The Best Foods to Fight Aging 

It’s common knowledge that the foods we eat play a vital role in our overall health and well-being. The foods we consume however, may also serve as important weapons in the battle against aging.

Various edible items are believed to curtail aging, and the beneficial nutrients such products contain and the biological processes these substances stimulate , may be the key to preventing or slow down the development of specific maladies, allowing us to preserve a more youthful appearance.

Brassica Vegetables

Also referred to as cruciferous vegetables, these natural products include cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, radishes, cabbage and broccoli and are rife with a valuable substance called glucosinolates. Scientists opine that these chemicals help the body manage stress, fight the inflammation that could precipitate various physical and biological maladies, kill certain infection-causing microscopic organisms and may provide a certain level of protection against specific forms of cancer. In addition, this classification of vegetables contains numerous crucial nutrients such as potassium, calcium, beta-carotene and vitamins C, E and K.

Fish

Many types of fish, particularly salmon, have long been touted for containing health-stimulating substances. Arguably, the most prominent of these chemicals are Omega-3 fatty acids. These chemicals are thought to prevent or diminish the onset of age-related vision loss and are also believed to possess mind-stimulating properties that could alleviate the cognitive issues, like memory loss, that may develop as someone gets older. Most fishes also contain high quantities of protein that are necessary for building and maintaining energy levels.

Maca

A derivative of the Lepidium meyenii plant, maca is highly believed to stabilize the hormonal deficiencies men and women often encounter as they grow older. Scientists and nutritionists opine this substance is especially effective in combating the sexual manifestations both sexes might experience due to age-onset hormonal imbalances.

Nuts

Many types of nuts including pecans, walnuts and chestnuts are rife with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. Scientists consider these fat substances important weapons in the fight against diabetes, and heart and cardiovascular ailments.

Blueberries

Many physicians and nutritionists believe blueberries are among the most healthy, anti-aging foods an individual can consume. These tiny fruits contain significant amounts of antioxidants. These substances are paramount in helping the body guard against the buildup of free radicals. Free radicals are environmental toxins that invade the cells, tissues and organs and precipitate inflammation. Should inflammation progress, bodily aches and pains can occur and could eventually lead to the development of serious illnesses, like diabetes, cancer and heart disease.

Garlic

Garlic contains an element called allicin. Not only is allicin a noted antioxidant but also a powerful antimicrobial agent that has shown effectiveness in thwarting the spread of bacterial, viral, yeast and parasitic infections within the gastrointestinal tract. Maintenance of a healthy digestive system can curtail the development of age-related gastrointestinal issues like ulcers.

Yogurt

This dairy product contains high concentrations of calcium, which plays an integral role in maintaining bone strength and density. The nutrient is also vital to the prevention of osteoporosis, which typically is an age-related medical condition that leaves those stricken at greater risk of suffering bone fractures.

Olive Oil

This product is not only abundant in monounsaturated fats but contain large concentrations of polyphenols. Such substances are considered to be among the most powerful antioxidants and may play an important role in regulating body weight.

Water

While this is not technically a food that people chew and eat, water is critical to maintaining proper health and slowing the aging process. Should the body’s cells not remain properly hydrated, damage could result and a host of illnesses may follow. In addition, hydration is important in sustaining healthy skin. Dehydration might lead to skin destruction which could negatively alter a person’s physical appearance.

Foods Containing Fiber

As people age, their digestive processes may slow, leading to numerous digestive problems. Fiber plays an integral part in regulating the digestive tract and promoting regular bowel movements.

Red Wine

Again, not exactly a food per say, but in moderation, red wine is believed to decrease blood concentrations of bad cholesterol, lower blood pressure and strengthen blood vessels.

Citrus Fruits

These edible items are abundant in Vitamin C, which like antioxidants, are thought to prevent inflammation and infection.

Although all of these foods have significant health, and anti-aging benefits, keep in mind that genetics may have an important role in determining which foods work best for our health. In addition, the key to longevity and overall well-being is found in a balanced and inclusive diet and a healthy lifestyle.