While keeping your brain and body healthy should always be a priority, it may become especially important as you age. Over time, your risk of certain diseases (like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and more) increases, so nourishing your body with everything it needs to thrive is crucial, especially for those over 40. Luckily, there are plenty of foods you can work into your daily diet in order to do just that—including tons of tasty fruits.
To discover two of the best fruits you can eat regularly for a healthier brain and body over 40, we spoke to experts Clara Lawson, RDN and Alicia Galvin, RD. They told us that antioxidant-packed berries and citrus fruits like oranges are great options to add to the list. Learn more below!
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1. Berries
When you start your day with some berry-topped oatmeal or yogurt, or even eat these fruits by the handful as a snack, you're providing your body with a ton of nutrients, including powerful antioxidants.
Antioxidants are your secret weapon when it comes to the health of both your body and your brain. These powerful compounds protect your cells from free radical damage in order to lower your risk of a range of diseases, from heart disease to brain disease and even cancer. "Antioxidants are nutritional components that help scavenge free radicals,” Galvin explains. "Free radicals can cause DNA damage, age the skin, and promote inflammation—all of which become more important to manage as we age." Overall, adding more antioxidants to your diet can help promote heart health, brain function, and even weight loss and gut health. And as it turns out, berries are some of the best sources of antioxidants. Plus, they're delicious!
2. Oranges and other citruses
When it comes to keeping your brain and body healthy, another great option is incorporating more of one particular antioxidant into your diet: vitamin C. This vitamin is known to keep inflammation at bay, which can do wonders for your overall health and even help you lose weight. And it's no secret that citrus fruits, including oranges, are a great source.
"Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits and tangerines are some of the best fruits that reduce body inflammation and aid weight loss. These citrus fruits are full of soluble fiber and have a very low glycemic impact," Lawson says. In addition to the vitamin C content, these fruits are also packed with fiber, which promotes healthier digestion.
As far as the brain health benefits of oranges go, the flavonoids and antioxidants in this fruit have been shown to protect your noggin from age-related decline and improve brain function. So why not start your day with a nice, juicy orange? Your body and brain will thank you!
