However, before age catches up with you, your daily habits might be nudging you towards premature ageing.
But before we get to these habits, understand...What is premature ageing?
Various factors contribute to premature ageing, including genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures.
Dr Nukala says that consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to premature ageing.
Foods such as berries, nuts, and fatty fish help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key contributors to premature ageing.
We all dream of discovering the fountain of youth, don't we? We wish for our skin to remain as plump as a teenager's and to never hear the creak of our bones when lifting something off the floor, thinking, "Damn, I feel old."
However, before age catches up with you, your daily habits might be nudging you towards premature ageing. Yes, you read that right. Some of the things you do regularly could be responsible for ageing you faster than you'd like. But before we get to these habits, understand...
What is premature ageing?
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"Premature ageing, also known as accelerated ageing, refers to the early onset of age-related physical and physiological changes in individuals, typically before the age of 40," says Dr Sudeep Khanna, senior consultant, gastroenterologist, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, New Delhi, tells India Today.
This phenomenon can result in a decline in physical and mental health, leading to a reduced quality of life.
Various factors contribute to premature ageing, including genetic predispositions, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures.
Know the signs
"Wrinkles and fine lines are the most common signs of premature ageing, where you start to experience the appearance of lines around your mouth, forehead, and eyes," says Dr Rinky Kapoor, a Delhi-based dermatologist from The Esthetic Clinics.
Age spots are also a sign. These are a type of dark spot often caused by harmful UV rays and sun exposure.
Further, Dr Bhavana Nukala, consultant dermatologist at CARE Hospitals, Hyderabad, goes on to share some more signs of premature ageing:
Dry or thin skin : Skin that appears drier and thinner than normal.
: Skin that appears drier and thinner than normal. Loss of skin elasticity : Skin that is less firm and more prone to sagging.
: Skin that is less firm and more prone to sagging. Hair changes : Premature greying or thinning of hair.
: Premature greying or thinning of hair. Decreased energy levels : Feeling more fatigued and less energetic.
: Feeling more fatigued and less energetic. Joint pain: Stiffness or discomfort in the joints.
Adding to this, Dr Khanna shares, "Individuals may experience fatigue, decreased muscle mass, decreased bone density, decreased cognitive function, and reduced immune function. Other signs of ageing include decreased libido and deteriorating eyesight."
The doctor also shares that oral health is significantly affected by premature ageing. Tooth loss, xerostomia (dry mouth), weakened muscles of mastication, and a reduction in taste buds all contribute to reduced oral intake. Don't miss the sings of premature ageing (Photo: Getty Images)
Habits you need to get rid of
Following a poor diet: It is very important to monitor what you are putting in your body. Dr Nukala says that consuming a diet high in processed foods, sugar, and unhealthy fats can lead to premature ageing. Not sleeping enough: Lack of sleep is closely linked to premature ageing in several ways. During sleep, the body repairs and regenerates skin cells. Lack of sleep disrupts this process. Not just this, but chronic sleep deprivation can weaken your immune response. Inadequate sleep can also lead to increased inflammation in the body. Excessive sun exposure: "Daily habits like not using SPF while stepping outdoors can potentially hamper your skin health," mentions Dr Kapoor, adding, "Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays can damage your skin's natural barrier, causing age spots and wrinkles." Smoking: Dr Khanna says that smoking introduces toxins into the body that damage skin cells and reduce elasticity, leading to wrinkles and age spots. Excessive alcohol consumption: According to Dr Khanna, "Excessive alcohol consumption dehydrates the skin and damages the liver, contributing to an overall decline in health and accelerated ageing." Taking too much stress: Dr Nukala states that chronic stress can take a toll on your body. It increases the production of cortisol, a hormone that can break down collagen and elastin in the skin. Additionally, stress increases the production of free radicals, unstable molecules that damage cells and contribute to ageing. Not exercising: A sedentary lifestyle contributes to ageing and health problems. Exercise improves cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving blood circulation. However, lack of physical activity is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. You should note that without exercise, muscle atrophy can also occur, leading to decreased physical strength, mobility issues, and a higher risk of falls and fractures. Ditching skincare: Dr Kapoor explains that skincare plays a crucial role, so you are more likely to experience early onset of premature ageing if you don't use appropriate skincare products to maintain your skin health. Neglecting skincare routines or using harsh products can lead to early signs of ageing.
What to do if you notice the signs?
Dr Kapoor says that premature ageing can be a cause for concern as you may start to become insecure about your facial features.
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"If it makes you worried, consulting a dermatologist can be helpful. They might closely examine your skin and give expert advice on how to slow down ageing or at least reduce its visibility," she adds.
Meanwhile, Dr Nukala mentions that if you notice signs of early ageing, you must monitor your diet and improve your sleep habits. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can also help.
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Dr Khanna goes on to add that regular health monitoring is essential to address issues like delayed gastric emptying and increased prevalence of atrophic gastritis, which increases susceptibility to mucosal damage.
"It's also important to manage small bowel bacterial overgrowth, chronic diarrhoea, low weight, malnutrition, and constipation in the large intestine. By addressing these gastrointestinal health issues, you can mitigate some of the effects of premature ageing and improve your overall well-being," mentions the doctor. Don't shy away from consulting a professional when you notice the signs of early ageing (Photo: Getty Images)
Now, here are some tips to push back ageing
Maintaining a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids is essential.
Foods such as berries, nuts, and fatty fish help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key contributors to premature ageing.
Regular physical activity, such as aerobic exercises and strength training, is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and cardiovascular health.
Staying hydrated and engaging in mentally stimulating activities also contribute to pushing back the ageing process, promoting both physical and cognitive health.
Add skincare products that include ingredients like hyaluronic acid (hydrates your skin), retinol (repairs your skin from within), Vitamin C (boosts collagen production), niacinamide (reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles), and ceramides (to lock moisture in your skin) to your routine.
Try avoiding skincare ingredients like parabens, benzoyl peroxide, alcohol, and synthetic ingredients as they can be harsh on your skin.
Published By: Mehak Malhotra Published On: Jul 2, 2024
