6 worst habits that could be harming your looks: Harvard liver specialist urges to stop these lifestyle mistakes
skincare
or genetics—it's also about the
daily habits
that shape your overall health. Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a liver specialist trained at Harvard and Stanford, recently shared science-backed advice on how certain lifestyle choices can speed up the aging process. From what you eat to how you manage stress, these factors can directly impact how old you look and feel, having broader implications for long-term health.
In a YouTube video, Dr. Sethi outlined six habits that could be making you age faster—and what you can do to reverse the damage.
Smoking: The Fast Track to Premature Aging
According to Dr. Sethi, smoking tops the list as the most damaging habit when it comes to accelerating the aging process. It harms the skin's elasticity and reduces blood flow, leading to early wrinkles and a dull complexion. More importantly, it introduces harmful toxins that impact overall organ health, including that of the liver.
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Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Drinking too much alcohol is another major factor that contributes to visible signs of aging. Alcohol dehydrates the skin, causes inflammation, and can damage liver function over time. While occasional consumption might not be harmful, consistent overindulgence can lead to long-term effects on both appearance and internal health.
Poor Sun Protection
While sunlight is essential for vitamin D synthesis and general well-being, Dr. Sethi emphasized that unprotected exposure during peak hours—especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.—can speed up skin aging. Failing to use sunscreen or wear protective clothing like hats can result in sunspots, fine lines, and an overall older look. He advised mindful sun exposure and proper protection as crucial for maintaining youthful skin.
Chronic Dehydration
Maintaining proper hydration is especially important during warmer months, Dr. Sethi noted. Insufficient water intake leads to dry, sagging skin and an overall tired appearance. Staying hydrated supports skin elasticity and brightness, helping people look and feel younger.
High Intake of Processed Foods and Sugar
A diet filled with sugary and processed foods not only impacts metabolism but also contributes to skin problems and inflammation. Dr. Sethi pointed out that excess sugar can damage collagen, a protein responsible for skin firmness, which leads to premature aging signs like sagging and wrinkles.
Unmanaged Stress
Dr. Sethi also highlighted chronic stress as a silent contributor to aging. Long-term stress can disrupt hormonal balance, affect sleep, and leave visible marks on the face. He shared that he personally practices "Bhramari Pranayama"—a type of yogic breathing known as the humming bee breath—to manage stress and improve overall wellness. Such breathing techniques can help calm the mind and improve emotional well-being.
Dr. Sethi's message is clear: Small but consistent
lifestyle changes
can go a long way in preserving both youthfulness and internal health. From quitting smoking to practicing stress-reducing techniques, these evidence-based suggestions aim to help people age gracefully—inside and out.
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