Throughout the years, more and more researches have explored the phenomenon of ageing, looking fervently for ways to delay that process. 

Their efforts have yielded fruits.  

Several studies have revealed a number of ways and habits that can help us remain young and healthy. In the following article, you will discover the most savoury path to longevity.  

A Glass of Red Wine 

Probably the most delicious and sophisticated way to fight off ageing is to frequently enjoy a glass of red wine. Red wine contains large quantities of resveratrol, a natural substance known as phytoalexins.  

Phytoalexins are protective antibiotics produced in plants that boosts their immune system. They are formidable antioxidants, helping the human body detoxify free radicals and repair the damage caused by oxidizing agents, which are widely associated with the ageing process and its visual symptoms. They also boast anti-inflammatory, heart-healthy and anti-cancer properties. Several researchers have also found that frequent resveratrol consumption can prevent atherosclerosis, diabetes, cancer cell maturation and proliferation, mitigate hypertension, lower “bad" LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.  

The skin and seeds of the red grapes are rich in resveratrol, which is also preserved in red wine.  In fact, a study published in 2013 by researchers of the Harvard Medical School confirmed that resveratrol found in red wine does provide anti-ageing benefits, by stimulating the production of SIRT1, a serum that blocks diseases by speeding up the cell's energy production centres known as mitochondria.  

Conclusion? A glass of red wine in your daily diet can be a valuable ally against the relentless passing of time.   

Fermented Foods 

Fermented foods are basically foods produced or preserved by the action of microorganisms. Bacteria feed on the starch and sugar in the food, producing lactic acid, which is a natural preservative, along with several other beneficial enzymes, like Omega-3 fatty acids, b-vitamins and probiotics, which also make the food much easier to digest.  

Some of the most well-known fermented foods are kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, pickles, and probiotic yoghurt.  

How are fermented foods associated with anti-ageing? Aside from being delicious, fermented foods are invaluable for the health of our intestines and stomach and absolutely necessary for digestive health – which, in turn, is of the essence for the well-being of the whole body, especially for our immune system.  

Probiotics and fermented foods are also widely associated with healthy and glowing skin. Recently, this connection was also clinically proven: a healthy level of good bacteria in the gut helps against an array of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, dermatitis, as well as the healing of burns and scars, rejuvenating the skin and boosting its resilience.  

A study published quite recently has critically discussed all available literature regarding the anti-ageing properties of fermented food and has confirmed their anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic and anti-allergenic activities - which, combined, procure anti-ageing benefits.  

Good Fats 

Fats are often vilified, yet some of them are actually beneficial to our body. These “good” fats, including unsaturated fats and omega-3s, can boost our immune system and mental health, fight fatigue, and even control our weight.  

The key lies in understanding the difference between good and bad fats and include the first in our diet. We can find good fats in olive and coconut oils, nuts, avocados, flaxseed, fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, trout, sardines), soybean, and tofu.  

Now, when it comes to healthy ageing and fats, surely not all of them are quite as drastic, but most of them, in one way or another, prove to be energy-boosters, stimulate fat-burning, enhance brain function and normalize blood sugar. Some are also beneficial for our digestive system.  

That is why some nutritionists have described good fat consumption as the biggest secret to long-lasting beauty and vibrancy – especially after considering that our cell membranes are made mostly of fat. Low-fat diets weaken the cell membranes and cause wrinkles to the skin and poor hydration.  

Still, good fats, especially omega-3s, offer much more than good looks. Numerous studies have associated them with the prevention and treatment of depression and bipolar disorder, the protection against dementia, a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and cancer, the mitigation of the symptoms of arthritis and joint pains, as well as with fighting fatigue.  

Optimism  

Optimism and cheerfulness are considered essential in our battle against ageing for centuries, but now science has given us the tools to prove beyond doubt their benefits to our health and good looks.    

For example, a study made by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and published four years ago in the American Journal of Epidemiology showed that having an optimistic outlook on life actually helps people live longer – especially women. The researchers discovered that optimistic participants had a significantly reduced risk of dying from common causes of death over an eight-year period, such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, respiratory disease, and infection, compared with women who were less optimistic. 

Conclusion  

As you probably realized, following the tips described above are far from a chore. Still, for them to have an actual effect in our lives, they must be combined with the absolute basics of a healthy lifestyle:   

• Reducing the quantity and increasing the quality of our food with fish, legumes, organic eggs, some meat, olive oil, leafy vegetables and roots, fruits, nuts, seeds, spices and herbs will enrich our diet and help us fight ageing.  
• Steering clear from sugar, sweets, soft drinks, white bread, pasta, and fruit juices will not only shield our immune system but also help us lose weight and improve our looks.  
• Enjoy at least 6-8 hours of sleep a day.  
• Dine at least 3 hours before bedtime. 

• Drink only filtered water, throughout the day – preferably in small sips.  
• Enjoy the sun but expose parts of your skin directly to sunlight only for half an hour without sunscreen.  
• Fight off stress with relaxation exercises – and a glass of red wine!  

Life is a gift, a privilege – life is a treasure. Hence, we should shield it vigorously and enjoy every moment of it.