Diet for Healthy Aging

No person in this world can avoid the lure of staying young for a lifetime. Several people believe that anti-aging is a myth and consider aging as a natural process which cannot be avoided. However, some people go in search of the “anti-aging” gift and subject themselves to different therapies and various other programs that promise anti-aging. As a result, the term anti- aging has become a marketing tool as anything that comes with such a label it sells rapidly. Even though it is a fact that you cannot look like a 25-year-old when you are 60 years old it is possible that the aging process can be slowed down and its effects can minimize. This may be termed as healthy aging.

What is the importance of diet in healthy aging?

Diet is an essential factor in achieving healthy aging. A planned diet can go a great distance in helping you to age healthily. This requires consumption of lots of fruits and vegetables. You should consume items that are rich in antioxidants. Also, your diet should include substances that can potentially slow down the aging process.

What food items can help you age healthily?

Here are few food items that should be part of any anti-aging diet. Each item mentioned here has several benefits of its own.

Whole grains

Whole grains can aid anti-aging. They contain soluble fibers for lowering the level of blood cholesterol. They also have valuable phytonutrient content comparable to any vegetable or fruit. You have to consume at least 3 servings of whole grains daily.

Fish

Fish is a very healthy food and has several healthy components that are essential for human health. The omega 3 fatty acid content in fish is very vital for good health. Thus you should consume at least twice a week.

Fruits and vegetables

Antioxidants are essential for healthy aging and there is no better source of this valuable component than fruits and vegetables. They contain ample amounts of antioxidants and you can reap the benefits by consuming at least 5 servings daily.

Yogurt

Yogurt offers you probiotics, which helps in adding healthy bacteria to intestines. Moreover, it also offers you almost all benefits that you get from dairy products.

Nuts

Nuts are among the biggest sources of B vitamins. These vitamins are essential for keeping your brain and your heart in good condition. They also contain healthy fats that are essential for keeping your skin in good condition. However high quantities are not recommended as nuts are high in calories.

Legumes

Legumes are healthy food items. They are a package of ample nutrients coupled with low calories. You should include legumes in your diet at least three to four times a week.

Water

Drinking a lot of water has several benefits. You have to take in at least 4 glasses of water every day.