The Best Anti-Aging Foods
Best anti aging foods is a very broad phrase and most people will give you 20 different answers as to what constitutes anti aging food for them. I’m sure there are people out there who believe a doughy pizza with 10 different topping is the best anti-aging food on the planet!!!
Food is our lifeline and without it we would eventually die of starvation. What many people don’t realize – THAT is exactly what they are doing each month, year, decade, slowly starving their bodies of nutrients by eating “crap” foods. The best anti aging super/ foods can slow the aging process and appearance of dreaded wrinkles, keep your hair thick and shiny for longer, keep your brain functioning at a higher level as you age – I can go on and on. The health benefits are far reaching and undeniable.
So the question remains, in western cultures why are their millions of over weight, sick people suffering all sorts of diet related illnesses. If all we have to do is nourish our bodies with healing super foods – why is it so hard? If only we could all embrace the meaning behind this well known quote “Eat to Live, not Live to Eat”
We’re all conditioned at a very early age “give me a child until he is 7 and I will give you the man” By the time we’ve reached our teens bad food choices are usually well established. I know myself no matter how full I am after a meal, I always have room for a sneaky fat and sugar laden dessert – it’s always a battle with my head!! As a child we always had pudding usually something very sweet with custard, so I was hotwired at a very early age to love these sweet treats. Now I indulge occasionally if I’m dining out at a restaurant.
As we age and our metabolism slows down, it’s even more important to include a varied diet of the best anti aging foods. Aesthetics aside, yes we all want to be physically slim and attractive, but a body that is functioning and supporting an active lifestyle should be your top priority.
So what are the best anti aging foods.
Following is a list of the 10 foods that are consistently ranked by Nutritionists, Doctors, and other health experts as the best anti aging/super foods, and why
Avocados – Often referred to as the alligator pear, avocadoes are a rich source of antioxidants vitamin E and potassium. This lush fruit is also rich in folates better known as vitamin B which has been linked to the prevention of heart attacks and a reduced risk of osteoporosis. Avocadoes also contain oleic acid which aides in lowering bad cholesterol and protects against blood clots.
Get the guacamole out!!
Green Vegetables – Broccoli and kale are the powerhouse of green veggies but they are all loaded with antioxidants that help fight free radicals, these are the nasties that cause you to age faster. Vegetables are a great immune booster and studies have shown that a diet full of green vegetable especially the cruciferous type can help in the prevention of cardiovascular disease and lower blood pressure.
Nuts – If you want to stave off hunger eat a small handful of nuts. They are a fantastic source of protein, vitamin E, which helps prevent cell damage, and calcium to maintain strong bones. There are many varieties of nuts and they all contain omega 3 fatty acids which are great for maintaining a healthy heart
Berries – All berries are rich in antioxidants such as flavonols and anthocyanins which promote cell health and brain function. The stand out berries are the darker ones such as blueberries, and blackberries, it’s been proven they have the highest concentration of antioxidants. Studies have shown that blueberries may restrict the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the body. Cranberries are also well known for aiding in urinary tract problem.
Dark Chocolate – Chocolate comes from the cocoa bean which has a high concentration of antioxidant flavanols and has been shown to help reduce inflammation of the skin caused by exposure to UV light . Enjoy chocolate as part of a healthy diet and reap the benefits of improved circulation and plumper younger looking skin. It must be at least 70% dark chocolate 85% is better but can start to taste slightly bitter if you have a sweet tooth. It’s the refining process that strips away those all-important antioxidant flavanols so go to the dark side for your chockie treat.
Fish – Fish is a great source of protein, and high in omega 3 fatty acids that help protect against heart disease and inflammation in the body. Cold water fish such as salmon, tuna and herring contain more of the omega 3 fatty acids an d if eaten several times a week can also lower risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. Omega 3 fish oil is a popular dietary supplement, however studies have shown people who eat a lot of fish live longer healthier lives.
Beans – Beans are a excellent source of low fat protein, antioxidants, minerals and fibre. They are a great alternative to meat and are rich in vitamins and minerals including vitamin B iron and potassium. Some beans such as kidney and soy also contain protease inhibitors which help protect against cancer. A few tips if you suffer with gas from beans. If using canned beans thoroughly rinse the beans first. Introduce beans gradually into your diet, mung and adzuki beans are easier to digest. Cook beans with lots of vegetables and spices such as ginger, and turmeric.
Green Tea – Green tea contains the most EGCG one of the most power antioxidants. Numerous studies link drinking green tea to lower risks of heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s. Green tea also contains polyphenols which help fight free radicals in our bodies and promotes anti aging benefits. Weight loss is a well known side effect of drinking green tea, it helps burn fat and boosts metabolism.
Garlic – Garlic is a pungent member of the allium family and is well known for its anti viral and anti bacterial properties. Research has shown garlic inhibits the spread of cancer cells and has also been linked to lower risks of stomach, intestinal, pancreatic and breast cancers. There several milder types of garlic if you find it to pungent.
Red Wine – Resveratrol is the anti aging antioxidant found in red wine. Many studies have shown that resveratrol helps reduce the risk of cancer, lower bad cholesterol, and decrease inflammation. The alcohol content of red wine helps to keep blood clots rom forming. Moderation is the key word here. No more than one glass at a time, and try to have a several consecutive alcohol free days per week.
This is by no means a definitive list and other often included anti aging/super foods are:-
Whole grains, Olive oil, Yoghurt, Tomatoes, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Mushrooms.
5 quick improvements you can make to your diet NOW
- Add more beans to soups and stews – cut down on the meat content.
- Combine berries and Greek yoghurt, sprinkled with ground nuts. A great dessert or breakfast.
- Try mashed avocado with a squeeze of lemon juice on a slice of wholegrain toast – yum
- Make a roasted garlic hummus and serve with veggie crudités
- Dip giant strawberries in melted dark chocolate – decadent
Do an inventory of your current diet, does it include a high proportion of these best anti aging foods?
Lastly always remember YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT.