Aging, for better or worse, is a natural part of life. There are different perspectives on growing older. Some people appreciate it because life slows down and they have more time to focus on what is really important to them. Others are opposed to aging because of the self-deteriorating side effects. Yet it is inevitable for all of us. The good news is that even though we’re all aging, you don’t need to show it. By eating certain foods, you can prolong your youthful appearance or reverse signs of aging by eliminating wrinkles and fighting cancer or other diseases. Though there’s not a miracle food that will stop aging altogether; you can grow old gracefully by utilizing these foods:
Tomatoes
Did you know that tomatoes are full of antioxidants? Specifically, tomatoes have lycopene, which fights cancer and protects your immune system. They can also counterattack against the effects of sun damage. As they are a versatile fruit, it’s easy to throw one into a salad or add a slice to your sandwich. You can even drink tomato juice or add it to your smoothies.
Berries
Blueberries are famous for being a super fruit. They fight wrinkles, are full of antioxidants, and contain high levels of vitamin C. Blackberries prevent blood clots, which can decrease your chance of heart attacks. Enjoy strawberries in a salad, mix some blueberries into your oatmeal or bake some muffins. There are many ways to incorporate berries into your daily diet.
Pomegranates
Full of riboflavin and phosphorus, pomegranates are an excellent resource for young, beautiful skin. By eating this fruit, you can increase your collagen levels (collagen is what keeps your skin firm and wrinkle-free). Pick some up on your next trip to the grocery store or Whole Foods market.
Kale
Kale is very high in vitamin K, which can help prevent heart disease and even osteoporosis. Also, kale is fiber-rich, which lowers your blood pressure and cholesterol. If you need an easy way to a healthier body, incorporate kale into your diet. One cup of cooked kale provides nearly twelve times the recommended daily intake for vitamin K, so it would be simple enough to toss some into a salad or smoothie. Spinach, turnip greens, broccoli and cabbage offer similar benefits if you don’t care for the taste of kale.
Red wine
Yes, you read that right. One glass of red wine per day can be beneficial because of the antioxidants and because it lowers your cholesterol. If wine isn’t your thing, you can substitute grape juice and have similar results. Red wine contains an element known as resveratrol, which been proven to block diseases from forming in the body. A word of caution with this one, though. Too much alcohol can actually make you look older and age faster. Stick with half a glass to one glass a day for the appropriate amount of anti-aging benefits.
Avocados
The super-food currently sweeping the nation can also have anti-aging effects. Avocados contain vitamins B and E, glutathione, monounsaturated fats, and biotin. What do all of those words mean? The translation is that avocados are excellent for your skin. So effective, in fact, you can apply them directly to the skin in mask-form instead of merely eating them. They will tighten saggy areas, reduce eczema, relieve itchy and red skin, and moisturize and hydrate skin.
Green tea
The Japanese were the first to believe in the anti-aging properties of green tea, but now the concept is accepted worldwide. Drinking multiple cups of green tea per day can lower your risk for stroke, liver disease, depression, Alzheimer’s, cancer, heart disease and diabetes. Also, it is a great natural moisturizer for your skin. Whether you drink it or apply it directly to the skin, only benefits can come from this amazing beverage.
Salmon
If you haven’t sensed a theme yet, antioxidants are one of the key fighters against aging. And if you’re looking for seafood full of antioxidants, give salmon a try. Salmon also has omega-3 fatty acids, which fight against inflammation. This is good if you have something like arthritis that causes swelling in your joints. Further, salmon is a good source of protein, which will help strengthen you and get you into the gym (aiding in looking younger and feeling better).
Watermelon
Summertime is the best time to take advantage of this the benefits of this fruit. Sure, it has antioxidants and vitamins, but the key point is its citrulline. Citrulline does several good things for your body–boosts your immune system, balances your acid levels, helps your metabolism–but it is also a fantastic way to detox your body of harmful chemicals and bacteria. Plus, it tastes so good, you forget that it’s also good for you!
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