Decrease calories, increase good stuff!

Cutting calories to lose weight has always helped the health conscious drop pounds, but a new study reveals another surprising benefit of watching what you eat.

Scientists from the University of Florida’s Institute on Aging report that a minimal reduction in daily calorie intake can lessen the effects of aging. In fact, combining fewer calories with increased physical activity can halt age-related cell and organ damage altogether.

Researchers discovered that feeding rats just 8 percent fewer calories a day and slightly increasing their activity levels extended their lifespan and reduced the negative effects of aging.

Reducing your calorie intake by eight percent is an attainable goal. For most women, that means eliminating just a few hundred calories from your diet every day. After making some simple changes, chances are you won’t even miss those extra calories.

One easy way to cut calories is by making healthier snack choices. Replace candy with fresh fruit, and snack on pretzels instead of potato chips. You can still have a slice of pizza every now and then, but reduce the calories by ordering thin crust. And save a few calories by enjoying that hamburger or sandwich without cheese.

Also, try to eliminate liquid calories. Instead of a soft drink, drink water. Replace whole milk with fat-free milk. And try light beer, or a wine spritzer instead of a fruit-based alcoholic beverage.

In addition to making these simple changes to your diet, slightly increase your activity level. Taking a short walk after dinner or taking the stairs instead of the elevator can help your body age gracefully.

By making these changes to your lifestyle, you can control the negative effects of aging and face a healthier, more active retirement. Although you might not notice changes now, your body will thank you as you age.