03 Aug 10 ANTI-AGING FOODS TO SUPPORT YOUR 40s-AND-BEYOND BODY
When we diet on vibrant foods loaded with antioxidants, healthy fats, water, and essential nutrients, our body will show its appreciation through its largest organ which is “our skin”.
Eating fruits and veggies is usually recommended as the safest and healthiest way to combat dull complexions and fine lines. Below are 10 of the best anti-aging foods to nourish your body for a glow that comes from within:
1. WATERCRESS
This nutrient-dense hydrating leafy green is a great source of:
• calcium
• potassium
• manganese
• phosphorus
• vitamins A, C, K, B-1, and B-2
Watercress acts as an internal skin antiseptic and increases the circulation and delivery of minerals to all cells of the body, resulting in enhanced oxygenation of the skin. Packed with vitamins A and C, the antioxidants in watercress may neutralize harmful free radicals, helping to keep fine lines and wrinkles away.
2. RED BELL PEPPER
Red bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants which helps with anti-aging. In addition to their high content of vitamin C which is good for collagen production, red bell peppers contain powerful antioxidants called carotenoids.
Carotenoids are plant pigments responsible for the bright red, yellow, and orange colors you see in many fruits and vegetables. They have a variety of anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect skin pollution, and environmental toxins.
3. PAPAYA
This fruit is rich in a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may help to improve skin elasticity and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These include:
• vitamins A, C, K, and E
• calcium
• potassium
• magnesium
• phosphorus
• B vitamins
The wide range of antioxidants in papaya helps to fight free radical damage and may delay signs of aging. Papaya also contains an enzyme called papain, which provides additional anti-aging benefits by working as one of nature’s best anti-inflammatory agents.
So yes, eating papaya (or using products containing papain) may help your body shed dead skin cells, leaving you with glowing, vibrant skin!
4. BLUEBERRIES
Blueberries are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as an age-defying antioxidant called anthocyanin.
These powerful antioxidants may help protect skin from damage due to the sun, stress, and pollution by moderating the inflammatory response and preventing collagen loss.
5. BROCCOLI
Broccoli is an anti-inflammatory, anti-aging powerhouse packed with:
• vitamins C and K
• a variety of antioxidants
• fiber
• folate
• lutein
• calcium
Your body needs vitamin C for the production of collagen, the main protein in skin that gives it strength and elasticity.
6. SPINACH
Spinach is super hydrating and packed with antioxidants that help to oxygenate and replenish the entire body. It’s also rich in:
• vitamins A, C, E, and K
• magnesium
• plant-based heme iron
• lutein
This versatile leafy green’s high vitamin C content enhances collagen production to keep skin firm and smooth. But that’s not all. The vitamin A it provides may promote strong, shiny hair, while vitamin K has been shown to help reduce inflammation in cells.
7. NUTS
Many nuts (especially almonds) are a great source of vitamin E, which may help repair skin tissue, retain skin moisture, and protect skin from damaging UV rays. Walnuts even contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids that may help:
• strengthen skin cell membranes
• protect against sun damage
• give skin a beautiful glow by preserving its natural oil barrier
8.AVOCADO
Avocados are high in inflammation-fighting fatty acids that promote smooth, and supple skin. They also contain a variety of essential nutrients that may prevent the negative effects of aging, including:
• vitamins K, C, E, and A
• B vitamins
• potassium
The high content of vitamin A in avocados can help us shed dead skin cells, leaving us with a gorgeous, glowing skin. Their carotenoid content may also assist in blocking toxins and damage from the sun’s rays and also help to protect against skin cancers.
You can try it topically as an incredible moisturizing mask to fight inflammation, reduce redness, and help prevent wrinkles!
9. SWEET POTATOES
The orange color of the sweet potato comes from an antioxidant called beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A. Vitamin A may help restore skin elasticity, promote skin cell turnover, and ultimately contribute to soft, youthful-looking skin.
This delicious root vegetable is also a great source of vitamins C and E, both of which may protect our skin from harmful free radicals and keep our complexion radiant.
10. POMEGRANATE SEEDS
Pomegranates have been used for centuries as a healing medicinal fruit. High in vitamin C and a variety of potent antioxidants, pomegranates may protect our body from free radical damage and reduce levels of inflammation in our system.
These healthy fruits also contain a compound called punicalagins, which may help to preserve collagen in the skin, slowing signs of aging.
DO YOU KNOW?
By nourishing ourselves with these anti-aging foods, we can gain fuel to look and feel our best.
If you’re looking for more delicious plants to try, choose fruits and vegetables deep in color. The rich shades are usually a sign of stronger radical fighting abilities to keep your skin healthy and vibrant. The more colors you can fit on your plate, the better.
It’s time to slow down signs of aging and truly glow from within!