Lately I have realized that I am fitter, stronger, and healthier than I have ever been. I am so happy that I have the energy to work a rigorous job and then get off work and still want to run and ride my bike in the evenings and on the weekends. Life is good! Being a 40 something year old ain’t half bad when you look and feel younger.
I attribute the way I feel to 3 key things. Eating and drinking the right things and sleep (a must have!).
I have experimented with many different ways to eat throughout my 41 years of life. I have gone from low fat/high carb in the early 1990’s to a 100% vegan diet about two years ago. I found what has worked best is falling somewhere smack in the middle. If I eat good quality organic protein (love my hemp protein!), moderate fats in the form of nuts with some unrefined carbs thrown in I feel best. Fueling with the right foods for you (it may take some experimenting) is the first key to feeling great at any age. I am living proof for sure :)
The next key to health is drinking the right things and avoid drinking others. I prefer to drink herbal tea and water throughout the day. Sure I have a cup or two of coffee (with some hemp milk) and a Kombucha thrown in for fun, but I try to limit alcohol to special occasions and never partake in sodas. I have found the more water I drink, the better my skin looks. You do not need a high quality moisturizer if you are nourishing your body with tons water.
Lastly, I know I feel great because I get tons of sleep. I prefer to get 8 or more hours a night. Sleep definitely keeps me young (something about producing HGH?), and keeps my stress levels in check. Plus I find my appetite is decreased when I get enough sleep and I am able to think more clearly. Definitely a must for me:)
I am no expert by any means but I do know what works for me. What works for you?