Issue Date: December 7, 2008

Boomers are looking good

Better eating, exercising and lifestyles all have helped.

By Charla Krupp

We've been fortunate -- I have cousins who are 60 but look 40.

There's a lot to be said about growing old and looking good as a Baby Boomer. Just look at pictures of your grandma. She simply didn't have access to resources that Boomers have enjoyed, nor did she grow up with as much awareness about healthy living. That's why images of Grandma probably will be those of a 60-year-old woman who looked 80, with graying hair in a tight bun, a spotty and wrinkled complexion and a frame betrayed by years of gravity. Our generation doesn't have to grow old that way. I have cousins who are 60 but look 40.

We've been lucky for many reasons. We know that, in addition to serious health effects, smoking turns your teeth yellow and your breath foul and creates lines in your face.

Then, there's exercise. Our grandparents got their share -- they knew that a brisk, long walk every day could provide a wealth of health benefits. But our generation has learned to fine-tune our workouts to get specific results. For example, we know that weight training will help us tone up flabby arms and that stretching might help us avoid the shrinking little-old-lady syndrome.

We know that antioxidant-packed broccoli and blueberries are superfoods to be consumed daily. We know that our skin and hair are directly affected by what we eat. A diet of vegetables and fruits rich in vitamins Cand E helps prevent skin damage and gives us anti-aging protection.

And strong, shiny hair is best achieved by consuming foods packed with vitamins Band C. Our awareness wasn't always so great. As teens at the pool, we opened up our double albums, covered them with tinfoil and placed them in perfect sun-reflection position as we coated our bodies with baby oil. Sure, it made us look alluringly bronze, but now we have unsightly brown spots to remind us of our youthful indiscretions.

Overall, however, I'd say we've been very fortunate. Can you think of another generation that has had something as simple yet vital as a bottle of water at hand at all times? Water flushes out toxins, makes it easier to lose weight and hydrates the skin; it's like getting beauty in a bottle. Who could ask for a more simple (and inexpensive) way to feel great, inside and out?

CHARLAKRUPP is the author of "How Not to Look Old" (SPRINGBOARDPRESS, $25.99).