick is a great weight loss combination in addition to skin care. White tea is not as flavorful as other teas, this combo adds to the taste.

This is my favorite brand of White Tea Bags. It can be purchased at Whole Foods as well.

A Carrot a Day Keeps the Botox Away?

Carrots contain Vitamin A, as do mangoes, deep green veggies and fruits. Carrots are the most convenient on the go snack that is low in calories and high in fiber. It fills you up and helps maintains healthy skin. It prevents acne and wrinkling.  It is raw, organic, pre- packaged and readily available in grocery stores.  My fave carrots are Trader Joe’s Organic Cut and Peeled Carrots.

Blueberries to treat the Aging Blues.

Blueberries contain antioxidants, it curbs the body’s biological process against aging. Like other antioxidants blueberries helps the body fight against cancer and heart disease. It also helps coordination, balance and memory which also weakens through aging.  Consumption of this antioxidant rich fruit also slows down the aging process. No peeling required, just grab handful to wash and go.

 Tall Dark and Yummy-   

Dark Chocolate that is about 70-85% contains many health benefits in moderation. It has a lot of organic compounds that can fight against free radicals (bad guys).  Dark chocolate contains more antioxidants than blue berries! If you are considering a beach vacation, you may want to increase your consumption of dark chocolate. Flavanols can protect against sun damage and increase hydration. So, keep a bar in your desk and indulge in a square or two as a snack. Whilst savoring your square, remember dark chocolate decreases ones’ risk of cardiovascular disease, decreases blood pressure and improves brain function. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00654NRG4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=itsthebalanci-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B00654NRG4&linkId=d1ca06605c1750bd659f5bc7c0f3d01a

References/Evidence

Water:

https://www.symbiotics.com/benefits-using-reusable-water-bottle/

https://www.livestrong.com/article/320933-drinking-water-skin-wrinkles/

Collagen:

https://www.renewalliance.com/blog/top-3-collagen-treatments-proven-to-reduce-wrinkles-and-sagging-skin

White Tea:

https://www.teatulia.com/tea-varieties/what-is-white-tea.htm

https://www.livestrong.com/article/440614-weight-loss-from-lemon-honey-cinnamon/

https://www.truelemon.com/blog/the-simplest-anti-aging-tip-ever/

Carrots:

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cravings/200906/carrot-day-keeps-the-wrinkles-away

Blueberries:

https://www.nytimes.com/1999/09/21/health/blueberries-may-reduce-effects-of-aging.html

Dark Chocolate:

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-dark-chocolate#section6

http://hyper.ahajournals.org/content/60/3/794.short

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