I don’t know about you, but it’s my goal to stay young forever. Of course I don’t aspire to look like Megan Fox when I’m 72, there’s only so much you can do. Still, by living a healthy lifestyle you can significantly retard the aging process. Regular exercise, healthy sleeping habits, avoiding cigarettes and wearing sunscreen are only a couple of things you can do to ward off aging. But what about food? Let’s take a look at some so-called ’superfoods’ and beverages that are known to reduce the signs of aging.

Carrots

Many people know that carrots contribute to good bowel function, eyesight and healthy skin. Did you know however that they help lower blood cholesterol and fight cardiovascular disease? Filled with vitamins A and C, beta-carotene  and dietary fiber, this is a true power food.

Almonds

Rich in monounsaturated fat, almonds are heart-friendly and lower bad cholesterol. But that’s not all. Almonds are high in protein, dietary fiber, calcium, magnesium and vitamin E. The latter is supposed to neutralize free radicals and keep older people agile. If you don’t like whole almonds too much, make sure to give almond flour a try. There are some excellent baking recipes around for pancakes, cookies and muffins.

Olive Oil

Mediterranean people generally live longer and it comes as no surprise this has a lot to do with their diet, in which olive oil plays a major part. The monounsaturated fats and polyphenol antioxidants in olive oil are largely responsible for the low incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disease in Mediterranean countries. They cause a decrease in bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate and more specifically the cocoa it contains, is an abundant source of flavonoids. These antioxidants lower blood pressure because they keep blood vessels supple and youthful. Other health benefits include prevention of diabetes type 2, dementia and kidney disease. Best of all? It’s delicious!

Legumes

Beans, lentils and soy are excellent low-calorie sources of protein and fiber. Furthermore, scientific studies have shown that beans may protect against heart disease and breast cancer. They also play a role in regulating female hormone levels, which may alleviate menopause symptoms. For those of you who think legumes are boring to cook with, make sure to explore Indian cooking as Indian recipes feature a lot of lentils and beans.

Red Wine

No diabetes, age-related memory loss or heart disease for you? Then start drinking red wine (in moderation of course). One glass of alcohol a day certainly has health benefits, no matter what beverage you consume. What makes red wine special is that it contains resveratrol, found in the skins and seeds of grapes. This antioxidant is said to slow cellular aging and protect the heart.

Ginger

Regardless of how you eat ginger – fresh, dried or ground – it offers some outstanding health benefits. Did you know it can boost your digestive system and stimulate circulation? It is also a natural blood thinner and has anti-inflammatory effects. In this capacity, ginger is known to alleviate arthritis and rheumatic aches. Oh yeah, Be sure to try some ginger tea next time you have a sore throat or feel nauseous. Great success!

Curry Powder

India has about a quarter the U.S. rate for Alzheimer’s and curry has something to do with it. Tumeric, a spice found in many curries , is packed with the antioxidant curcumin. Research has shown that curcumin prevents brain cell damage from free radicals, thus preserving memory with age.

Avocado

Good for your cholesterol levels, heart and vessels. Just like almonds, avocados are a great source of vitamin E, the anti-aging secret for your skin. The folic acid and antioxidants prevent mental deterioration with aging and keep cancer at a distance.

Broccoli

Impressive superfood! Beta-carotene, calcium, chromium, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid and antioxidants; broccoli has it all. Broccoli helps to control blood-sugar levels and is a wonderful food for heart disease and cancer prevention. A definite winner!

On a final note, never exaggerate your intake of these superfoods. Always incorporate them in a balanced diet and add seasoning or sauces for taste. If you want to be in it for the long run, you better like what you eat.

Be sure to read part 2.

Alison