Tuesday Tip - anti aging

Best Anti Aging Foods

     by Colleen Moody

Age may just be a number, but it’s not one we like to give out willingly. Knock a few years off by tweaking your diet with these foods proven to be full of anti-aging properties. Plus, they'll help you reap the benefits of a smaller waist, too.

Avocados

Guacamole, anyone? According to Paula Simpson, BASc, RNCP, the oil found in avocados works to toughen your skin while also hydrating it. Another perk? "Avocados are full of monounsaturated fatty acids," says Robyn Flipse, MS, RD. "This is the healthiest type of fat for the cardiovascular system because it doesn't promote inflammation."

Berries

Stocked with antioxidants, these yummy snacks neutralize damaging free radicals, says Simpson. They also help the body manufacture collagen, leaving your skin firm and smooth.

Carrots and Tomatoes

The more colorful the better, says Flipse. These bright veggies are stocked with phytonutrients and antioxidants, both of which protect against damaging free radicals. The beta carotene and lycopene found in them also protect your skin from sun damage and repair skin cells, says Simpson.

 Tofu, Soymilk, & Edamame

These nibbles favored by vegetarians contain natural phytoestrogens that help keep skin resilient and may even actually slow down the aging process, Simpson says.

Dark Chocolate

Some say, "Too good to be true," but Flipse says, "Resveratorol and flavanols." These two compounds are the good stuff in dark chocolate that promote circulation and can even protect against moderate sun damage. Just make sure to choose dark chocolate over milk, as the dark chocolate is more beneficial to your health.

 Kiwi-fruit

Eating kiwifruit will not only help maintain clear skin, it will also promote healthy bones. Drayer says one cup peeled kiwifruit contains more vitamin C than the equivalent amount of oranges. Plus, it neutralizes free radicals that could lead to things like cancer and heart disease

WALNUTS

"Walnuts are one of the only nuts that contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids," says Drayer. "This has been shown to protect against high blood pressure and heart disease, and increase bone strength." Their anti-inflammatory perks also relieve skin diseases such as eczema and even asthma and rheumatoid arthritis.

You can learn about additional "Top Foods"

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