The fountain of youth may only exist in movies and fairy tales. But there are actually foods that can promise basically the same.

While youth has been hugely associated with smooth, glowing skin, it also indicates strong bones and muscles, good senses, optimal brain function and fast metabolism.

To help you know what to eat to cheat your way to aging, here are 10 foods most recommended and approved by dietitians.

 

 

1. Papaya

 

Let’s begin by defeating the visible signs of aging!

Papaya offers a wide range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that work together to delay skin damage and wrinkling. It is rich in the antioxidant lycopene that fights free radicals to help prevent skin discoloration, texture change and fine lines associated with aging

What’s more, papaya contains the enzyme papain which is used in many exfoliating products to shed dead skin cells, leaving you with a firmer, plumper and more radiant skin.

 

2. Blueberries

 

Our cognitive function declines with age. These include areas in remembering, planning, decision-making and more.

In a 20-year Harvard study, it has been shown that eating blueberries at least once a week may slow down cognitive aging by up to two-and-a-half years. The mechanism relies on compounds found in blueberries that help generate new nerve cells in your brain.

 

3. Broccoli

 

In essence, broccoli is a powerhouse of youth. It is a notable source of vitamin C, an antioxidant vital in the synthesis of collagen.

Collagen is a major component of connective tissues that make up several parts of our body. Increased production of collagen means improved skin elasticity, less brittle nails, healthier hair, and increased bone mineral density.

 

4. Nuts

 

Walnuts. Cashews. Almonds. No matter which nut you choose, they’re all perfect for anti-aging.

Nuts are a rich source of vitamin E which is integral in repairing skin tissues and preventing UV-induced free radical damage to skin. They also contain omega-3s, fats that are important for learning and memory and may help ward off Alzheimer’s disease.

 

5. Greek Yogurt

 

Greek yogurt is another winning food in fighting skin conditions like eczema and wrinkles. It has probiotics that help restore your skin’s natural barriers and promotes gut health.

As many of us may not realize, poor gut health is intricately linked with skin disorders. Thus, improving your gut bacteria is critical in maintaining a youthful, glowing skin.

 

6. Salmon

 

Consumption of fatty fish like salmon has been postulated to reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults.

Fatty fish contains docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), the most abundant omega-3 fatty acid in the retina of the eye which helps preserve vision and relieve dry eyes.

 

7. Fortified Soy Milk

 

Fortified soy milk gives you as much calcium as cow’s milk plus all its added nutrients. It’s great for bone health and is also rich in protein that helps maintain muscle mass that you begin to lose as you age.

Moreover, soy milk is a great source of vitamin b12 which plays a major role in preventing loss of neurons in the brain associated with dementia and memory loss.

 

8. Dark Chocolates

 

Dark chocolate is an infamous food proven to slow down and reverse signs of skin aging.

Flavonoids in dark chocolates can protect against sun damage, improve  blood flow to the skin and prevent your skin from developing dark spots, pigmentations and fine lines.

Further, it can also enhance your skin’s ability to retain mixture which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

 

 

 

Aging is an inevitable part of life. The key is eating healthy so you can age gracefully and wind up the clock a little to maintain your overall health and vitality. Make sure to include these anti-aging foods in your diet to help you feel and look your best with age.