6 Foods that Help You Live Longer
The story goes that explorer Ponce de Leon went to Florida in search of a fountain of youth, a mythical spring that allegedly would restore the youth of anyone who drank from it. But since dear old Ponce is no longer with us, it's safe to assume he never found it.
Even so, 500 years later, people are still looking for ways to look younger and live longer. There's no magic potion here, but there are some foods that have anti-aging properties, and scientific data suggests that they can help you live longer. Interested? Of course you are!
Here Are 6 Foods That Help You Live Longer:
Leafy Greens
Mom made you eat them when you were a kid, and mother knows best, right? The fact is, eating dark leafy greens like broccoli, chard, collards, kale, lettuce, and spinach on a regular basis reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and heart attacks and may slow age-related cognitive decline.
As you probably suspect, keeping your brain active and healthy is vital to staying young! Additionally, leafy greens are full of fiber and studies show that only 7% of Americans reach their daily recommended fiber intake. Now, who wants a salad?!
Fruits
No surprise here, but fruits are loaded with good, healthy vitamins and minerals that have immune-supportive, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. Berries are especially beneficial, as they're low in sugar, high in fiber, and loaded with nutrients. They're also linked to slower cognitive decline and may even improve your memory. Blueberries are specifically linked to improving short and long-term memory in addition to spatial memory.
Olive Oil
You've probably heard about the health benefits of a Mediterranean diet. Well, olive oil is a main ingredient in most Mediterranean cuisines, and it’s good for you for so many different reasons. Olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats as well as polyphenols, which are antioxidants that may help protect against several age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Not to get too technical, but olive oil may also slow telomere shortening. Telomeres are part of DNA, and shorter telomeres are considered one of the main factors of aging.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, anchovies, and herring contain omega-3 fats, lean protein, B-vitamins, selenium, and iron; all of these nutrients and minerals these have been linked to fewer cardiovascular diseases, auto-immune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, macular degeneration, and better brain health. They can also lower the risk of depression and improve cognition and memory.
Nuts
Nuts are packed with nutrients that are good for the immune system and metabolism. They also promote good gut, brain, and heart health. Moreover, data suggests that they can also reduce the risk of cancer and Type-2 Diabetes. Nuts are packed with fiber, protein, healthy fats, and important vitamins and minerals like calcium, selenium, omega-3s, and vitamin E. Walnuts seem to be particularly effective in disease prevention and healthy aging.
Legumes
The “Blue Zones” — the places on earth where people live the longest — seem to have one thing in common; the people there eat a lot of legumes, such as peas, beans, and lentils. It’s no wonder since legumes are low in fat and high in folate, iron, magnesium, potassium, and protein. Data shows that they reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
If we find the Fountain of Youth, we'll be sure to let you know. In the meantime, there are plenty of healthy foods that can help you live longer and feel your best for many years to come!
