Can certain foods fight the aging process ?
Does your diet hold the secret to the fountain-of-youth ? It ’ s possible . Certain foods are packed with powerful antioxidants that help remove free radicals from the skin and body . Though there is no way to completely stop Mother Nature , eating a diet rich with essential nutrients can keep your skin nice and healthy . Haley Robinson , a clinical dietitian at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital , recommends incorporating the following foods into your diet : 1 . Tomatoes : “ Tomatoes have vitamin C , which helps build collagen and improve the appearance of wrinkles by making your skin look firmer ,” says Robinson . “ They also contain lycopene , which helps protect your skin from UV damage .” 2 . Fish : Choosing foods that contain healthy fats help moisturize your skin . Fish that include omega- 3 fatty acids , like salmon and tuna , are some of the best options . Omega-3 found in fish also helps lower your cholesterol and reduce inflammation in your body to prevent damage to your blood vessels . Damaged blood vessels can lead to heart disease and strokes . 3 . Honey : Honey is full of antioxidants that help with anti-aging . “ It is considered sugar , but does not cause inflammation , which is pro-aging , like regular sugar in your body ,” says Robinson . 4 . Green Tea : Green tea is filled with antioxidants that help cells grow properly and defend against mutation of cells and the production of free radical cells .
5 . Blueberries and raspberries : Blueberries and raspberries are full of antioxidants , vitamins , probiotics , flavonoids and polyphenols . “ Berries can fight off free radical cells and help regenerate new skin ,” says Robinson . “ And the compounds in berries help reduce inflammation and oxidative damage , which are two things that have been associated with age-related memory deficit and motor function .” 6 . Yogurt : Yogurt contains probiotics , which help regulate digestion and increase good bacteria in the gut , but also can help make your skin look healthier . Yogurt is also a good source of calcium , which can help decrease risk of osteoporosis . 7 . Protein-rich foods : “ As we age , our skin wrinkles from weakening of collagen and elastin in our skin ,” says Robinson . “ Amino acids help rebuild and repair damaged skin . A diet high in protein-rich foods such as meat , fish , eggs , and nuts may help prevent wrinkling .” 8 . Olive oil : Foods rich in monounsaturated fats , such as olive oil , can reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer , thereby prolonging one ’ s life .
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This article is courtesy of Living Better Piedmont . For more information on Piedmont Newton Hospital , please visit piedmont . org .