Foods that fight ageing

Who doesn’t wish they could look healthy and as young as they can long into their lives?

There are many foods that are not only good for us overall, but that help to turn the clock back so to speak, on ageing. And, they’re usually easily accessible.

Here in Barbados, most green leafy vegetables are not very pricey and it’s a good thing too. You see, foods like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cucumber, carrots and spinach, are not only chock full of Vitamins C, E and beta-carotene, but they contain ‘wrinkle-fighting antioxidants’ as well.

They have a major role in removing harmful free radicals from our systems and in skin renewal.

Additionally, because of their immunity-boosting properties, they also protect against heart disease, arthritis and cancer.

Fish is great for the body, especially those like trout, sardine, mackerel and salmon, which are rich sources of omega-3 fatty oils. These oils play a critical role in the improvement of skin elasticity, which in turn reduces the presence of wrinkles. Additionally, individuals should try to get as much fish or other foods like nuts into their diets, as omega-3 fat is not produced naturally in our bodies.

Whenever you use oil for cooking, try to use oils like olive, sesame or coconut, instead of regular vegetable oil options. They might be a little pricier, but in the end are worth it, as they are carriers of fat-soluble vitamins A, C and E. These vitamins promote flawless skin and while they’re at it, your fried, sautéed or any other style of cooking that requires you to use oil, become much healthier.

Whole grains are rich in vitamins, minerals, proteins, fibres and to top it all off, contain antioxidants as well. Choose to use grains like brown rice, millet, barley and oats, which aren’t expensive at all and contribute to lower blood cholesterol levels, which in turn help to preventing heart disease. What’s any of this have to do with healthier, younger looking skin? Remember, at the end of the day, a healthy body on the inside, will extend to the outside.

We mentioned nuts earlier, though not in detail. They’re so many to choose from – almonds, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, etc, and all are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and Vitamin A, which as we’ve mentioned before, are necessary for healthier skin.

By forming a fluid, rich membrane in the skin which is flexible and moist, these nutrients protect it, which keeps the skin supple and prevents premature ageing, wrinkles and blemishes.

Did you know that lycopene in vegetables is twice as powerful as beta carotene? When incorporated into the diet, they fight free radicals, increase immunity and keep the blood clean.

You can use foods like ginger, tomato and sweet potato to achieve the benefits of the many antioxidants, vitamins, minerals for skin regeneration, sulphur compounds and others.

Much pricier locally than some of your other options, but worth every penny, are foods like raspberries, blueberries, avocados, kiwi, apricots and the list goes on. They are also great sources of vitamins, minerals, fibres and antioxidants. The last contributes to clean blood and increases the body’s nutrient absorption, which of course means not only a healthier working system, but clearer, younger-looking skin.

It’s way too easy to achieve the results you want for healthier, ageless looking skin, not to change your diet to accommodate all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants available in this vast variety of foods. (JJ)