Foods to Eat to Find the Fountain of Youth
By Debra Rodzinak
Foods that are nutrient-rich are not only beneficial to the body’s overall health, but they can also have positive side effects. Firming the skin, lowering blood pressure, and helping the mind to be sharper are only a few of the positive effects of choosing the right nutrients to include in your overall diet.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C can lower the risk for cancer. Experts believe that this vitamin helps protect the body against free radicals that can harm cells. Vitamin C also helps the production of collagen that keeps those fine lines from forming on the face. Foods to eat that contain Vitamin C include:
- Oranges
- Strawberries
- Pineapples
- Kiwi
- Cantaloupe
- Papaya
Potassium
Potassium helps to safeguard the heart. Everyone who suffers with high blood pressure is told to lower their sodium intake. However, this is not always easy due to hidden sodium in foods. Potassium helps to counter the sodium intake and encourages the kidneys to flush sodium out of the body. Foods to eat that contain potassium include:
- Bananas
- Honeydew melon (the green cantaloupe)
- Oranges
- Peaches
- Papayas
- Mangoes
Water and Fiber
Increased water and fiber can help stop weight gain. Both water and fiber keep a person feeling fuller for longer periods of time, which can help with cravings. Extra weight can increase the risk for diabetes, so keeping off weight as a person ages not only keeps them looking younger, but aids the body in decreasing the risk for chronic conditions like diabetes. Foods to eat that contain water and fiber include:
- Apples
- Bananas
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Oranges
- Strawberries
- Pears
Anthocyanins
Anthocyanins help muscles feel less tired and pain-free. When muscles are in better shape, a person is more likely to keep up their exercise routine without injury. Having a smoothie before or after a workout can lead to a longer life. Foods to eat that contain anthocyanins include:
- Cherries
- Pomegranates
- Blueberries
Polyphenols
Studies have found that increased brain and motor function are due, in part, to these organic chemicals. Polyphenols are thought to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. By reducing stress and inflammation, a person's cognitive abilities are increased. Foods to eat that contain polyphenols include:
- Apples
- Blueberries
- Plums
- Strawberries
- Raspberries
- Concord grapes
Not only are most of these foods good for you and help you look and feel younger, but they taste good, too.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.
