7 Steps for looking better (from the inside out)

We all know that it’s what’s on the INSIDE that counts. So, taking care of your health and inner becomes the basis of how young we look . Beauty truly does come from within in more ways than one. According to Dr. Myron Wentz and Dave Wentz there are a things that we can do on a cellular level to improve the way that we look and feel.

Diet
Your skin is your largest and most visible organ, yet it is the last to receive nutrients from the body. Keep your skin healthy (and looking good) by eating foods rich in protein and healthy fats. Healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, along with key amino acids and protein, are crucial for collagen formation and cell repair. Lean meats like chicken and fish, along with avocado, nuts, and olive oil, provide these critical nutrients. Additionally, foods high in antioxidants, such as dark berries and leafy greens, help fight against free radicals that cause oxidative damage to your cells.

Water
Aside from eating right, you should also stay hydrated. Why? Your body is made up of more than 10 trillion cells, and they all need water to operate at an optimal level. Water helps your cells keep their shape, and acts as a conduit for healthy, necessary biochemical processes within your cells to take place. Our bodies are more than 60 percent water, so replenishing lost fluids throughout the day is necessary for healthy cells and glowing, healthy skin. There are many sports drinks and fruit juices out there claiming to “rehydrate,”but purified water is best. Drink eight to 12 eight-ounce cups of water a day.

Supplements
If you are like the average American adult, you are not getting the nutrients your body requires to function at its best. Poor eating habits consisting of processed, fatty, sugary foods can lead to many health concerns, including erratic blood sugar levels and obesity. Even if you try your best to eat the freshest fruits and vegetables, you are probably still lacking several key nutrients because it’s difficult to consume the amount of nutrients your body needs to function properly with food alone. To help ward off malnutrition, supplement a healthy diet with high-quality vitamins and minerals. Studies show that synergistic vitamin and mineral blends yield better results than taking individual nutrients on their own.

Every body is different, so start with a high quality multivitamin or vitamin pack and then customize additional nutrients as needed. And remember: it could take several months of consistently taking your vitamins to see visible results. Just know you’re doing your body a favor by giving it exactly what it needs to function at an optimal level.

Sleep
There is a reason it’s called “beauty sleep.” Getting quality rest in a good quantity — 6–8 hours — every night gives your body and mind a chance to recuperate from the stresses of the day. But this is also the time when your cells repair themselves. If this process is disrupted, it will show on your face through puffiness, dark circles, and uneven skin tone. If you have trouble falling asleep, there are a few natural options. A melatonin supplement can work with your body’s natural melatonin production to help you achieve optimal rest for renewed energy. Try incorporating a repetitive habit into your daily bedtime routine to help mentally trigger your brain to shut down for the night. Reading is one such activity. Regular exercise can also improve the quality of your rest. Speaking of exercise. . .

Exercise
Regular cardiovascular and strength training will not only help you feel better; it will help you look better too. Regular exercise can boost your mood and improve your sexual drive, and sweating during exercise helps cleanse your pores of toxins to reveal brighter, healthier-looking skin.

Quit Smoking
Smokers are basically asking their skin to age faster. Nothing damages your skin and overall health more. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Smoking narrows the tiny blood vessels in the outermost layers of skin, which decreases blood flow. This depletes the skin of oxygen and nutrients, such as vitamin A, that are important to skin health.”Smoking also reduces your skin’s elasticity, which will increase those lines on your forehead and around your eyes. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/skin-care/SN00003

Stop Stressing
It may be hard to believe, but the mental strain caused by stress can also tax the body. Excessive stress can lead to all sorts of damage, including high blood pressure and heart disease. But it also causes skin damage, including wrinkles and breakouts. Managing your stress correctly can produce positive results on how you look and feel. Even just a few minutes of silent meditation or deep breathing can help calm and de-stress the body and the mind.

One Last Thought
Your skin will eventually age — that is inevitable. But simple steps like the ones listed above can keep the signs of aging at bay for as long as possible.

While these are pretty basic, I find that I STILL need a reminder of the importance every now and then. For more information about the Wentz’s and their new book The Healthy Home, check out Broad “A’s” review of the book on The Review Broads.