Take Charge of Your Youth , Part 1

One of the most glorious realities of modern medical science has been the recognition that we have enormous control over the rate at which we age.  Indeed, only about 25% of the process is dictated by your genes – which means the remaining 75% is largely determined by YOU and the dietary and lifestyle choices you make over your lifetime.

The 4 key facets to triumph on the anti-aging front are:  1.) maximizing flood flow (healthy arteries) 2.) minimizing oxidation 3.) minimizing inflammation 4.) maintaining insulin sensitivity.  What follows are the most effective strategies for achieving success.  As an added bonus, these age-defying interventions will not only add years to your life, but life to your years!

1. Strictly avoid trans fats and oxidized fats. Both are potent drivers of inflammation and oxidation, clog arteries and impair insulin sensitivity. Trans fats are found in processed foods containing partially hydrogenated oils, margarine and shortening. Oxidized fats can be found in deep fried foods, smoking oil, and rancid (stale) oils/fats.

2. Minimize consumption of omega 6 oils – corn, safflower, sunflower, cottonseed, peanut and soybean oil.  Please note that these oils are frequently found in margarines, mayo, salad dressing and other processed foods. These oils promote inflammation in your body by raising the omega 6/omega3 ratio. Instead, use canola oil and olive oil, both are low in omega 6 fatty acids.

3. Minimize your intake of arachidonic acid. Red meat and whole dairy products are the richest dietary sources of this potent, pro-inflammatory substance.

Click here for Part 2

For more on the right foods, check out my book.

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