Aging is a gradual, continuous process of biological change that begins in early adulthood. Aging is often described by the gradual decline in bodily functions. Although aging is unavoidable, some anti-aging foods can slow down the aging process. Below are some anti-aging foods that can help attain the younger look we yearn for.
This remains one of the healthiest fats on the planet. Several types of research have shown that extra virgin olive oil can fight off many common aging-related diseases. It lowers blood pressure, lowers the risk of heart disease, prevents metabolic syndrome, and can effectively fight cancer. Olive oil also helps the skin look younger. Animal research and lab studies show that its potent anti-inflammatory effect on the skin may protect it from sun damage. In addition to this, olive oil consists of monounsaturated fat, linked to increased skin elasticity and firmness. Those with a higher intake of monounsaturated fat from olive oil were least inflicted with sun damages.
Green tea is high in antioxidants that protect the skin from free radicals. These free radicals are unstable molecules that form during metabolism and in response to stress. These antioxidants react with them and change their structure, so they are unable to cause any damage. Green tea is high in polyphenols. Polyphenols are antioxidants that are capable of combating diabetes, inflammation, insulin resistance, and heart diseases. Polyphenols also help protect collagen, the main protein in the skin. This action reduces the signs of aging. In one study, individuals with sun-damaged skin were treated with green tea cream and supplements for 8 weeks. After this period, there were modest improvements in their skin texture and elasticity.See more benefits of green tea.
Fatty fish is truly an anti-aging food. It contains long-chained omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial against heart diseases, inflammation, and ulcerative colitis, among other diseases. In addition to this, omega-3 fatty acids reduce the damages incurred by the skin from exposure to harmful sun rays. It reduces the severity of skin burns and inflammation. All these features make fatty fish one of the best anti-aging foods you should try.
A popular fatty fish is salmon. In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, salmon offers an added advantage that helps the skin look younger. Salmon contains astaxanthin which is responsible for the pink color of the fish. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid antioxidant that is very beneficial to the skin. This compound has been shown to neutralize the damages caused by free radicals, calm inflammation, and solve the problem of eczema. Another mind-blowing fact about astaxanthin is that it wards off wrinkles, keeping the skin brighter and tighter.
Dark chocolates possess one of the most powerful antioxidant profiles. Studies suggest it may reduce blood pressure, increase insulin sensitivity, and improve arteries’ functionality and elasticity. Dark chocolate houses flavanols. Flavanols are strong antioxidants that help protect the skin from sun damage. However, the level of flavanols varies significantly among different types of chocolate. In addition, one study showed that high-flavanol dark chocolates doubled the time people could stay in the sun before feeling the effects of its harmful rays. This is a good thing as it keeps the skin safe from the sun’s harmful rays.
Vegetables
Vegetables are rich in nutrients and very low in calories. They contain antioxidants that help reduce the risk of heart diseases, cataracts, and even cancer. The majority of vegetables are also high in carotenoids like beta carotene. Beta carotene helps protect the body against sun radiation and free radicals, both of which are major causes of skin aging. Some of the best sources of beta carotene are carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins. In addition, vegetables are also rich in vitamin C, which enhances the production of collagen, which has strong anti oxidizing effects. Vegetables having the highest vitamin C include bell peppers, tomatoes, leafy greens, and broccoli.
Flaxseeds are popularly known for their amazing health benefits. They contain a very compound called lignan. Lignans are a large group of polyphenols mostly found in plants, seeds, whole grains, and vegetables. Lignans can lower cholesterol and reduce blood sugar and insulin levels. They have also shown promising effects against breast and prostate cancer. In addition to this, flaxseeds house an omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). This fatty acid protects the skin from sun radiation and may reduce sun-related skin damage.
Other anti-aging foods include;
- Pomegranate
- Avocados
- Tomatoes
- Bone broth
- Spices
