Do Certain Foods Help You Age Slower?

Nutrition

Ah, the elusive eternal youth! That magic potion has been sought after for centuries. If only there was that little bottle of genie juice that could keep us young, vibrant, and fresh for longer. Unfortunately, there isn’t. But there are ways to keep your skin, body, and mental state younger. However, it’s more of a lifestyle change than simply drinking from a fountain! So, what exactly can you do to keep your skin fresh and glowing? Is there a way to keep your body fit and healthy? Luckily, there is! And it’s all to do with what you eat. So, keep scrolling to discover the elixir of life (kind of)!

Eating habits are critical to your health

When was the last time you took stock of what you are eating? Have you recently checked back and worked out your calorie count? Or perhaps monitored your fat, carbohydrate, and protein intake? Remember, you are what you eat after all! If you want to start changing your metabolism and the way your body reacts to food, start with what you put into it and when. Below are three key habits that will boost your overall health and aid body longevity.

1. Cut out processed foods

Despite being high in calories, processed foods don’t keep you full for long and contain almost no nutrients. Hence why you may hear them referred to as empty calories. They usually also contain an undisclosed amount of sodium (salt), sugar, and fat. This makes them more addictive than fresh foods. So, once you start eating processed food regularly, you will actually start craving them. Unfortunately, processed foods are much cheaper and easier to come by than fresh foods. But once you cut them out, it will be much easier to maintain this habit.

2. Keep hydrated

It is important to keep hydrated throughout the day, especially if you’re working or exercising. But drinking lots of water also keeps your skin hydrated. This, in turn, keeps you looking younger. Our skin helps regulate body temperature, prevents dehydration, and even helps protect us from toxins and bacteria. Research has shown that drinking 2.25 liters (9.5 cups) of water daily benefits the health of your skin. As we age, our skin loses density due to collagen and elastin breakdown. This is what causes the increase in sagging, fine lines, and wrinkles. Although water alone is not the solution to keeping your skin glowing, together with lifestyle changes, it will certainly help.

3. Reduce alcohol and coffee

Studies show that alcohol promotes the release of stress hormones that speeds up the aging process. It also hinders the normal functioning of the digestive system and restricts its ability to absorb vital nutrients. These include vitamins, minerals, protein, and carbohydrates. Likewise, vast amounts of coffee can be bad for you too. Too much caffeine dehydrates the body, causes inflammation, and results in the loss of collagen. All of these together can increase both wrinkles and acne.

Anti-aging foods to consider

So, now you know what not to eat, let’s look at what to eat. If you’re looking for some magic foods to reduce aging, we’ve got some for you! Remember though, these will not magically reduce or undo the aging process. Include the following foods in a balanced diet and be sure to get in plenty of exercise and water.

1. Watercress

Watercress is a little green plant that comes from the same family as kale and broccoli. It is rich in minerals and vitamins.

What are the anti-aging benefits of watercress?

Acts as an internal skin antiseptic;
Delivers more oxygen to your skin;
Increases the delivery of minerals to the cells in your body;
Reduces wrinkles due to its high content of antioxidants.

What nutrients does watercress contain?

Calcium;
Potassium;
Manganese;
Phosphorus;
Vitamins A, C, K, B-1, and B-2.

2. Papaya

Papaya is a superfly that is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals

What are the anti-aging benefits of papaya?

Improves skin elasticity and reduces wrinkles;
Delays the signs of aging due to antioxidants;
Contains papain which is one of nature’s best anti-inflammatory agents.

What nutrients does papaya contain?

Vitamins A, C, K, And E;
Calcium;
Potassium;
Magnesium;
Phosphorus;
B Vitamins.

3. Broccoli

Broccoli is an anti-inflammatory and is also packed with vitamin C.

What are the anti-aging benefits of broccoli?

Boosts the production of collagen which gives your skin elasticity;
Prevents dry skin.

What nutrients does broccoli contain?

Vitamins C and K;
A Variety Of Antioxidants;
Fiber;
Folate;
Lutein;
Calcium.

4. Avocado

Avos are packed with omega-3 fatty acids which do wonders for your skin health.

What are the anti-aging benefits of avocado?

Helps skin rejuvenation due to the high vitamin A content;
Decreases the toxins in your skin and reduces sun damage.

What nutrients does avocado contain?

Vitamins K, C, E, and A;
B Vitamins;
Potassium.

5. Bell Pepper

Red bell peppers, in particular, are loaded with antioxidants, which are your anti-aging go-to!

What are the anti-aging benefits of bell peppers?

High vitamin C content which aids collagen production;
Protects skin from sun damage and pollution due to anti-inflammatory properties.

What nutrients do bell peppers contain?

Vitamin K;
Thiamin;
Riboflavin;
Niacin;
Potassium;
Vitamin B6;
Folate.

6. Blueberries

Blueberries are an antioxidant superfood as they contain anthocyanin, which gives them their blue color.

What are the anti-aging benefits of blueberries?

Protects your skin from sun damage, pollution, and other toxins;
Reduces premature aging and collagen loss.

What nutrients do blueberries contain?

Fiber;
Vitamin C;
Vitamin K;
Manganese;
Potassium.

7. Pomegranates

Pomegranates are high in vitamin C and a variety of antioxidants.

What are the anti-aging benefits of pomegranates?

Reduces inflammation;
Contains punicalagin, which preserves collagen levels in your skin.

What vitamins does pomegranate contain?

Vitamin C and E;
Folate;
Potassium;
Vitamin K.

8. Spinach

Spinach is often thought of as the number one superfood, and for good reason. This little green machine helps with hydration and is rich in antioxidants.

What are the anti-aging benefits of spinach?

Enhances collagen production;
Promotes strong and shiny hair;
Reduces inflammation.

What nutrients does spinach contain?

Vitamins A, C, E, and K;
Magnesium;
Plant-based heme iron;
Lutein.

9. Nuts

Be sure to get plenty of almonds and walnuts in your diet and benefit from their anti-aging properties.