As people age, their bodies undergo various changes both externally and internally that affect their health and appearance. However, certain nutrients nourish your body and give it a more youthful look and feel. Here are five foods you should add to your daily diet to help you stay young.
FRUITS Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries are full of antioxidants. They are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids. Anti-aging factors that cause wrinkles include oxidative stress and inflammation, which antioxidants fight. Antioxidants destroy free radicals; they have a protective effect on your skin and stimulate collagen production, so they are great for maintaining that youthful glow and elastic skin. Adding a few berries to your breakfast or snack will help curb your sweet tooth and give your skin a chance to look younger and feel healthier.
NUTS Nuts and seeds are nutrient-dense sources and can help you look and feel younger. Walnuts, almonds and flaxseeds are all rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are key to healthy skin and help fight inflammation. Omega-3s keep your skin hydrated and can even make wrinkles less noticeable. Along with nuts, seeds are also a great source of vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects your skin from harmful sun rays. This is a great way to get some healthy fats into your diet: try a small handful of mixed nuts or a sprinkle of chia seeds on your yogurt.
GREENS Dark leafy greens, especially spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These foods are high in vitamin K, which is helpful for skin health and wrinkle reduction. Leafy greens also contain chlorophyll, which cleanses the body and promotes healthier-looking skin. Add a salad or green smoothie to your diet as a way to take advantage of the nutritional power of these foods.
AVOCADO Not only is it a trendy topping for your toast, it’s also a great source of healthy fats and antioxidants. Packed with monounsaturated fats, avocados help keep your skin hydrated and supple. They also contain vitamins C and E, which are essential for skin integrity and tissue repair. Avocados can be added to salads, smoothies, or even used as a dip. Avocados are easy to add to your diet, primarily because they have a creamy, versatile texture that can be easily incorporated into many dishes.
OILY FISH Oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality protein. Omega-3s help reduce inflammation in the body while nourishing healthy skin elasticity and moisture. More importantly, they’re big players in brain health, a must-have for keeping you fully alert. Eating oily fish a few times a week can help keep you looking young and cognitively sharp. If you’re not a fish fan, don’t worry; you can get your omega-3s elsewhere, from supplements or herbal sources. These five foods will make a big difference to how you look and feel with each passing day. They provide the body with vital nutrients and support overall good health and well-being. When it comes to looking young, remember that nothing is more important than maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly and looking after your skin properly. Eat for good health, not old age.