Age is just a number, but feeling younger than you are can help you keep a youthful glow and an adventurous spirit. You can look years younger, too. It all begins with your skin, and diet plays a vital role.
Here are 8 anti-aging foods that can help keep your skin look years younger!
1. Berries
Whether you prefer strawberries, blackberries, blueberries or a handful of all three, snacking on these delicious fruits are great for your skin! Berries contain antioxidants that prevent or delay some types of cell damage. They also have the power to reduce joint swelling and pain. Blueberries in particular can improve cognitive abilities and help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. (1)
2. Avocado
Avocado is a superfood that contains healthy fats. Eating just one avocado a day can reduce your cholesterol levels and support the process of skin regeneration. Avocados provide your body with Vitamin C, potassium and antioxidants, which can help keep your skin looking young and healthy! (2)
3. Citrus Fruits
You probably know that citrus fruits are a primary source of Vitamin C. They also contain folic acid. Grapefruit, oranges and other citrus fruits can help decrease cholesterol levels in the body and uric acid in the blood. Consuming them regularly will help prevent circulatory problems and heart conditions. Drinking lemon juice first thing in the morning will allow your body to absorb all of it’s nutrients while detoxing your body! (3)
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are packed with nutrients! They contain Provitamin A, Vitamin C and folic acid. Lycopene is the antioxidant responsible for the red color of ripe tomatoes. This antioxidant is 14 times greater than the resveratrol found in red wine! It protects the skin against UV radiation while working to prevent cardiovascular, degenerative and infectious diseases. (4)
5. Turmeric
Turmeric is becoming increasingly popular for its amazing health benefits. Due to its anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, this spice is an excellent choice for seasoning your dishes. The compound curcumin, specifically, helps slow down the aging process, as well as provides your body with energy and boosts your mood during times of stress! (5)
6. Carrots
You’ve probably heard that carrots are good for your eyes, but they have plenty of other health benefits! The beta-carotene in carrots converts to Vitamin A in the body. It helps the retina and other parts of the eye to function smoothly. It also protects the skin from photoaging, which is premature wrinkling of the skin caused by exposure to UV rays! (6)
7. Garlic
While your breath after eating garlic isn’t always pleasant, spicing up your food has its health benefits! Garlic contains anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. It balances cholesterol levels, improves blood circulation and can even reduce the risk of certain cancers. This spice is a natural anti-aging superfood! (7)
8. Dark Chocolate
Finally, a good reason to cater to your sweet tooth! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants – specifically flavanols – that help your skin protect itself from UV damage and fight free radical damage, while hydrating the skin. Just make sure you’re eating the good quality stuff! (8, 9)
Why not grow your own? Check out some Honorable Mentions, along with cacao, that you can add in to your beauty diet to look years younger.