First of all, what are some foods that may speed up the aging process? Unfortunately, some of the foods that make you age faster are extremely prevalent in the American diet. “Anything that causes inflammation increases the aging process, especially things like pollution, tobacco, toxic household products, and allergens. This also includes inflammatory foods like sugars, flours, dairies, processed foods, non-organic fruits, and vegetables which have been sprayed with pesticides.” Dr. Friedman says. But how exactly does inflammation cause premature aging? “Inflammation actually twists the collagen strands in our skin causing wrinkles.” Beyond avoiding inflammatory foods, getting enough sleep, exercising, and reducing stress are also helpful additions.
With this in mind, what foods should you add instead? Dr. Ordon weighed in. “One thing I'd recommend that we talk about on the show is natural fruit, especially berries. They’re great antioxidants, a great source of minerals and vitamins, and anti-inflammatory.” He says. “You also want to make sure that your protein levels are good because if you start breaking down proteins in the body that will cause you to age quicker.”
“Organic vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables, are full of antioxidants and phenols which help to restore detoxification of the liver and lymphatic system,” Dr. Friedman adds, “Greens remove harmful chemicals and toxins from our body that we encounter daily, they also nourish our cells. Also good options are foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, like cold north Atlantic fish, walnuts, chia seeds, flax seeds, and hemp seeds. They all help lymphatic drainage which is key to removing inflammation. Hemp seeds are also rich in chlorophyll, nature's best cleanser, so be sure to include a bit in your daily diet.”
While variety is key, foods that are sure to promote vitality are things like fruit, protein, leafy greens, and Omega 3 fatty acids. Also important to note is the quality of the food you’re eating. Being sure to avoid foods with preservatives, antioxidants, and refined sugar is one way to slow down the aging process. Along with removing processed foods, replacing them with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and protein is an important component of a healthy diet.
Aging can be scary, intimidating, and have a negative impact on your self confidence. However, it’s important to focus on not so much how you look but what you feel. Eating foods that give you lasting energy and make you feel your best is key. When you feel better, that will reflect on the outside.