The most effective foods to combat premature aging are those that are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin A, C and E, carotenoids, flavonoids and selenium. These are capable of neutralizing free radicals. These antioxidants can be found in fruits, vegetables and grains, which also contribute to reduction of risks of contacting other lifestyle diseases.
Aging is a natural process of the body that can be accelerated by stress, pollution, sun exposure and toxins. Therefore antioxidants, function to combat the free radicals, which are induced by such factors. In addition some substances that are present in industrialized foods can also accelerate aging, hence such foods should be avoided.
1. Citrus fruits, broccoli and tomatoes
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Citrus and pigmented fruits such as mango, orange, peach, acerola, papaya, melon and guava as well as vegetables like broccoli, tomato, chilli and cabbage are all rich in vitamin C, which also known as ascorbic acid. It is an important antioxidant, that is very abundant in the body, especially n the skin.
This vitamin is fundamental in synthesis of collagen, favouring microcirculation, decreasing skin reactions and it also contributes to protection of the skin from solar radiation.
2. Cereal grains and oils
Some cereal grains and other oils such as wheat germ, corn, soybeans and peanuts as well foods such as eggs, liver , meat, fish and dairy products are rich in vitamin E. It is a liposoluble vitamin that protects the cells from lipid peroxidation and further stabilizes membranes if other cellular structures.
In addition, just like vitamin C, vitamin E also contributes to protecting the skin from solar radiation.
3. Yellow, orange or red leaf vegetables
Green leafy vegetables and fruits with yellow, orange and red pigmentation such as tomato, pumpkin, peppers and oranges are rich in carotenoids, which also have antioxidant properties.
Carotenoids, especially lycopene, have the ability to inhibit the damage that is caused by free radicals.
4. Red fruits, wine and green tea
Red fruits, such as acerola, strawberry, blackberry and açaÃ, are rich in flavonoids, substances that contribute largely to prevention of premature aging.
Moreover, wine, black tea, green tea and soy are foods/beverages also have flavonoids, but some of them should be consumed in moderation.
5. Dried fruits, birds and sea fruits
Selenium, which is present in foods such as dried fruits, poultry, sea foods, garlic, tomato, corn, soybeans, lentils, fish and crustaceans, is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cell membranes, nucleic acids and proteins against degradation by free radicals.
In addition, several studies have proven that selenium prevents the occurrence of DNA damage that is caused by UV radiation.
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