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As you put on years, bodily processes like the production of collagen slow down and cause widespread changes that make you look — and feel — old. These changes are part of the natural aging process. They’re going to happen to anyone at some point.

But some people are less fortunate: They seem to be aging faster than they should be. Some people spot the signs of premature aging in their twenties, some in their teens. Regardless of when it happens, it’s clear that few of us are ready to go over the hill.

If you’re also worried about premature aging, here are seven signs to look out for.

1. Your skin is dull and dry

Your skin usually bears the first indicators that you’re aging prematurely. But beyond fine lines and wrinkles, dull, dry skin is also a telltale sign. With time, your skin slows down its production of collagen, the protein that gives your skin its shape and plumpness. Less collagen causes thin skin, which makes you more prone to dehydration.

2. You feel tired all the time

A classic sign of sleep deprivation, chronic exhaustion is linked to premature skin aging. Studies show that lack of sleep accelerates skin aging and decreases your skin’s ability to recover from sun exposure. Exhaustion can also mean that your body is not making enough mitochondria, the energy-producing powerhouses of the cell. The constant renewal of mitochondria is important not just to keep you energized but young-looking as well.

3. You have bloodshot eyes

Red, inflamed eyes indicate many bad things: lack of sleep, spending too much time in front of the screen. Worse, they can mean you’re suffering from inflammation – a perennial driver of chronic disease and accelerated skin aging.

4. You live a sedentary lifestyle

Sitting constantly does no favor to your overall health. It drives up your blood pressure and puts you at a greater risk for obesity, depression and some forms of cancer. It also tightens your hips and speeds up skin aging by increasing oxidative stress.

5. You carry excess fat around the waist

While gaining weight happens no matter your age, carrying excess fat around your waist is particularly bad news for older people. As metabolism slows down, excess flab accumulates more easily in your abdomen. This so-called “middle-aged spread” spells trouble not only because it’s a sign of aging – it also raises your risk of heart disease, Type 2 diabetes and even certain cancers, all of which can lead to premature death. Women are particularly at risk of greater belly fat after menopause.

6. Your digestion is always off

Poor gut health is often associated with chronic inflammation. Keep an eye on frequent constipation, diarrhea and other digestive issues. You might be eating an unhealthy diet rich in processed foods and low in fiber.

7. You’re forgetful

Forgetfulness is part and parcel of pure aging. But when forgetting at a young age becomes a pattern, then your lifestyle choices are likely driving the aging process. Lack of sleep and stress on top of an unhealthy diet might be to blame.

How to reverse premature aging

Genetics aside, premature aging is most commonly caused by poor lifestyle choices. Eating a poor diet, sitting down all day, among other things, can make you age faster. Listed below are some tips to slow down aging:

1. Load it up on fruits and veggies. Leafy greens, berries and other fresh anti-aging foods are all rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative damage. Berries are also packed with sorbitol, a humectant that helps lock in moisture for young-looking skin.
2. Be physically active in your spare time. You can walk around your block, take the stairs at work or do some minor lunges during breaks. An hour of simple exercise three times a week helps reduce belly fat and other signs of premature aging.
3. Get a good night’s sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep for radiant, glowing skin. If you find it hard falling asleep, put your phone away. Checking it before bed stimulates your brain and keeps you from dozing off.
4. Eat a balanced diet. Be sure to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods to look and feel young. Deficiencies in nutrients like vitamin D and B12 are not just bad for your skin but for your overall health too.
5. Add more fiber-rich foods. The best way to fight inflammation in the gut is to eat fiber-rich foods like whole grains and berries. Foods like chicory root and yogurt are also packed with prebiotics and probiotics that promote gut health.
6. Consider taking supplements. Phytoceramides are great for dry, flaky skin. Dubbed “a facelift in a bottle,” these supplements are derived from naturally-occurring fats called “ceramides,” which keeps your skin hydrated and fresh-looking.

Premature aging makes you look and feel older than your age. Wrinkling, dry skin, feeling tired all the time and many other things may be a sign that you’re aging faster than your peers. Turn back the clock by following the anti-aging tips listed here.

Sources:

MindBodyGreen.com

Healthline.com

ScienceDaily.com