We all worry about sagging skin and body changes; but these are superficial signs of aging. Hidden within us are some serious sign of aging that can affect our long term health and wellbeing. But just because you cannot see them doesn’t mean you are powerless to delay them.

• Fertility

Female fertility peak in the early twenties and at the age of thirty five, female fertility is half of what it was at twenty five. And beyond thirty five, it drops dramatically. Optimizing fertility starts with a healthy lifestyle; being over or under weight can seriously impair a woman’s ability to conceive naturally, because a certain amount of body fat is needed to regulate hormones that are needed to control ovulation and menstruation, so prioritizing eating well and exercise goes a long way to a preserving one of women’s most precious assets.

Consuming foods rich in folic acids (green leaves), iron (red meat), calcium (dairy), zinc (seafood and asparagus), fiber (brown rice) and unsaturated fats (olive oil). If you smoke, quit, as it can effect egg formation, ovulation and fertilization; and nix excessive alcohol intake. And find ways to manage stress, as it impacts the reproductive system.

• Heart

Without a strong heart, you are fighting a losing battle; as a strong heart goes a very long way to helping you feel young. The heart is a muscle, so as with other muscles, it will lose strength over time; blood vessels become less supple and it begins operating less efficiently. The risk of heart disease increases after menopause as the levels of heart protective oestrogen lessens. For those with a family history of heart disease or stroke be on guard. Keep your heart young by limiting salt intake and saturated fats, don’t smoke or drink excessively and exercise- your heart will thank you!

• Digestions and Kidneys

A happy digestive system is the key to everything from healthy skin to great energy levels. The digestive system slows over time but it can be kept young. Plenty of water and soluble fiber contributes to a health digestive tract. Research shows that regular exercise helps digestion and cuts the risk of bowl polyps, which can increase cancer risk by up to 35%.

The urinary system slows as we age, as the kidneys reduce in size and weight. With aging comes incontinence issues; but by keeping weight in check and doing pelvic floor exercises (kegels) you reduce your chance of this embarrassing affliction.

• Liver

The liver is the bodies chemical processing unit, electricity plant and security guard all rolled into one; it performs more than 500 functions within our bodies. The liver is responsible for breaking down food to make energy, combating infection and neutralizing toxins. It is our body’s largest internal organ and the most resilient, providing it is treated with respect. Taking care of the liver is achieved my lowering intake of alcohol and saturated fats. Excessive drinking can lead to cirrhosis, while obesity and bad diet are linked to non alcoholic fatty liver disease. Don’t abuse your liver; when the liver isn’t working optimally, nothing is.

Staying young goes further than just changing your skincare routine; slow the internal signs of aging with conscious healthy decision to look and feel young for years to come.

Bianca Osbourne is a natural foods chef and freelance writer. She is passionate about a holistic approach to health and wellness. She writes and educates on using food as the best anti aging skincare treatment.