Superfoods for healthy ageing

shutterstock_208005721

Our generation is living decades longer than our predecessors. How would you like to spend those extra decades feeling?

I have to admit, I don’t like the concept of anti ageing. I don’t think it portrays a healthy perspective on an inevitable life process. I do believe in ageing well, preventing disease and not only eating to live longer but having a high quality of life, no matter how old you are. Superfoods should be a part of everyone’s diet. They contain concentrated levels of nutrients and are unprocessed, a perfect way to make sure you are consuming enough nutrients to keep your body and mind at its best.

Here are some simple tips on how to feel young at any age, protect yourself from the effects of aging and ok, maybe keep those wrinkles at bay just a little longer…

Diet

Nourish your body, don’t just feed it. Your diet should consist of whole foods, and as little processed foods as possible. Superfoods allow you to pack extra nutrients into your diet for healthy ageing.

Strong immunity with antioxidant-rich acai

Acai is a type of berry, particularly high in antioxidants, with 22 times more antioxidants than blueberries. Antioxidants help to keep your immune system strong and prevent cellular damage.

Acai is also low GI which is good for preventing sugar cravings. Snaking on sweets causes collagen to break down contributing to those wrinkles we are so keen to keep at bay. Low GI foods have are better for balancing blood sugar levels and are also important for weight management and maintaining energy levels.

You can take acai as a supplement or use acai + berry powder in your cereal, juices, smoothies or baking. An easy way to boost your daily antioxidant intake.

Protect your skin with Camu Camu 

Camu is a fruit from South America that contains the highest amount of Vitamin C than any other food source – it contains 23 times more vitamin C than an orange! Vitamin C is essential for collagen and elastin production for healthy skin and wound repair. It also helps to protect the skin from sun damage – a contributing factor to aging skin. Vitamin C protects against free radicals (damaged cells), its anti inflammatory and promotes healthy immune system. 

Camu has a mild citrus flavour and can be added to juices, smoothies, yoghurt, baking and desserts. 

Chia for Healthy digestion  

These tiny little seeds from south America are full of fibre, a great source of protein and omega 3’s. Fiber improves digestion,  helps the body eliminate waste and toxins from your body. 

Chia is a great source of anti inflammatory omega 3s that are beneficial for joint, brain and heart health.  

Chia can be added to your baking, salads, stir fries, breakfast cereals or smoothies,  pretty much any meal due to their mild taste.  

Boost your mood and memory power with Cacao – 

Cacao is the source of all chocolate products – with out the sugar and fat. Its latin name theobroma means food of the Gods. Cacao is full of nutrients and has been used for centuries its health benefits.Two cups a day has been shown to help with memory decline by improving blood flow to certain parts of the brain improving memory. Cacao contains mood boosting nutrients and is a good source of magnesium, iron for energy, heart and muscle health. Cacao is also super high in Antioxidants to protect us from age related health condition and illnesses 

 Cacao powder can be used in hot chocolates, smoothies, in baking and on your breakfast cereal. 

Lifestyle 

Exercise – is important on so many levels. Helps with weight management (decreasing risk for obesity, heart disease and diabetes), flexibility, and exercise helps to boost your mood and energy levels. 

Don’t smoke – its never too late to quit. The risk of premature death decreases by 50% if you quit smoking between 60 and 75 years of age. 

Stress less – stress can lead to damaged cells and premature aging. Find ways to reduce or manage the stress in your life – yoga, meditation or find a relaxing hobby you enjoy. 

 

For more information visit

http://www.bioglan.com.au/superfoods-2/