Top 10 Anti-Aging Foods

(BeWellBuzz) Every year, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) spends millions of dollars on research to explore different ways of increasing life span. In their quest for youth and longevity, researchers are constantly digging into anti-aging drugs, nutritional supplements and diet plans.

Why do Japanese people have the longest life span?

It has been found that people in islands of Okinawa in Southern Japan have five times longer life expectancy than those living in the United States and other industrial regions.

“According to an Okinawa Centenarian Study, there are about 50 centenarians per 100,000 people in Okinawa, Japan versus only 10 in 100,000 in the U.S. and most other developed countries.”

So, how do they do it? Bradley Willcox, M.D., co-principal investigator of the study confirmed that the reason for Okinawans’ longevity is high amounts of sweet potatoes, bitter melon (a tropical fruit that they use in stir-fries) and sanpin tea (a blend of green tea that they drink regularly). Since these foods are rich in anti-oxidants, they help in protecting our body from cellular wear and tear leading to longer life span. Japanese people also consume large amount of anti-aging foods in their regular diet.

What Are Anti-Aging Foods?

Many studies have confirmed that there are some naturally available foods that contain anti-aging properties. These foods a.k.a Anti-Aging Foods, when consumed on a regular basis, can not only increase your life span but also help in staying away from age-related diseases like osteoporosis, diabetes and heart disease.

What Are The Top 10 Anti-Aging Foods That You Need To Include In Your Diet?

1. Green Tea: Yup, all the hype about Green Tea is actually true. Studies have shown that green tea positively impacts the length of telomeres, the DNA sequence at the end of chromosomes that shorten the cells age. With its natural anti-aging property and loads of anti-oxidants, Green Tea is a perfect addition to your daily routine. Replace caffeinated coffee/tea with green tea and you can live longer.

2. Dark Chocolate: Who said indulgence isn’t bliss? Research shows that eating moderate amounts of dark chocolate has great benefits to heart. Dark chocolate has high amount of antioxidants that protect your heart against aging, damage and heart disease. So, instead of milk chocolates, you can eat dark chocolate and ensure that you retain your supple, healthy looking skin for long.

3. Avocado: Contrary to what many people believe Avocado is not a vegetable, it’s a fruit and a very good source of mono-unsaturated fats, needed to fight bad cholesterol. Rich in Vitamin E, this delectable fruit has anti-aging properties that keep your skin healthy and fights premature aging. If you are fond of salads, Avocado is a great addition to you salad dressing or you can even add it to your breakfast sandwich. 

4. Walnuts: Many people think that dry fruits are packed with calories. However, walnut is a great source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. They help in controlling cholesterol levels and enhance functioning of digestive system and immunity. Rich in a variety of minerals, walnut is an anti-aging food that you can add to your salads and desserts without any guilt.

5. Kale: Filled with two powerful anti-oxidants namely carotenoids and flavonoids, Kale is a great vegetable that protects our cells from free radicals that cause oxidative stress. Since one cup of kale has only 36 calories and zero grams of fat, it is a great addition to a weight loss diet. Add Kale to your soup and salads for a healthy and nutritious diet. 

6. Berries: In a research study at Tufts University, scientists have found that several compounds in blueberries and other berries help in mitigating inflammations. They also prevent oxidative damage due to age-related deficits. Berries are sweet and tasty mid meal snack and can easily be included in a variety of food preparations.

7. Watermelon: With over 90% water, watermelon is an excellent anti-aging food and a delicious one too. Watermelon consists of vitamins, minerals and essential fats that are SWAT team against free radicals. The zinc in watermelon is particularly good for cleansing toxins from the body.

8. Whole Grain Cereals: Rich in fiber and Vitamin B, whole grain cereals have very good affect on your skin. Whole grain meals are good for digestion and help maintain radiant skin. If you want long life, increase intake of whole wheat, oatmeal and brown rice.

9. Olive Oil: Much recently, scientists have found that olive oils contain large amounts of mono-unsaturated fats that are good for your body and heart. Adding organic extra virgin olive oils is especially helpful as they are less refined and retain the original qualities of this anti-aging food.

10. Sprouted Beans: Beans are a great source of protein and anti-oxidants. Sprouted beans make them a wonder food that has numerous benefits for your body and skin. Rich in vitamins and minerals, sprouts contain significant amounts of easy to assimilate hormones, making them an effective aid to anti-aging.

As we age, our caloric needs drop so we need to pack our diet with low-calorie, nutrient-rich foods. Including these anti-aging foods into your diet can help live longer and prevent any heart diseases. “Eating anti-aging foods” can be your new mantra for a long and healthy life.