TAIPEI (TVBS News) — As individuals age, their health inevitably changes. Moderate exercise effectively combats physical decline and reduces cardiovascular disease risks, according to health experts.
The World Health Organization advises adults to engage in 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity weekly or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous activity.
Yet, younger generations appear to be aging more rapidly than anticipated. Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that those born after 1965 are 17% more likely to experience accelerated aging compared to those born from 1950 to 1954.
Dr. Liu Peng-chih of Shin Kong Wu Ho Su Memorial Hospital links this trend to increased social pressures and early onset of chronic illnesses. "These circumstances will cause our cells to accelerate aging in response to physical or psychological stress," he said.
Diet also plays a critical role in how quickly we age. High intakes of sugars, saturated fats, and processed foods can hasten aging by promoting chronic inflammation. Conversely, consuming more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can combat this effect.
Sun Jung, a nutritionist at Taiwan Adventist Hospital, emphasizes the importance of a natural diet. "Vegetables are rich in dietary fiber, phytochemicals, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which can help with anti-oxidation and anti-inflammatory effects," Sun added.