Most of the time, when it comes to eating youth-boosting foods, we’re talking about what to avoid: steer clear of alcohol (too dehydrating), reduce your sugar intake (could damage your collagen levels), use a little less salt (high sodium levels can lead to water retention and “puffiness”).
But a much more fun (and delicious) way to sip from the fountain of youth is to actually nibble on a couple of nutrient-packed, antioxidant-heavy foods to keep your skin smooth and your brain buzzing.
Avocado: Are you surprised, really? Everyone’s favourite fruit does more than just taste incredible smashed on toast with a poached egg; an excellent source of vitamin E, which does a fantastic job of preventing damage to collagen, avocadoes make for better skin and a happier, healthier heart and eyesight, too.
Brazil nuts: A fresh-faced complexion has a lot to do with skin elasticity, and Brazil nuts are chock-full of a mineral called selenium, which can help to improve just that. As a bonus, selenium can actually reduce your risk of skin cancer while preventing premature aging; grab a 30 g handful each day for a healthy hit.
Red grapes: Resveratrol is a super antioxidant, which, research suggests, helps to activate a protein that has been linked to health and longevity. It’s also believed to aid weight loss, by converting “white fat” into “beige fat” – which, we’re just saying, may mean that a glass of wine a night could help you lose weight.
Pea fritters with avocado goat’s cheese
Salmon: Just like avocado, there doesn’t seem to be anything salmon can’t do, mainly thanks to essential fatty acids called omega-3s. These nifty little health bombs improve the skin’s flexibility and protects against wear and tear; a lack of healthy fats like omega-3s can result in dry skin and wrinkles. So eat up!
Kale: There’s a reason why the health world is obsessed with kale, and it all comes down to plenty of antioxidants, vitamins and even more omega-3s. Nibbling on this particular leafy green can assist liver detoxification, nourish and plump the skin and prevent dryness.
Turmeric: Another antioxidant, this time curcumin; found in Indian-favourite turmeric, curcumin has long been used as an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory, and it turns out that it can do wonders for your brain, too. Scientists believe that turmeric can preserve memory and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Blueberries: On the topic of memory, blueberries have been shown to provide a “notable improvement in cognitive performance and brain function” – and can even reverse prematurely greying hair.
Watermelon: Firstly, watermelon is, obviously, rich in water, and keeping a healthy, hydrated body is key to helping you stay young. Secondly? Yet another antioxidant, this one called lycopene, has strong anti-aging properties that can help to ward off heart disease and cancer.
This story originally appeared on Food To Love.
