We all want to look younger than we are and live as long as possible. Although it’s our genetic inheritance that gives us a head start, our diet also plays a vital part in helping us increase our lifespan and maintain beautiful youthful skin for longer.
Today we at Bright Side reveal the 11 anti-aging foods that keep your skin at its finest.
1. Avocado
You’ve probably heard that avocado makes you gain weight because of its high fat content. But perhaps you did not know that those fats are very healthy. Eating one avocado a day reduces cholesterol levels and supports the process of skin regeneration. It provides your body with vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants, and it is rich in folic acid.
Tip: Have you tried avocado juice? It’s never too late to try new things. It’s very creamy and easy to make. Just put avocado pulp, milk, crushed ice, and a spoonful of brown sugar into the blender, and blend until smooth.
2. Berries
Strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapes... These small fruits contain antioxidant properties that prevent or delay some types of cell damage and can reduce joint swelling and pain.
We especially recommend that you consume blueberries as they improve cognitive abilities and help prevent urinary diseases, Alzheimer’s, and dementia.
3. Carrots
This vegetable is known to protect the eyes thanks to beta-carotene, a substance that the body converts to vitamin A. It helps the retina and other parts of the eye to function smoothly. It also protects the skin from photoaging — premature wrinkling of the skin caused by exposure to UV rays.
Remember not to overcook carrots as this will significantly reduce the amount of essential nutrients and vitamins.
4. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are a primary source of vitamin C and folic acid. They help decrease levels of cholesterol and uric acid in the blood. If you consume them regularly, they will help you prevent circulatory problems, heart conditions, and diseases like gout which cause terrible pain in the joints.
Drinking lemon juice on an empty stomach cleans the colon and detoxifies the body. In addition, your body will absorb its nutrients first of all, and you will feel healthy and radiant.
5. Garlic
Not only is garlic a powerful weapon to deter vampires but it also kills most infections if used properly. We know that garlic breath can be very strong and hard to get rid of, but the incredible benefits garlic offers make it worthwhile.
Its fungicidal and bactericidal properties make this anti-aging superfood one of the best natural antibiotics. It also balances cholesterol, improves blood circulation and hypertension, and helps reduce the risk of certain cancers.
6. Dark chocolate
Finally a sweet treat! Dark chocolate has numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidants such as flavonoids that help your skin protect itself from UV damage, fight free radicals, and improve its hydration and thickness. But don’t get too happy too early: it’s only chocolate with at least 75% cocoa that will give you all the antioxidant benefits.
7. Olive oil
Olive oil is not only an essential part of a healthy diet but also a worthy addition to your skincare routine. It’s one of the major sources of alpha-linolenic acid which keeps your skin hydrated and toned, preventing its aging.
Tip: Gently apply a few drops of olive oil around your eyes at night just before you go to bed. This will make your skin smooth and moisturized and decrease the appearance of fine lines. No rinsing required.
8. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are not only juicy and delicious but also great for your health. They are filled with nutrients and contain a great deal of vitamin A, vitamin C, and folic acid.
Lycopene, which is responsible for the red color of ripe tomatoes, is an antioxidant 14 times greater than the resveratrol found in red wine. It protects the skin against UV radiation and also has a great effect in the prevention of cardiovascular, degenerative, and infectious diseases. By the way, lycopene is easier to absorb when the tomatoes are cooked and combined with a little olive oil.
9. Oily fish
Oily fish, such as salmon, tuna, anchovies, and turbot, are a great source of Omega 3 fatty acids which help cell regeneration and keep cholesterol low. They are also very good for skin care as they reverse and prevent the oxidative damage that comes with age.
In addition, oven-baked salmon is very easy to prepare. Just sprinkle it with salt and pepper, cover with rosemary sprigs and lemon slices, drizzle with olive oil, and bake until cooked.
10. Turmeric
This plant, which is usually found in powder form, is becoming more and more popular, and there’s a reason for it. Its anti-cancer, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great choice when it comes to seasoning your dishes. It also slows down the aging process, gives you energy, and lifts your mood in times of stress.