How to Stay Young Forever

Six things you can do right now, and every day, to stay young as long as possible.

If you start now, you won't ever have to look back and regret that you didn't do these simple, science-backed things.

1. Get enough sleep. This is the number one thing that trumps everything else when it comes to healthy aging. You may be called a 'go-getter' or 'Superwoman' for getting by on little shuteye, but you are also raising your risk of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, and more.

2. Consider sunscreen as important as brushing your teeth. The sun's UVA rays lead to fine lines, wrinkles, brown spots and dilated pores, which are responsible for about 80% of visible aging on your face. Apply every two hours if you're outside, look for a brand that guards against UVA and UVB rays and don't forget the top of your hands.

3. Eat enough. Make sure to give your body the nutrients it needs to thrive.

4. But don't eat too much. Maintaining a healthy body weight has been proven to help you live longer while obesity can shorten your lifespan by 6 - 7 years!

5. Brighten your skin with science-backed products. Neutralize free radicals with lotions that contain antioxidants to make your skin look lighter and brighter over time.

6. Think and act young. The main factor that separates people who look young versus old is what they believe constitutes middle age. Appearing and acting fresh and vibrant can stave off middle age for 15 years longer than acting tired and depressed and feeling old before you really are. To go along with the acting youthful mentality, you should also forgive easily, use enjoyable rituals to combat stress, and continue to learn new skills in order to stay young.

(Dr. Mario E. Martinez, Dr. Florence Comite)