Anti-Aging Foods

Published Aug 26, 2011

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A nutritious diet and regular exercise help you stay healthy, from a fit body and quick mind to glowing skin, shiny hair, and strong nails. But did you know that some foods can slow the signs of aging? Eating foods with more concentrated amounts of certain vitamins can help make your skin more radiant, reduce fine lines and wrinkles, fight off cancer, and keep you more active, which in turn leads to a healthier lifestyle! We spoke with Mom Energy author Kathy Kaehler, a Los Angeles-based food coach and celebrity fitness trainer who works with stars such as Julia Roberts, Jennifer Aniston, and Kim Kardashian, to find out which foods should be on every Beauty's plate.

1 Avocado

"Avocados are full of good fats, which help to improve your cholesterol level and provide moisture to dry skin," says Kathy. They are also a wonderful source of vitamin E, which maintains healthy skin and keeps it looking youthful.

2 Blueberries

Blueberries contain a high amount of water, which is great for your skin. They also help improve your memory and contain lots of antioxidants to fight against free radicals. "Because of their dark skin," says Kathy, "blueberries contain higher amounts of antioxidants than a lot of other foods."

3 Kale

"Kale is another super food," says Kathy. "Its high fiber content allows your body to flush out toxins, which can cause sallow-looking skin. Kale is also much more nutritious than other green vegetables."

4 Turmeric

Turmeric's superior antioxidant properties make the spice a great anti-inflammatory. Its antioxidant effects are also vital to the body’s detoxification system, so it can help keep your skin clear, firm, toned, and radiant. "Another benefit is its known ability to penetrate the plaque found in your brain that causes Alzheimer's disease," says Kathy.

5 Nuts

Nuts provide plenty of vitamins and minerals, and if you don't eat much fish, they are a great way to get your omega-3s. These essential fatty acids decrease the inflammation that can lead to puffy skin, arthritis, and a host of health problems. Kathy recommends Brazil nuts; they're high in magnesium, which is great for your overall health.