While aging is a natural process in life, various factors can induce premature aging. Moreover, though aging cannot be totally stopped, the rate can certainly be slowed down. One way to do this is to consume food items including certain vegetables, herbs and green tea, which have anti-aging properties. Generally, foods rich in antioxidants control the aging process by neutralizing the harmful effects of free radicals that cause wrinkles and other manifestations of old age.
Vegetables that Prevent Aging
Vegetables have antioxidant phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and fiber. Green, red and yellow vegetables are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, so one must try to incorporate vegetables of all colors into their diet regularly.
Carrots contain beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body, essential for healthy skin and eyes and for boosting the immune system. Since it is rich in fiber and water, the carrot boosts oxidation, cleans the liver and prevents wrinkles. Beta rich foods fight sun damage from the sun's ultra violet rays.
Beetroot gets its red color from a powerful antioxidant betacyanin, which purifies the blood, boosts the natural defenses of the liver, prevents cancer and regenerates the cells of the immune system. It also contains silica, which is required for healthy skin, hair, nails, ligaments, tendons and bones.
Broccoli is rich in antioxidants and the trace mineral chromium, while sweet potatoes fight sun damage. Lettuce is eaten in the raw form, and being rich in vitamins and minerals, performs many functions like purifying the blood. Cabbage, onions, garlic, spinach, green and red peppers, soyabeans and tomatoes are other antioxidant and anti-aging vegetables. Spinach and beans prevent wrinkles, since they contain compounds that prevent and repair tear of skin cells.
Other Foods that Prevent Aging
Polyphenols in green tea have a number of anti-aging properties, including maintaining the elasticity of the skin. The culinary herb sage gives energy, boosts digestion and arrests aging. Ginseng, another herb, stimulates the body’s cell rejuvenation process and aids healing. Sunflower seeds are a rich source of antioxidant vitamin E, which fights free radicals. Other food items that neutralize harmful free radicals are sprouts, olive oil, aloe vera, flaxseeds (containing omega-3 fats) and wheat grass juice. Finally, honey keeps symptoms of aging at bay.
Foods that help to maintain the acid-alkaline balance in the body are anti-aging. These include antioxidant rich vegetables like carrots, broccoli, tomatoes, beetroot and beans. Green tea, seeds, honey and some herbs are other food items that prevent aging and promote a healthy life. Incorporating these items in the diet is an easier and less expensive option to many anti-aging cosmetic products.
Sources:
Bakhru, H.K, Healing through natural foods, Jaico Publishing house, 2008.
Poddar, Tanushree, You are what you eat, Pustak Mahal, 2008.
Nita Mukherjee - I have 25+ years of experience in education and tutoring in English, and 12+ years in writing. With a post graduate degree (B.Ed) in ...
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