Stop the clock with these youth-promoting staples
What if the fountain of youth was actually hiding in your kitchen?
One of the biggest causes of ageing is inflammation in the body, which comes as a response to free radicals. A lack of hydration in the skin’s structures is also a contributor.
The great news is that many healthy foods are high in nutritional components, such as antioxidants and good fats, which help to actively fight free radical damage and provide deep cellular hydration. This means eating the right foods can have a significant impact on keeping you looking and feeling vibrant and youthful.
Here FIT shares these top anti-ageing foods to chow down on to help turn back the biological clock.
Berries
Berries such as blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, pomegranate and acai are foods that are exceptionally high in antioxidants. One of these antioxidants that is particularly useful for anti-ageing is resveratrol, which is produced naturally by plants in response to stress. When we consume foods high in resveratrol, the same protective qualities that benefit the plant are transferred over to our bodies.
Also try: Dark grapes and red wine (yes please!).
Avocado
Avocados are bursting with a very healthy type of fat, monounsaturated fat, which helps your skin stay hydrated. This fat is also beneficial for absorbing fat-soluble vitamins, which your skin needs to look its best.
Also try: Olive oil, raw nuts and seeds.
Garlic
Garlic is an incredible food that can easily be added to most savoury dished. It promotes the growth of white blood cells, which are the body’s natural germ defense. It can also help to lower the bad LDL cholesterol levels and reduce high blood pressure. Either fresh or dried will do the trick.
Salmon
Oily fish, especially wild caught salmon, are an abundant source of omega-3 fats. Omega-3 fatty acids are great for preventing the buildup of cholesterol and maintaining heart health. These fats are also one of the ultimate anti-ageing nutrients for the skin, keeping it hydrated and glowing, whilst delivering a noteworthy dose of vitamin D and selenium.
Also try: Sardines and mackerel.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are exceptionally rich in vitamin C, the beauty nutrient, as well as being high water content for hydration. The vitamin C supports collagen production to keep your skin elastic and supple, which are the characteristics of youthful cell structures. It is also a powerful antioxidant to fight ageing and free radical damage caused by exposure to UV rays and pollutants.
Spinach
Spinach is undoubtedly one of the healthiest foods around. It boasts a plethora of phytonutrients, antioxidants, and essential vitamins and minerals. The high levels of vitamins K, C and E, folate, iron and carotenoids are your anti-ageing friends.
Also try: Broccoli, which is high in magnesium and vitamin C, fantastic for the immune system and a youthful complexion.