From 47 to 20: How to defy aging, the Davinia Taylor way, with 3 simple lifestyle changes

In the pursuit of ageless skin and a body that defies time, Davinia Taylor traded parties for protein, ditched diets and detox teas for strength, fats, and science. Once known for her soap star lifestyle, the former Hollyoaks actress reinvented herself from battling alcoholism to a wellness advocate who claimed to have reduced her biological age to 20.

Three pillars guide her transformation, well explained in her book Futureproof: reducing inflammation, building muscle, and eating smarter, not less.

1. Reduce inflammation

Taylor identifies chronic inflammation as a primary factor in aging and various health issues. She emphasizes eliminating ultra-processed foods (UPFs), particularly those containing vegetable oils like sunflower, rapeseed, and soybean, which are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids. These ingredients are linked to fatigue, anxiety, and serious diseases such as cancer.

To combat inflammation, Taylor advocates intermittent fasting to promote autophagy, a process where the body repairs itself by eliminating damaged cells. She also recommends incorporating healthy fats from olive oil, avocado, and butter.

2. Build strength

Acknowledging that muscle mass naturally declines with age, Taylor stresses the importance of strength training to maintain physical function and prevent frailty. She notes that muscle mass peaks around age 30 and decreases by approximately 1% annually after 40, accelerating after 70. Regular resistance exercises can counteract this decline, improve bone density, and enhance balance.

Taylor also highlights the mental health benefits of strength training, as it boosts dopamine levels, enhancing motivation and overall well-being.

3. Optimize nutrition

Taylor critiques traditional low-fat, high-carb diets, stating they often fatigue individuals. She emphasizes the importance of protein for hormone production, immune function, and muscle development. In particular, she highlights the role of collagen and glycine-rich foods, such as chicken with skin and fatty cuts of meat, in promoting skin health and satiety.

Taylor's dietary recommendations include:

• Consuming whole, natural foods.
  
  
• Including healthy fats in the diet.
  
  
• Avoiding ultra-processed foods and vegetable oils.
  
  
• Incorporating collagen-rich foods like bone broth.
  
  

Taylor believes that addressing inflammation, participating in strength training, and prioritizing proper nutrition can significantly enhance one's health and potentially reduce one's biological age.

In addition to these core principles, Taylor also advocates other wellness practices in her routine, such as cold showers, breath work, and the use of nootropics to enhance cognitive function. She also emphasizes the importance of sunlight exposure in the morning to regulate circadian rhythms and improve sleep quality.

Taylor's transformation has inspired many, particularly women navigating menopause, to adopt her holistic approach to health and aging. Her supplement brand, Willpowders, and social media presence continue to influence a growing community seeking vitality and longevity.