An expert will reveal how some common foods can contribute to this process without you even noticing. Could it be that your diet is responsible for aging faster?
Dr. Christophe de Jaeger, an expert on longevity, assures that what we eat has a direct effect on the aging of our cells. In an interview for A woman’s diarywarned that some of our dietary choices could accelerate cellular aging, affect health and shorten longevity. Of particular concern is the excessive consumption of certain foods such as sugar, saturated fat and alcohol.
Sugar and glycation
According to De Jaeger, one of the biggest enemies of longevity is sugar. Excessive sugar consumption causes a chronic increase in glucose levels, causing a process known as glycation. This process degrades essential proteins in the body and damages organs such as the brain and eyes, and visibly contributes to skin aging.
De Jaeger emphasizes the difference between fast and slow sugars. Although slow sugars have a less immediate effect, they can also lead to health problems if consumed in excess. Sugar present in everyday products such as bread or sugary drinks should be consumed in moderation to avoid accelerating the aging process.
Saturated fat and cardiovascular disease
Saturated fats, present in foods such as cheese, meat and fried foods, not only raise cholesterol, but are also responsible for an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This risk increases with age because our metabolism slows down and the body cannot process fat as efficiently as it used to.
To solve this problem, the doctor recommends including regular physical activity, which helps maintain an active metabolism and prevents excessive accumulation of cholesterol. Maintaining a diet low in saturated fat is essential for healthy aging.
Alcohol: doubly toxic
Alcohol is another important factor in accelerated aging. According to De Jaeger, alcohol acts as a double toxin. Above all, it is toxic to the brain, liver and nerves. Second, alcohol turns into sugar in the body, which turns it into a metabolic toxin that further affects health.
Regular consumption of alcohol, even in moderate amounts, can have long-term negative effects. Although some claim that red wine can be beneficial, the doctor warns that its consumption should be limited so as not to jeopardize longevity.
Moderation in coffee consumption
Coffee is another controversial food in terms of aging. Although there are studies that suggest beneficial effects, the results are inconclusive. De Jaeger recommends moderation in its consumption, as there is still not enough evidence to confirm its positive or negative effect on cellular aging.
Bottom line: balance is key
The message of Dr. De Jaeger is clear: our dietary choices have a direct impact on how we age. Avoiding excess sugar, saturated fat, and alcohol, along with regular physical exercise, is essential to maintaining health and extending life. Maintaining a balanced diet not only helps us age more slowly, but also helps us avoid diseases related to premature aging.
