Superfoods for a Longer Life have been found to have anti-aging properties, such as sulforaphane, lycopene, beta-carotene, lutein, and omega 3 fatty acids. These foods have been linked to lower risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and macular degeneration, as well as increased self-sufficiency in elderly adults. Eating dark leafy greens even if you don't do anything else to change your diet can help reduce your risk of heart disease and may even save your sight. Omega 3 fatty acids have also been shown to keep your brain sharp. If fresh fish is unavailable, opt for canned tuna.
Recent research indicates that specific chemicals in foods, such as sulforaphane, a phytochemical found in broccoli, work with your genes to boost your body's natural defense systems, aiding in the inactivation of toxins and free radicals before they cause cancer, cardiovascular disease, and even premature aging.
And the hope for the future is to be able to tell someone early on what diseases or maladies they may be genetically predisposed to, so that their diets can be tailored accordingly. We'll know which ones to include and which to avoid, and we'll be able to take a proactive approach to preventing or deterring genetic diseases. In the meantime, many foods have been found to have anti-aging properties.
Lycopene, the pigment that gives tomatoes their red color, appears to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, and macular degeneration. It has also been linked to increased self-sufficiency in elderly adults. While fresh tomatoes contain a significant amount of lycopene, the most absorbable forms are found in cooked tomato products such as spaghetti sauce, soup, and prepared salsas. Lycopene is also found in pink grapefruit, guava, red bell peppers, and watermelon.
Consuming at least two cups of orange fruits such as sweet potatoes, squash, and carrots increases intake of beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A, which is necessary for healthy skin and eyes and may also reduce the risk of some cancers, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Lutein and lycopene, both found in orange fruits and vegetables, help reduce the risk of macular degeneration and may protect skin from sun damage, as well as reduce wrinkling. Mangoes and cantaloupes are also high in beta-carotene.
Eat your dark leafy greens even if you don't do anything else to change your diet. They have been shown to reduce your risk of heart disease and may even save your sight. Dietary guidelines recommend eating at least three cups of greens per week. Fresh is better than frozen or bagged.
Don't overlook the mental aging process. Omega 3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart, have also been shown to keep your brain sharp. A recent study discovered that eating more fatty fish significantly reduced mental decline. If fresh fish is unavailable, opt for canned tuna, salmon, and sardines.