… favorite, it can add a whopping 20 years to your body. Here’s why: The nitrates and other compounds in processed meats, such as pepperoni, are known to be pro-inflammatory. Inflammation causes aging from inside out. In addition, the saturated fat in it ages the heart.
Eat This Instead: Try a veggie pizza or just a plain cheese pizza. Other meat toppings may be slightly better, but not much. Plus, adding veggies to your pizza will help you digest all that cheese!
Sugary Liquor
The occasional glass (or two) of wine is no harm to you or your skin, but drinking those pretty, fruity and often sugary mixed drinks, causes free radicals. Alcohol also robs the body of vitamin A, an antioxidant that’s essential for cell renewal and turnover. If you do drink, reach for drinks without added sugars, such as wine, champagne, or a vodka soda with lime. Also, be sure to drink in moderation and wash down all that alcohol with a water chaser at the end of the night or in between alcoholic drinks if you’re drinking more than three drinks.
EXTRA: Store Bought/Processed Baked Goods
We didn’t want to include this because we love sweets so much, but had to share the truth. Yes, that’s right; you may need to step away from the bakery aisle. Baked goods and other sweets are often rich in added sugars and fat, which can lead to weight gain and poor dental health. Sugar also promotes an unhealthy microbiome and it is also pro-inflammatory. All of these characteristics can accelerate the aging process. Eat This Instead: try baking your own treats or substitute the sugary taste with more fruit options in your baked goodness.