5 myths about the ‘fountain of youth’
Separate fact from fiction when it comes to longevity and healthy aging.
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Nearly every day, it seems like there’s a headline about ways to stay young and turn back the clock on aging. One day, it’s the newest miracle skin cream; the next, the latest diet or fitness craze. But it’s important to take “anti-aging” claims with a grain of salt. "There's just not much evidence that any of that stuff will extend your lifespan or make you healthier," says Karen Galichon, MD, of Primary Health Group in Henrico, Virginia.
The fact is, aging is a natural and healthy part of life. When we come to terms with the fact that aging is inevitable—even beautiful—we can learn to enjoy and embrace the value of every phrase of our lives rather than continually focusing on ways to defy time and stay young.
Here are five common misconceptions about aging—plus pointers on what may actually increase longevity and contribute to healthy living at every age.
Sources: American Academy of Dermatology Association. How to Select Anti-Aging Skin Care Products. Page accessed on November 29 + 11
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. How to Select Anti-Aging Skin Care Products. Page accessed on November 29, 2022.
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- Harvard Health Publishing. Working later in life can pay off in more than just income. June 1, 2018.
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- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Healthy Eating For a Healthy Weight. Page last updated June 30, 2022.
- Frisch M, Simonsen J. Marriage, cohabitation and mortality in Denmark: national cohort study of 6.5 million persons followed for up to three decades (1982-2011). Int J Epidemiol. 2013;42(2):559-578.
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