Did you know that an average person’s body has about 10,000 to 20,000 free radicals that attack cells daily? These are unstable atoms, of which some are beneficial, while others can cause disease. For instance, they can damage the skin, promoting faster aging.
Fortunately, nutritious anti-aging foods may help counter free radical damage. After all, they contain antioxidants and other nutrients necessary for optimal health.
So, what are the best types of food for a healthier, younger-looking you?
We’ve listed some of the top and most delicious options below, so read on.
Sweet Potatoes
An antioxidant called beta-carotene is behind the sweet potato’s orange color. Once digested, the body converts it to vitamin A.
Vitamin A, in turn, is the first vitamin approved by the FDA as an anti-wrinkle agent. According to studies, it has anti-aging effects and helps boost the skin’s appearance. It may also improve skin elasticity, trigger skin cell turnover, and soften the skin.
In addition to vitamin A, sweet potatoes also contain high levels of the C and E vitamins. Both may help protect the skin from free radicals that speed up the skin’s aging process.
And to top it off, sweet potatoes are rich in filling fiber that helps beat hunger and cravings. That makes it an excellent addition to a healthy diet and may be helpful for those with a binge eating disorder. To learn more about the latter, check out these facts about binge eating disorder and how to overcome it.
Red Bell Peppers
Red bell peppers boast high levels of vitamin C, which, like vitamin A, is also a potent antioxidant. A medium-sized one is more than enough to provide the Reference Daily Intake for this vitamin. Indeed, compared to citrus fruits, red bell peppers have twice as much vitamin C.
Vitamin C may benefit the skin by helping improve the appearance of wrinkles. It may also help diminish dark skin spots, often caused by sun exposure and advancing age.
Red bell peppers contain other antioxidants like vitamin A, capsaicinoids, and lycopene. These are all compounds that may help prevent or minimize free radical damage.
Watercress
Like sweet potatoes and bell peppers, watercress is rich in vitamins A and C, helping keep aging signs at bay. A small study of 11 women found that nearly all (10 of 11) reported positive skin improvements. Moreover, 80% experienced an improvement in their pores, 72% in texture, and 63% in wrinkles.
Plus, watercress is rich in vitamins B1, B2, and K and other nutrients like calcium and potassium. All that makes this leafy veggie an ideal addition to your diet for optimal health and wellbeing.
Papaya
Papaya boasts a variety of vitamins (i.e., A, B, C, K, and E) and minerals (i.e., calcium, potassium, magnesium). That makes it a powerhouse of nutrients that help fight free radical damage. Additionally, it contains papain, an enzyme that scientists say may help with inflammation.
Eat More of These Anti-Aging Foods
And there you have it, your guide on some of the best anti-aging foods you should start eating more of today. Not only can they help you improve your skin, but they can also help boost your overall health.
So, why not add more of such healthy ingredients to your meals starting today?
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