Most people tend to believe that the secret to looking younger lies in discovering the right cosmetic products, or even resorting to surgery. However, science has suggested that certain anti-ageing foods can help you to avoid wrinkles, make your complexion appear fresher and help you look younger than your age. Here’s a list of things you should be eating to battle the signs of ageing.
8 Anti-Ageing Foods to Keep You Looking Young
- Romaine Lettuce. We all know that green, leafy vegetables are great for general health. However, nutritionists often praise romaine lettuce above other salad vegetables; due to its ability to refresh and revitalise the skin. Just six leaves of Romaine lettuce contains over 100% of your daily recommended amount of vitamin A, which is vital when it comes to helping your skin cells replenish themselves. It also contains circulation-boosting oxygen and nutrient-rich potassium.
- Avocado contains largely monounsaturated fats, which are the ‘good’ fats that help protect against heart disease. However, in addition to having a wide variety of health benefits, avocado is also full of vitamin E and beta-carotene; both of which are great for nourishing the skin and protecting against the signs of aging.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil. The virtues of olive oil have long since been sung by nutrition experts. However, this oil is also particularly good for protecting the skin against pollutants and impurities, as it contains plenty of antioxidants. This is why many people also use olive oil to moisturise as well as cook with!
- Only a few years ago, scientists were warning people against eating too many eggs, due to their high levels of cholesterol. However, whilst it’s true that eggs contain around 185mg of cholesterol (the daily recommended allowance is 300mg), eggs actually help to balance cholesterol levels in the body. They also contain lutein and zeaxanthin; antioxidants that help prevent UV damage to the skin, reducing the likelihood of developing lines and age spots. In addition to this, eggs contain nutrients that hydrate and soften the skin.
- Red Grapes. Grape skins contain an anti-inflammatory called resveratrol, which actively helps the skin to stay supple and soft. This substance also offers protection against the sun’s harmful rays.
- Almonds are full of vitamin E, which is one of the most effective nutrients for promoting skin health. Many people avoid eating nuts, as they’re concerned about their high calorific value and fat content. However, a recent study involving 50,000 participants showed that women who ate them at least twice a week were less likely to put on weight than those who rarely ate them.
- Strawberries are packed full of vitamin C and ellagic acid, which helps the body to produce and protect collagen fibres. These fibres help to keep skin elastic and firm. Although research is not yet conclusive, links have also been made with regularly eating strawberries and reduced risk of developing cancer.
- Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These are not only excellent at boosting brain health, but also help to provide nourishment to the skin and prevent dryness.
The Rule of Eating to Stay Young
Essentially, if you want to eat to stay looking younger, in addition to trying to incorporate these anti-ageing foods into your diet, it’s a good idea to eat as many natural foods as possible and to avoid processed foods.
Fruit and vegetables are packed full of nutrients that help to keep your skin firmer, softer and less lined, as are other key food types, such as unsalted nuts, oily fish and certain oils.
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