Aging is inevitable, but what if the food you ate could slow down the effects of aging, improve your skin, and even help you avoid certain types of cancer? There are certain foods that when eaten regularly can add years to your life. Other foods help reverse the effects of sun damage and air pollution, while others keep your skin looking younger and wrinkle-free. Not only do these foods pack major antioxidants and health benefits, they can also be swapped for other food items you use or regularly add to the cart during your weekly grocery shop.
Olive oil
This Mediterranean staple is attributed to the Mediterranean people living longer, healthier lives. Swap out canola oil and butter for this health-packed oil. It can be used on everything from roasting veggies to greasing a pan. Why is it so great? A phytonutrient in olive oil helps reduce inflammation, which decreases the risk of breast cancer and its recurrence. In addition, Olive Oil Times reports that Diabetes Care journal published a study that shows diets rich in olive oil reduced the risk of type two diabetes by almost 50 percent. If that isn’t enough, this health packed oil may help prevent strokes, slow down the aging of the heart, fight osteoporosis, and prevent skin cancer, according to Olive Oil Times.
Yogurt
Aside from being creamy and delicious, yogurt is packed with calcium and protein. It helps you stay full longer and builds strong bones. The active cultures in yogurt keep your digestion running smoothly and keep away intestine infection. Even those who are lactose intolerant are still typically able to enjoy this tasty treat that helps you absorb nutrients and stabilizes the immune system. For optimal health benefits skip the sugary fruit flavored options and stick with plain, full-fat yogurt.
Fish
You may opt for chicken or beef, but what your body really needs is fish. Researchers first noticed the power of fish when they studied the Eskimos who had a noticeable lower average of heart attacks and strokes while they maintained a heavy fish-based diet. Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are said to help fight cardiovascular disease, prostate cancer, vision loss, and dementia. In addition, this super food provides plenty of vitamin D, protein, some B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Nuts
Not only are nuts high in protein and make a good-for-you portable snack, but they are also good for your heart. That’s good news for Americans as heart disease is currently the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the Mayo Clinic, nuts help lower your bad cholesterol which is one of the primary causes of heart disease. In addition, nuts may reduce your risk of developing blood clots that lead to fatal heart attacks. Those tiny nuts you take for granted are stuffed with unsaturated fats, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, vitamin E, and of course, protein.
Blueberries
Not only are they the perfect pairing for your bowl of oats or the topping for a pancake, blueberries are also rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and lots of age-fighting antioxidants. Blueberries can neutralize the oil levels in your skin that lead to acne, fight wrinkles and damaged skin by neutralizing free radicals. Eat these by the handful for younger, softer looking skin.
Broccoli
Not only do you need to worry about your heart and skin as you age, but your brain may need a little extra love as well. Broccoli is high in lignans, a phytoestrogen that is said to benefit cognitive skills like thinking, reasoning, and remembering. This easy to find and cook veggie helps your nervous system perform properly and is said to fight Alzheimer’s Disease.
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