Premature aging

Question
Hi Dr

I am male, 50.

Until a couple years ago, I looked young for my age-people thought I was 40 or less.

I dont smoke or drink and eat healthy.

In the last few months however my aging seems to have sped up. People I havent seen for a while dont recognise me. I am greying quickly and losing hair, and developing a large belly although actually eating less and being more active.

The only change in my life is changing jobs. I went from a 'soft' job to more lucrative and rewarding although stressfull (at least for the first year) job. I actually developed hypertension.Also I developed very rapid macular degeneration (my eye doctor mentioned this) and now wear glasses which make me look older. Two years ago people my age marveled that I could read fine print.

My stress level has since lowered and I feel better, but I wish I could look better.

Do you think that it was the new job that did this, or was it genetic?

Can you reccomend anything, such as a food or  vitamin or supplement? I already have a healthy lifestyle but would consider any new reccomendations.

Thanks!


Answer
Hello Van,

Thanks for your question.  Aging is due to many factors.  Genetics plays a role, but doesn't determine everything.  If your job is the main thing that changed recently, that's the most likely culprit in tipping the scales towards accelerated aging.  Stress affects the body in many ways, and the effects can linger, making it difficult to get back to normal, but with keeping healthy lifestyle habits it is more possible.  This would include sleep, rest, stress management, regular exercise, healthy relationships and activities, and a diet high in whole organic foods & low in refined foods, sugars, caffeine, and alcohol.  There's a multitude of supplements that may be helpful in restoring health, such as B vitamins, vitamin C, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants, all of which your body uses more of when you are under excess stress.  Without knowing more about your overall health, I couldn't say which would be best; but with some research you can make a reasonable guess.  Or, even better would be to consult with and ND or holistic MD near you, for specific guidance.  It's a good time to start thinking about functional health instead of just disease, and there's still much you can do in this area that will prevent future problems and continue to give you an excellent quality of life.  

In health,

Dr Conner