Superfood and Anti-Aging

Beat the clock with super effective superfoods to ward off the effects of aging. Scientists now believe that eating certain types of foods may hold the answer to one of the most natural and effective anti-aging breakthroughs.

The strongest anti-aging foods are those that contain antioxidants which protect against free radical damage and these same antioxidants can be found in all fruits and vegetables. But there are certain starlets of the fruit and vegetable category that can almost give a natural face-lift!

Here are our favorites:

1. Blueberries – These little blue babies really pack an antioxidant punch. Although most fruits and veggies contain antioxidants, blueberries have been ranked no. 1 in antioxidant activity by Tufts University when compared to 60 others, rating highest in their capacity to destroy free radicals.

2. Turkey – It not only brings back memories of family get togethers, but is also a major source of carnosine. Carnosine is a vital, skin friendly protein that slows down the growth of abnormal fibres in the skin’s collagen, which causes the usually elastic collagen fibres to stiffen, resulting in lines and wrinkles. Turkey is also a very good source of selenium which is fundamentally important to human health, especially cardiovascular health.

3. Tomatoes – In the area of food research, nothing has been hotter in the last few years than the study of lycopene and it’s anti-cancer effects. Lycopene just seems to have the uncanny ability to protect cells and other structures in the body from oxygen damage. It is also believed to play a role in the prevention of heart disease and prostate problems. Surprisingly, cooked tomatoes contain 5 times more lycopene than raw ones.

4. Nuts and Seeds – Preferably eaten raw and unsalted, nuts can be sprinkled on salads, vegetables and cereals. Brazil nuts contain a rich source of selenium which is vital for the action of many of the antioxidant enzymes in the body. Walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, macadamia or pistacio are all packed with omega-3 fats which is also great for heart health and beautiful skin.

5. Salmon – Especially wild salmon is low in calories and saturated fat, yet high in protein and omega-3 and essential fatty acids. Dr. Nicholas Perricone recommends wild salmon for prevention of skin sagging by stimulating nerve function, causing the skin’s muscles to contract and tighten.

Of course there are many more antioxidants you may like to explore and these include carrots, olives and olive oil, pawpaw, avocadoes, kiwi fruit, strawberries, any kind of dark berry, red grapes, yogurt, and soybeans.