Frankly, we cannot stop ageing as it is a natural process. However, for those of you who need help keeping your bodies younger, fitter and healthier than they are, the best and most basic way to get started is to watch what you put into your mouth. To slow down, and in some cases even reverse ageing, you need a eat of minerals, vitamins, enzymes, antioxidants and phytonutrients that your body will soak up in an instant. These are mostly found in fresh, unprocessed, mainly plant-based foods that are vibrant and work in synergy with your body so what goes through your gut and the digestive system shows on your face and in your health. These are the things one should eat:
Watermelon: This local, easily accessible and affordable fruit is a treat while keeping your skin young at the same time. It has sunblocking properties, and when consumed once a day fights off the effects of UV rays. It also has a fair amount of water content, so all the hydration makes sure those dry and dehydrated lines don’t form.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes are one of the richest sources of lycopene there can be. Cooked tomatoes contain way more than the raw ones though, so it’s advisable to steam or sauté them before you dig in, to make it easier to absorb. Lycopene protects the skin from damage caused by stress pollution or free radicals.
Red wine: We’ve got good news for you, and a totally legit reason for you to have a glass of red wine two or three times a week. But it goes without saying that you needn’t overdo it! Wine totally counts as food, right? Red wine contains antioxidants and is rich in resveratrol, which can slow down ageing considerably.
Pomegranates: Now these are yummy, and the perfect way to start your day! Debra Jaliman, an assistant professor of dermatology at Mt Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, says that the juice in pomegranate seeds contains both ellagic acid and punicalagin; the first - a polyphenol compound that fights damage from free radical and the second, a super nutrient that may increase your body's capacity to preserve collagen. In other words, pomegranate is your ticket to firmer, plumper, softer skin. For maximum benefit though, try to eat the seeds in entirety and not just the juice.
Other red foods to include in your diet: Red bell peppers, raspberries, apples, red chillies (really!) and cranberries.
Sesame seeds: Contrary to popular belief, not everything white is bad! Once you’ve looked past the rice, flour, and sugar, there’s a host of white foods for good health. Let’s start with sesame seeds, which serve up high levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, and fibre – all essential to overall wellness and anti-ageing.
Yogurt: Probiotics are the best anti-ageing foods there are, because of the good bacteria that works its way through gut health, reflecting on the skin and the rest of the body. It also helps turn over skin cells and is a convenient snack by itself, and can also be combined with meals.
Plant-based milk: Hemp, almond, and other nut milk are not just a great alternate source of calcium, they are also vitamin D-rich, ensuring that you’re not lacking in this particular nutrient.
Other white foods to include in your diet: Garlic, radish, and coconuts.
