Have you
ever noticed how some individuals appear to be much younger than their actual
age? Perhaps their youthful appearance is directly related to a diet chock full of anti-aging minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.
There is a variety of different types of food that will delay the aging process.
There is a variety of different types of food that will delay the aging process.
Skin's Best Friend: Vitamin C
Aside from being a vitamin found in a glass of orange juice, Vitamin C is a
substance heavily responsible for collagen production. Collagen is the protein
found in skin that gives it a youthful smooth appearance. Vitamin C acts as a powerful antioxidant that destroys free radicals. Peppers of all varieties, green leafy vegetables, kiwi and other fruits are excellent sources of this powerhouse nutrient.
Vitamin C is even sold in cosmetic products for topical use due to its effectiveness.
The Beauty of Fat
Healthy omega fats can be found in foods such as nuts,seeds, avocados and fish.
From the inside out, consuming healthy fat can contribute to the suppleness of
skin by adding extra moisture. It can also contribute to healthy shiny, hair.
Omega 3 fats found in fish have substantial anti-inflammatory properties that
reduce cellular damage as well.Food that Accelerates Aging
Processed foods that contain high amounts of refined sugar and fat wreak havoc on the skin. Aside from causing inflammation, these foods are known to increase the Ph level in the body, causing it to become acidic from the inside out. Being overly acid internally can cause fatigue, various health problems and can reduce collagen and elastin in the skin. Toxins from food can also contribute to the dryness of hair and cause it to become brittle. It is best to consume whole foods that are not processed with additives and chemicals.
What supplements to consider
It is always best to get the majority of your vitamins and minerals directly
from food, as your body absorbs them better.There are thousands upon thousands of supplements that promise anti-aging properties and only a fraction of them work. Supplements that contain a substance known as MSM (also known as the beauty mineral) can effectively help the skin create new collagen cells and help the hair to grow. MSM taken with Vitamin C can greatly improve the appearance of the skin,
Horsetail is another supplement to consider, as it is a form if silica, which also enhances collagen production and promotes anti-aging.
The Big Idea
Eating a whole food diet filled with plant foods is the optimal way to slow down the aging process. Avoid processed "junk food" and alcohol. Keep a few supplements on hand, such as MSM and perhaps a few antioxidant supplements and you will be on your way to a more youthful appearance.
Eric R. Braverman is a physician based in New York.

