Dr Amir is known for his appearances on ITV shows including This Morning and Lorraine
ITV’s Doctor Amir Khan has has shared “five things you might be doing that could make you look and feel older.” The TV personality and full-time GP, known for his appearances on shows like This Morning and Lorraine, said that people may know some of these facts, but don’t understand why it’s bad.
In his advice, he mentioned that some of these habits are simple to avoid. By making changes now, you could see an increase in your energy, less fine lines and wrinkles, and hopefully you will feel younger and look it too.
A common habit the doctor warned people about is what you eat and drink throughout the day, urging people to try two fruits and see how they feel. And he thinks you will see a massive difference.
Number One
The doctor admitted: “So many of us don’t drink enough water. I include myself in that.
“It can lead to dry, flaky skin and more pronounced wrinkles. Dehydration can also affect joint health, digestion and energy levels, which we all need to feel young – so drink lots of water and eat fruits, such as melon and oranges, which can help hydrate you.”
Number Two
The doctor warns that whilst we all know too much sugar is bad, he noted that we may not know that “too much refined sugar or added sugar can cause something called glycation.
“This can damage collagen and leading to wrinkles. But it can also cause insulin resistance which has been linked to cognitive decline as we age.
“So instead try to eat more whole foods. And for that sweet hit, aim for food such as dates – you know I love them – which are sweet and have high fibre too.”
Number Three
If you have too much screen time and blue light exposure, that can make you look older. Dr Khan explained: “Blue light from our screens can contribute to collagen breakdown which can cause our skin to develop fine lines and make us look older.”
It can also interfere with melatonin production, which affects our sleep. Therefore, if possible, try to avoid looking at a screen before bedtime and right after waking up.
Number Four
In his next warning, he noted: “Air pollution can cause something called oxidative stress in our bodies, which can speed up aging. And smoking and vaping can reduce oxygen and nutrients to our skin, making us look older and our skin appear dull as well as damaging collagen and elastin in her skin.
“Stop smoking there and eat lots of antioxidant rich foods like berries and nuts, and don’t forget other things like socialising with other people, getting out in nature, managing alcohol levels, doing some strength and aerobic training, prioritising sleep, and rest and just feel fabulous – or even more fabulous – for longer.”
Number Five
In his last suggestion, he reminds people: “If you sit for long periods of time, this can lead to poor circulation, which can make our skin look dull, but also contribute to loss of muscle. Exercise also boosts mitochondria in cells which can reduce inflammation and help us look younger.”
The doctor added that if you hunch, it can make you skin saggy. He suggests every 30 minutes going on a quick walk or have a good stretch, he concluded.
