Eliminating stress, getting quality sleep, and using sunscreen can go a long way toward turning back the clock. And there’s certainly plenty of wrinkle creams and serums on the market to try to hold back the hands of time.
But the real secret to fighting aging isn’t at some pricey spa or cosmetics boutique—it’s at the grocery store!
To understand why, you need to know that aging is really inflammation. As we age, we make fewer growth factors to naturally combat inflammation. That results in symptoms like lower energy levels, wrinkles, joint stiffness, and short-term memory loss.
The good news is that you can fight inflammation with your diet! The superfoods below are all packed with antioxidants to protect you from dangerous molecules that trigger cell damage, inflammation, aging, and disease.
1. Nuts
Nuts like pecans, almonds, and walnuts are chock-full of antioxidants and polyphenols that can prevent disease, as well as fiber to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Their omega-3 fats also decrease inflammation and curb age-related mental decline. That means nuts are a great way to stay young, from head to toe!
2. Dark chocolate
The antioxidants in dark chocolate are called “flavanols.” Flavanols are powerful multitaskers that benefit your heart and brain health, plus protect your cells from sun damage and keep your skin healthy. Those are all plenty of great reasons to incorporate a 2-ounce serving of high-flavanol dark chocolate into your daily routine!
3. Artichokes
Artichokes are one of my all-time favorite appetizers when eating out. They taste delicious, help protect your liver, and raise levels of glutathione—the master detoxifier of the human body. That detoxification is crucial to counteracting aging, so skip the crazy juice fasts and detox with roasted artichoke hearts instead!
4. Berries
The lovely colors of berries come from potent antioxidants known as “anthocyanins.” In addition to fighting inflammation and heart disease, anthocyanins can also help reduce the risk of several types of cancer. Add a handful of berries to your bowl of oatmeal for a delicious way to boost your health!
5. Turmeric
Curcumin is not only responsible for turmeric’s brilliant orange-yellow color, this impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory also has strong potential for helping to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s disease. Try sprinkling turmeric in your morning smoothie to fight inflammation and aging all day long!
6. Legumes
Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols, it’s no wonder that legumes are linked to a longer lifespan. In fact, one study showed that eating more legumes was the most significant dietary predictor of survival. Whether it’s black beans, chickpeas, or lentils, legumes may well be the edible fountain of youth!
7. Ginger
If you’re looking for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory powers, ginger packs a double punch! Considering that ongoing inflammation is the most important risk factor for age-related chronic disease, adding some fresh ginger to your meal can make a big difference in your health!
