On November 19, 2014

Blueberries over botox: The top three anti-aging foods

By Kate Robitello

$114 billion, that’s how much money will be spent in 2015 on anti-aging products, remedies, and procedures. Undoubtedly, we live in a world where a youthful appearance is considered the epitome of health and beauty. Some signs of aging, such as laugh lines and crow’s feet, are not only unavoidable (at least for most if left to nature), but are signs of character, experience, and wisdom. However, premature aging due to a harsh lifestyle and poor diet is quite avoidable and, in some cases, reversible.

Food is, in fact, the most potent anti-aging tool you can use, and since you need to eat it anyway.  The investment is also minute compared to the amount the average woman spends annually on anti-aging products. Here are the top three food groups that you should consume generously for the sake of aging gracefully.

Berries

Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cherries, acai—all berries are wonderful for your skin and the prevention of aging. The darker the berries the better, as the darkest berries tend to contain the most anti-oxidants. Anthocyanins are the chemical compounds that give berries their dark pigmentation. According to a study published by Tufts University, anthocyanins not only prevent aging, but assist in improvement of overall mood. Regular berry consumption can also reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, cancer, arthritics, Alzheimer’s, and chronic inflammation.

Seeds

Chia seeds, native to South America, were consumed by the Aztecs and Mayans as a strengthening food (“chia” means “strength” in Mayan). Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, magnesium, manganese, calcium, and phosphorus. Just a single ounce of chia seeds provide one third of the fiber we need for the day!

Flax seeds have a near optimal Omega ratio. Flax is anti-inflammatory and has greater antioxidant content than many of the foods that are known for their antioxidant properties. In fact, of the 100 most commonly consumed foods that are rich in antioxidants, flax seeds rank at number nine! As for your Omega 3s—just two tablespoons of ground flax seed will provide you with plenty of Omega 3s for the day.

Pumpkin seeds provide a potent source of magnesium and zinc. One serving of pumpkin seeds provides almost 50 percent of the recommended daily amount of magnesium. Magnesium has been touted as the “most essential mineral,” as the list of bodily functions aided by magnesium is quite long—from energy creation to the pumping of the heart and even healthy bone and tooth formation. However, it is uncommon to find a person who is actually getting enough magnesium in his or her diet. Another beautifying mineral that is often under-appreciated is zinc. Zinc is absolutely essential for proper skin health, as well regulation of blood glucose, eye health, and immune support.

Dark leafy greens

Greens like dandelion, spinach, kale, collards, and Swiss chard are anti-aging powerhouses! Rich in Vitamins A and C, antioxidants, fiber, Omega 3s, and a variety of minerals, there’s a reason why “green juice” is the new and improved multi-vitamin. Consuming salads, sautéed greens, green smoothies and green juices is one of the most optimal ways to achieve youthful glowing skin, without pricey treatments that involve lasers, needles, and harsh chemicals. Looking for a better investment? Go for a juicer!

Photo submitted

The darker the berry, the better the anti-aging  qualities, and your mood!

Do you want to submit feedback to the editor?

Send Us An Email!

Related Posts

Where are we now when we were there then, before we became ourselves?

October 9, 2024
By Meira Droznah  Woolly on your way To being Isabella Are you aware of Your transformation or Are you only looking, now,  For a snuggly place  Maybe Mossy We crossed paths at the Intersection of October and September  The fall came and I missed The day The Equinox Is a mountain and a celestial Event…

Dream in Color: She has invited me to this space tonight

October 9, 2024
Yet I seem to be the least important person in the building to her Will I ever be an equal to her drinking buddies, who after years, she has never opened up to?  When she talks to everyone else in the room I sit and wonder if I will get a turn  A chance to…

Playing favorites: Choosing the perfect trail

October 9, 2024
A few weeks ago, I gave an interview for my boarding school magazine, after which I was sent only one follow up question: What is your favorite trail? Now the first thought out of my head was something snarky Lambonics phrase like, the one with the most snow on it. Or the one with the least…

Joking around

October 9, 2024
The word “fascism” gets thrown around a lot these days. In fact, it’s so overused that if you’re in the political sphere and haven’t been labeled a fascist, you’re probably doing something wrong.  The term “fascism” comes from the Italian word “fascio,” meaning “a bundle” or “group,” which in turn comes from the Latin “fasces,”…