There are so many products that claim to combat aging, and many of them aren’t cheap. But a simpler and potentially more effective way to look and feel youthful is to take control of what you put in your body. Here are nutritious foods that research has found to have anti-aging qualities.

Carrots

Carrots are a sweet and crunchy snack that contains loads of beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. That stimulates skin cell growth (for healthy scalp and shiny hair) and builds collagen. Beta carotene also is packed with antioxidants, which protect the skin from free radicals–molecules associated with aging. Carrots are also nature’s toothbrush because they clean and whiten teeth with each munch.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes are also rich in beta carotene, which helps balance the skin’s pH and combats dryness, resulting in improved skin texture and tone. As an added benefit, sweet potatoes are loaded with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making them a nutritional winner.

Nuts

Nuts are an excellent source of protein, calcium, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids – all of which promote healthy, youthful skin. Essential fatty acids also help reduce swelling and inflammation, which is a common side effect of many skin conditions. Nuts also are packed with the mineral selenium, which helps repair cell damage and slows down the skin’s aging process.

Red wine

Yes, it’s true that a glass of red wine a day can protect you from heart disease. To sweeten the benefits, red wine also contains the antioxidant resveratrol, which can help prevent blood clots and soaks up free radicals that can damage your both your appearance and your health.

Avocados

This delicious fruit is packed with vitamin E, which protects against free radicals, and potassium, which helps maintain heart and bone health. It also contains antioxidants, which can ward off disease and slow the aging process.

Garlic

Garlic packs quite a healthy punch as it is an anti-viral, antibacterial food that can boost your immune system, and may also help reduce the spread and growth of cancer cells and lower your cholesterol and blood pressure.

Blueberries

Blueberries contain more antioxidants than all other berries which makes them excellent for fighting free radicals. They also have strong anti-inflammatory properties that reduce skin redness and wrinkles. Perhaps most surprising is that they may also help reduce the mental effects of aging because of the ingredient anthocyanin, which can slow the deterioration of mental function.

Leafy greens

Leafy greens are packed with lutein, an antioxidant which protects skin from sun damage and wrinkles. Leafy greens, including kale and spinach, are also rich in vitamin C, which is essential in building collagen. That can break down as we age, giving skin a gaunt, dull appearance.

Citrus

As with leafy greens, citrus fruits are high in vitamin C which boosts collagen production. Citrus fruits such as blood oranges and lemons are also rich in bioflavonoids that help defend the skin from sun damage.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain the powerful antioxidant lycopene,  which reduces skin redness and prevents UV damage. Tomatoes can make an excellent face mask, but will still work for your skin if you choose to just eat them.

 

Source: health central