According to some researchers, diet is the “single most important predictor of health outcomes in the modern world.” That is a monumental claim to make, but it’s backed up by solid data.
These researchers also claim that the quality of a person’s diet can determine their risk for chronic disease or premature death. On the flip side, it can also determine a person’s longevity. Unfortunately, diet is culture-based and hard science does little to influence the population’s diet choices.
If you know how important diet is to your health and wellbeing, check out some essential anti-aging foods below.
Japanese Green Tea
Japanese green tea, also known as matcha, works wonders for the Far East. Japan has one of the longest life expectancies in the world. The reasons for this are complex, but their loyalty to green tea drinking certainly has an impact.
Green tea is rich in antioxidants. These compounds inhibit oxidation in the body. Oxidation is a normal, necessary process, but when it produces too many free radicals in the body, they can react with healthy cells and damage them.
Drinking green tea is an easy way to work more antioxidants into your diet and balance out the number of antioxidants and free radicals.
Types of Fish
Fatty fish are a healthy source of protein flush with omega-3 fatty acids. These fish include salmon, sardines, mackerel, cod, herring, and trout. However, certain types of these fish may have a high mercury content that should be avoided.
Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy greens just look healthy — and they are! Some of the healthiest examples include watercress, spinach, kale, and Swiss chard.
Not only are these leafy greens packed with things like Vitamin K and C that benefit collagen production and reduce inflammation in the body, but they are even linked with slower cognitive decline in old age.
For added benefit, make a salad with a cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oil-based dressing.
Specific Fruits
The next time you visit friends or family in elderly care facilities, bring them papaya or avocado. These fruits are easy to eat and are loaded with anti-aging compounds.
Some more healthy fruits include pomegranates, tomatoes, and blueberries. A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that dark fruits have more antioxidants.
Nuts and Seeds
Some nuts and seeds, like walnuts and flaxseeds, are also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. This is good news for vegetarians who don’t eat fish.
Other nuts, like almonds, contain compounds like Vitamin E that protect the skin against damage.
Anti-Aging Foods: A Lifestyle Change
Working more anti-aging foods into your diet is a lifestyle change. Lifestyle changes have to be slow to be sustainable. Start with one or two of these ingredients and give it time to make them a routine part of your diet.
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