Future-Proof Yourself By Giving Your Body Just What It Needs Right Now

No matter how old you are, future-proof yourself by giving your body just what it needs right now

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Like a fine wine, our bodies change as we age – what they needed in our 20s might not be the same as they need now. But one in 10 Brits admit they don’t start to take their health seriously until they’re 40*, which could have a big impact on the future. So how can we make sure we’re functioning at our best in mid life and beyond? Here’s everything you need to be doing...

Collagen explained

Collagen (a protein in our body) decreases as we age. This can affect our skin’s structure and plumpness, weaken bones and reduce our joints’ protective tissue. TRY: Great Lakes Collagen Powder, £26.99, amazon.co.uk.

YOUR BODY

CARE FOR YOUR TEETH ‘Use interdental brushes or floss and brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste,’ says Dr Nigel Carter, chief executive of the Oral Health Foundation. Brush gently to avoid gum recession.

QUIT SMOKING It’s never too late. Did you know that people who stop by the age of 44 live almost as long as those who never smoked?**

TAKE VITAMIN D Low levels can increase depression. ‘Getting enough vitamin D during winter also boosts our immune system,’ says James Davis (themidlifementors.com). Try Super Strength Vitamin D3 (£11.95, healthspan.co.uk).

YOUR SKIN

KNOW YOUR PRODUCTS Choose skincare wisely. ‘Peptides help with collagen support, hyaluronic acid retains hydration, while a weekly hydrolysed collagen mask works on fine lines and wrinkles,’ recommends facialist Lisa Harris.