What Happens as We Age?
Ageing is partly in our genes, but it’s also shaped by how we live.
A key player? Telomeres—protective caps on your chromosomes. When they shorten too fast, ageing speeds up.
The good news?
You can slow the ageing process down with smart choices.
What Slows Ageing Down?
Eating well and staying active.
Getting enough sleep and managing stress.
Avoiding toxins like junk food, smoking, and excess alcohol.
What Speeds Ageing Up?
Processed foods, lack of water, and too little exercise.
Chronic stress or a negative outlook.
Your Takeaway: Small, positive changes today can keep you thriving tomorrow.
Nutrition: Fuel for a New You
Your body builds fresh cells every day—feed it right, and those cells stay strong!
Eat This:
Veggies (spinach, kale, beetroot), fruits (blueberries, oranges), nuts, and seeds.
Healthy oils (olive, flaxseed) and herbal teas (green tea, matcha).
Small amounts of organic meat or fish, if you like.
Skip This:
Sugar, sweeteners, and table salt.
Microwaved meals and soft drinks.
Hydrate: Filtered or distilled water is your best friend.
Lifestyle Boosters
Move Daily: Walk, stretch, or dance—keep it fun!
Sleep Well: Aim for 7-8 hours to recharge.
Detox: Cut smoking, limit alcohol, and reduce stress.
Mindset Matters
Find purpose—Get motivated, connect with a group like Kent Sheds, and take part in team projects.
Stay positive and care for your community.
Your Takeaway: Build habits that nourish your body and soul.
Color Your Plate, Boost Your Health
Plants are packed with phytonutrients—natural compounds that fight disease and ageing. Here’s your rainbow guide:
Blue/Purple (Flavonoids): Blueberries, blackberries—great for your heart and eyes.
Red (Lycopene): Tomatoes, watermelon—reduces inflammation.
Green (Chlorophyll): Spinach, kale—detoxes and energizes.
Yellow/Orange (Carotenoids): Carrots, sweet potatoes—supports immunity and joints.
White/Brown (Sulphur): Garlic, onions—good for your heart and liver.
Telomere Protectors
Omega-3s: Flaxseeds, chia, or fish like salmon.
Vitamins: C (citrus), D (sunshine or supplements), B9/B12 (leafy greens, eggs), E (nuts).
Antioxidants: Berries, turmeric, green tea.
Nitric Oxide Boosters: Leafy greens, beets—keeps blood flowing.
Keep Moving
Exercise protects telomeres and boosts energy.
Try: A daily 30-minute walk, visit the sheds workshops, or gardening—whatever you love!
Beat Stress
Stress shortens telomeres, so unwind with:
Deep breathing or meditation (5 minutes a day).
A warm herbal tea moment with your shed friends .
Stay connected—chat with friends or help a shedder.
Bonus Tip: Intermittent Fasting
Skip breakfast once or twice a week (e.g., eat from noon to 8 PM). It may help repair telomeres and boost metabolism.
Your Takeaway: Balance activity and calm for a longer, happier life.