10 Superfoods – For A Healthier, Younger You

By Maryam Rastkerdar

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Eating well not only does wonders for the waistline and strengthens the immune system but will also provide other health benefits: There is a direct correlation between our diet, our daily appearance and the aging process. A healthy diet comprising essential nutrients, minerals, antioxidants and fatty acids are building blocks for the protection our body needs to fight daily environmental stress. A balanced diet that is enhanced by the foods listed below not only promotes the anti-wrinkle process but also contributes to an overall healthier well being.

1) Coffee

Starting the day with a cup of coffee not only jumpstarts your energy, but it also protects the skin from developing melanoma through its bioactive compounds. According to a study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, researchers found that people drinking four cups of coffee daily were at lower risk of developing malignant melanoma than non-coffee drinkers.

2) Watermelon

This favorite summertime fruit is loaded with the antioxidant lycopene. Not only does lycopene give watermelon its red color, but it also protects the skin against ultraviolet (UV) damage. It is believed that watermelon has sun protection factor (SPF) properties, so consume it to boost your body’s daily dose of sunscreen.

3) Cantaloupe

This delicious melon is packed with an abundance of antioxidants including choline, zeaxanthin and beta-carotene, all of which protect against a range of diseases from the common cold to cataracts. Beta-carotene, when converted to vitamin A or retinol, is essential for healthy vision and healthy skin, as well as strengthening the mucous membrane and immune system.

4) Pomegranate

This super fruit is bursting with antioxidants such as vitamin C, anthocyanin and ellagic acid. By neutralizing free radicals in our body, vitamin C is believed to prevent dryness and wrinkles. Anthocyanin makes skin appear firmer by increasing the production of collagen, and ellagic acid is believed to reduce inflammation caused by environmental factors such as UV damage.

5) Blueberries

The properties of these super berries are endless. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants such as vitamins C and E that are key factors in strengthening the immunity, boosting the radiance of healthier skin and protecting our vision. Blueberries also supply arbutin, which is a hydroquinone derivative that prevents the formation of melanin, and thereby works as a skin-lightening agent.

6) Avocado

While most fruits have a high carbohydrate content, avocados are high in oleic acid, an omega-9 fatty acid that helps skin retain moisture and keeps it soft and plump. Additionally, avocados are extremely nutritious and contain a wide variety of minerals and vitamins: One single avocado is abundant in vitamins B5, B6, C, E, K, as well as folate and potassium. Studies have shown that consumption of avocado increases antioxidant absorption.

7) Kale

This leafy green has a long list of nutrients such as vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as iron, manganese, copper, potassium, and phosphorous. Vitamin K promotes blood clotting and its high iron content is essential in forming red blood cells. Insufficient iron levels can lead to anemia, which in turn causes fatigue, and impaired cognitive and immune function. Many powerful antioxidants are also found in kale such as quercetin and kaemferol, both of which have cardio-protective, blood pressure-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects.

8) Eggs

Eggs are incredibly nutritious and are an excellent source of protein. A single large egg contains vitamins A, B2, B5, B12 and minerals such as folate, phosphorous, selenium and choline, to name a few. Choline facilitates in building the cell membrane. Eggs are also high in antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthein, which are important for eye health and in preventing cataracts and macular degeneration.

9) Walnuts

Nuts are the perfect source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, plant sterols, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Walnuts, in particular, are extremely high in antioxidants, vitamin E, copper, manganese, molybdenum, and biotin…nutrients that boost overall health and contribute to lustrous hair and maintenance of one’s natural hair color (deficiency in copper has been linked to premature gray hair). Research has shown that walnuts are also beneficial for cardiovascular health, diabetes, weight-control, and brain health, in addition to their cancer-fighting properties. Eating just one ounce of walnuts per day is all it takes to take benefit from their nutritional properties.

10) Lobster

With its anti-inflammatory properties and high zinc content, this shellfish helps alleviate a range of skin irritations (including acne). Zinc stimulates the healing process and accelerates the renewal of skin cells, which is why zinc is a key ingredient in many acne products. Research has shown that people with acne have lower levels of zinc than those with clear skin.

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10 Superfoods – For A Healthier, Younger You.