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5 Anti-Aging Foods You Can Find in Any Grocery Store

5 Anti-Aging Foods You Can Find in Any Grocery Store

Protecting your body from aging and diseases requires antioxidants. These substances include vitamins A, E, and C, beta-carotene, lycopene, zinc, polyphenols, and many others. Antioxidants protect cells and their DNA from oxidative stress caused by free radicals.

In addition to antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids and compounds that slow down collagen glycation help maintain youthfulness. Glycation creates bonds between protein fibers, making collagen unable to retain its shape. This leads to a loss of skin elasticity and firmness, giving it a dull appearance. Blood vessels also become stiff and less effective at nourishing internal organs.

Luckily, you can find these beneficial substances in everyday foods.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in the plant pigment lycopene, which gives them their red color and serves as a powerful antioxidant.  Lycopene not only helps maintain youthful skin but also protects it from sunburn.

Additionally, lycopene reduces blood clots, lowers cholesterol levels, and strengthens blood vessels, providing protection against heart attacks.

Interestingly, lycopene is not destroyed during heat processing and is even better absorbed afterward.  That means homemade or store-bought tomato sauces and pasteurized juices are just as beneficial as fresh tomatoes.

Cocoa and Dark Chocolate

Cocoa and dark chocolate contain a special group of flavonoids known as flavonols. These compounds offer greater antioxidant activity than many other foods, including blueberries and acai berries.

Chocolate and cocoa also reduce inflammation, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, and may even help prevent certain types of cancer. On top of that, cocoa stimulates the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones. This explains why many people reach for chocolate during stressful times.

Almonds

Almonds are packed with antioxidant flavonoids that protect cells from damage, extend youthfulness, and even reduce harm caused by smoking.

The highest concentration of beneficial nutrients is found in the almond skin, so it’s best to eat almonds unpeeled.

Almonds are also rich in magnesium, which supports the immune system, aids nerve signal transmission, enhances heart function, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. As an added bonus, almonds can boost libido in men.

Lemons

The vitamin C in lemon juice is a powerful antioxidant that also strengthens the immune system.

Lemons can help with iron-deficiency anemia.  While the fruit itself contains little iron, its vitamin C and citric acid enhance iron absorption from other foods. Additionally, lemon peel can reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Avocado

Avocados are rich in vitamin C, which protects the skin from oxidative stress. They also contain monounsaturated fatty acids that strengthen the cardiovascular system and plenty of fiber to aid digestion.