Meet Alexandra Paul, actress
What she's known for: Her role as Lieutenant Stephanie Holden in the television series Baywatch, from 1992 to 1997.
Today the competitive endurance athlete looks as stunning as she did during her Baywatch heyday despite her sweet tooth
"My biggest downfall is that I eat too much sugar," Paul said. "When I eat sugary things, I don't leave room for unprocessed fresh foods."
(Are you addicted to sugar? Here are six ways to break the habit with ease.)
Her current age: 47
Her RealAge: 43.8
How she reacted to finding out her RealAge: Most folks who are a few years under their actual age are thrilled, but that's not so for Paul. "I was disappointed that I was only 4 years younger than I really am. But I realized that it was because, even though I am really, really good on exercise and vitamins and not smoking, I fall short in my diet mostly due to eating too much sugar. Being on target in one area doesn't make up for what is missing in another.
(If you just have to indulge in some sweets, do it early in the day instead of later. Here's why.)
What keeps her young: I have always made up for my less-than-stellar diet with being very disciplined in other areas, but what the RealAge Test taught me was that I would be healthier overall if I ate better and was more moderate in other places in which I excel healthwise." For many, it's easier to avoid sugar and more difficult to maintain a good exercise regimen, but that's not the case for Paul.
"I always feel better after I exercise," Paul said. "It has never failed in 35 years of daily exercise. I only take a day off if I'm sick or travel makes it impossible."
Exercise is a huge part of Paul's life. But that's not all that keeps aging at bay.
"The things that keep me young are being in love with my husband, being excited about the things I'm doing, having great friends, and learning new things," Paul said.
What the future holds for her: Paul has no fear of aging. "I don't buy into this, 'Oh, I'm older so I cannot do that.' I don't feel like I get any more tired or there is anything I can't do because of my age. In fact, I feel I am healthier and more capable than ever."
Paul is fine with edging closer to receiving her AARP card, but she admits that she would like to be younger or at least look the part.
"I want to be 37," Paul said. "That is almost 12 years younger than my biological age! Now, after taking the RealAge Test, I know what I need to do: eat more whole foods and protein and less sugar."
(How old does your body think you are? Take the new RealAge Test to find out.)
