Beauty Bites: Look great and age with grace

You can age gracefully.

Did your grandmother age gracefully? She might have thought growing older with poise meant accepting age-related changes in her skin and overall health, or that costly cosmetic surgery was the only way to look her best as she grew older. Today, better health knowledge and leading-edge products have revolutionised the concept of what it means to age gracefully.

Growing older is inevitable, but looking and feeling old don't have to be. Here are some actions women of any age can take to ensure they stay healthy and looking good throughout their lives.

GET AND STAY ACTIVE

Health authorities recommend healthy adults get at least two hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (such as brisk walking) every week, and engage in muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. The benefits of exercise are many, including helping with weight control, lowering the risk of heart disease, improving cardio-vascular health and even supporting brain health. It's never too late to become active, so talk to your doctor about an exercise routine that works for you.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR SKIN

It's the body's largest organ and the one that protects all the others. Skin also directly affects how we look and feel about our appearance. Fortunately, the latest skincare technology makes it possible to care for your skin while visibly reducing the signs of aging.

PROTECT AGAINST SUN DAMAGE

Sun exposure is the leading cause of premature aging of the skin and can even lead to skin cancer. Always wear sunscreen to protect all exposed skin - even hands and feet. Choose a broad spectrum product with an SPF30 or more. Many sunscreens can do double duty by moisturising and offering a sheer hint of colour.

MAKE GOOD NUTRITION A LIFESTYLE

Proper nutrition throughout life impacts overall health, including weight and the health of your muscles, digestive system, bones and brain. It also affects the appearance, clarity and elasticity of skin. Be sure to follow a balanced diet.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR BONES

Osteoporosis - the gradual loss of bone mass over time - is a concern for women as they age. Bone health is essential for overall health, and directly affects a woman's ability to maintain mobility and posture later in life. You can support your bone health in many ways, including ensuring you get plenty of calcium and vitamin D - either in your diet through lean dairy products or through supplements - engaging in bone-building exercises, choosing foods that are good for bone health, avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption to just two or three drinks a day.