Top 7 Anti-Aging Foods To Support Your 40s-And-Beyond Body

• 1. Watercress

The health benefits of watercress don’t disappoint! This nutrient-dense hydrating leafy green is a great source of:

• calcium
• potassium
• manganese
• phosphorus
• vitamins A, C, K, B-1, and B-2

Watercress acts as an internal skin antiseptic and increases the circulation and delivery of minerals to all cells of the body, resulting in enhanced oxygenation of the skin. Packed with vitamins A and C, the antioxidants in watercress may neutralize harmful free radicals, helping to keep fine lines and wrinkles away.

To try: Add a handful of this flavorful green to your salad today for glowing skin and overall improved health!

• 2. Red bell pepper

Red bell peppers are loaded with antioxidants which reign supreme when it comes to anti-aging. In addition to their high content of vitamin C — which is good for collagen production — red bell peppers contain powerful antioxidants called carotenoids.

Carotenoids are plant pigments responsible for the bright red, yellow, and orange colors you see in many fruits and vegetables. They have a variety of anti-inflammatory properties and may help protect skin from sun damage, pollution, and environmental toxins.

To try: Slice bell peppers and dip them in hummus as a snack, add them into a raw salad, or cook them up in a stir-fry.

• 3. Papaya

This delicious superfood is rich in a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may help to improve skin elasticity and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. These include:

• vitamins A, C, K, and E
• calcium
• potassium
• magnesium
• phosphorus
• B vitamins

The wide range of antioxidants in papaya helps to fight free radical damage and may delay signs of aging. Papaya also contains an enzyme called papain, which provides additional anti-aging benefits by working as one of nature’s best anti-inflammatory agents. It’s also found in many exfoliating products.

So yes, eating papaya (or using products containing papain) may help your body shed dead skin cells, leaving you with glowing, vibrant skin!

To try: Drizzle fresh lime juice over a big plate of papaya as part of your breakfast or make a papaya mask at home for your next night in!

• 4. Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as an age-defying antioxidant called anthocyanin. This is what gives blueberries their deep, beautiful blue color.

These powerful antioxidants may help protect skin from damage due to the sun, stress, and pollution by moderating the inflammatory response and preventing collagen loss.

To try: Throw this delicious, low-sugar fruit into a morning smoothie or fruit bowl, and let it provide a beautifying punch!

• 5. Broccoli

Broccoli is an anti-inflammatory, anti-aging powerhouse packed with:

• vitamins C and K
• a variety of antioxidants
• fiber
• folate
• lutein
• calcium

Your body needs vitamin C for the production of collagen, the main protein in skin that gives it strength and elasticity.

To try: You can eat broccoli raw for a quick snack, but if you have the time, gently steam before eating. From charred bites to pesto sauces, cooking broccoli actually helps release more health benefits for your body.

• 6. Spinach

Spinach is super hydrating and packed with antioxidants that help to oxygenate and replenish the entire body. It’s also rich in:

• vitamins A, C, E, and K
• magnesium
• plant-based heme iron
• lutein

This versatile leafy green’s high vitamin C content enhances collagen production to keep skin firm and smooth. But that’s not all. The vitamin A it provides may promote strong, shiny hair, while vitamin K has been shown to help reduce inflammation in cells.

To try: Add handfuls of spinach to a smoothie, salad, or sauté.

• 7. Nuts

Many nuts (especially almonds) are a great source of vitamin E, which may help repair skin tissue, retain skin moisture, and protect skin from damaging UV rays. Walnuts even contain anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids that may help:

• strengthen skin cell membranes
• protect against sun damage
• give skin a beautiful glow by preserving its natural oil barrier

To try: Sprinkle a mix of nuts on top of your salads, or eat a handful as a snack. Don’t remove the skin, either, as studies show that 50 percent or more of the antioxidants are lost without the skin.

Original article: https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/anti-aging-foods