We often wonder how we would look like when we would be in our 70’s; how our skin would be, whether our organs would be functioning like they do now and so on. Carolyn Hartz, who resides in Perth, Australia, is 70-years old would give you an idea how you would look when you are 70 years old, but mind you, you may look like this only if you haven’t had sugar since nearly 30 years. One look at her and you would think this is a joke, the woman doesn’t seem a day older than 30 years.
Carolyn Hartz went off sugar nearly 3 decades back, to be precise 28 years back in order to stay healthy and wrinkle free. She was addicted to sweets and instead of sugar she switched to organic sweeteners. She says, “It was difficult at first as I was a sugar addict, but I believe it is one of the most important reasons I have been able to keep myself healthy and keep my body in shape.’
On being asked how she manages to keep off sugar, she says “I make sure I eat protein with every meal, especially breakfast. It stops the cravings. We know our metabolism slows down as we get older. It just means we have to take control and make healthier choices and work a little harder.” According to her, it is crucial not to deprive yourself of food you want to have, you just have to be careful of the portion size. She adds, “I believe it is very important to be aware of the type of food you eat and the quantity of food you eat. Being mindful while you are eating is a huge factor.”
Her substitute for sugar is the sweetener called Xylitol, which is an all natural sugar substitute. It can be found in some vegetables and berries. Carolyn is the founder of a sweetener company. However, one look at her and one would say she has got some professional work done for her looks.
She is a mother of three and admits that it is a common belief that maintaining a proper and healthy body shape post giving birth is difficult, “A lot of women post 50 think that it’s not possible to maintain a reasonable shape and weight when they reach 50 or beyond. I even speak to women who are in their 40s and who have had children and think they cannot regain their post-baby body.”
Her advice to every woman who tries to look her best is, “I am an optimist, even when I have challenges thrown at me I have learnt to stay positive. I have trained myself to remember the glass is always half full. Be happy for everyone and never worry about your age. Don’t listen to the naysayers, be your own person. Attitude is your most important asset. Life is not perfect, accept this and grab it with both hands.”