5 Vegan Foods To Prevent Premature Aging
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It’s a given that no matter how beautiful you are on the inside, you always hope and wish to look attractive without the biological clock straining your natural features. In the recent times, thanks to the growing amount of pollution along with our erratic and stressful lifestyles, age seems to catch up with us faster than it should. The modern way of life impacts our physical health making us more susceptible to age-related illnesses like cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, and cancer. It also makes our skin and hair age prematurely. While you may try a whole lot of topical and clinical beauty solutions to stay young, only a diet rich in nutritive foods will help you address the root of the issue without causing any side effects. Here are five vegan foods that can help prevent premature aging:
- Berries –The wonders of berries go far beyond their palatableness! Berries, especially strawberries, and blueberries are touted to be one of the best foods to prevent premature aging, for more reasons than one. Research conducted by Hallym University in the Republic of Korea found that berries contain an antioxidant called ellagic acid that prevents inflammation and destruction of collagen by the harmful UV-B rays of the sun, when applied topically. Inflammation and collagen damage can result in premature wrinkling of the skin. Another study conducted by researchers from the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University and University of Maryland Baltimore County found the anti-aging benefits of berries. The study concluded that the polyphenolics in berries prevent the accumulation of toxic protein in the brain that can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s – common age-related neurodegenerative disorders.
- Cabbage – The next time you are preparing a salad for yourself, make sure not to miss out on the benefits of this unassuming vegetable! Cabbages are rich in vitamin C, a nutrient that is essential for the formation of the skin’s structural protein, collagen. Collagen helps make the skin firmer and reduces signs of early wrinkling. In addition, red cabbages contain antioxidants called anthocyanins that have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and blood pressure. Anthocyanins also have anti-carcinogenic properties that help kill already formed cancer cells, along with preventing the growth of new tumors.
- Tomatoes –Here are reasons why that extra ketchup in your sandwich and the extra tomato toppings on your pizza will do you good! Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a carotenoid pigment that provides protection against many age-related health problems like cardiovascular diseases, macular degeneration, and cancer. Studies suggest that lycopene in tomatoes also shields the skin from wrinkles and sunburn caused due to the harmful UV rays of the sun.
- Nuts – If you aren’t already going nuts over nuts, here are some facts that will make you! A study conducted by The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that those who eat a handful of mixed nuts every day lower their risk of death from heart diseases, cancer, and other age-related health conditions. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios are rich in heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats that lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels and blood pressure, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that in addition to improving skin and hair health also helps fight age-related cognitive decline. Brazil nuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, and almonds are also good sources of selenium, a mineral that improves skin texture and elasticity by boosting the production of antioxidant enzymes called prostaglandins. Research suggests that selenium also lowers the risk of heart diseases and cancer, owing to its high anti-oxidant properties.
- Green Tea – Ever wondered the secret behind the long lives of the Chinese? Green tea may have a big role to play! A study published in the journal of Free Radical Biology and Medicine reported that the antioxidant activity of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) increases the production of stress-reducing proteins and contributes to longevity. The anti-inflammatory properties of green tea help protect the skin from UV exposure and early signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. The catechins present in green tea have anti-carcinogenic properties that fight cancer caused due to excessive sun exposure. Green tea also helps in weight management, thereby reducing the risk obesity-related problems like cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and blood pressure that can hamper longevity. You can also use green tea as a natural alternative to chemical hair dyes, thanks to its staining benefits.
Ensure these age-fighting foods find a fixed place in your kitchen so as to slow down the pace of your life clock. In addition, don’t forget to catch up on the necessary zzz’s every day. Get at least 8 hours of sleep daily. Make sure to workout for an hour at least five times a week. Follow these tips for a life that’s stress-free and happy!
