The Five Most Powerful Anti-Aging Fruits and Vegetables

Your diet can help to keep you young

Fruits and vegetables are chock-full of essential vitamins and nutrients that keep you healthy from the inside out. From fighting off disease to boosting cognitive functioning, plant-derived foods provide a wealth of irreplaceable benefits, including anti-aging properties. These top five fruits and vegetables can help you defy the aging process and maintain a clear, bright complexion without spending an arm and a leg on expensive anti-aging creams.

Garlic

Garlic is rich in a strong, but often overlooked antioxidant called allicin that is responsible for its strong smell and flavor. Once digested, allicin produces sulfenic acid—the fastest acting compound that counteracts harmful free radicals. Garlic helps guard against cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and premature aging.

Papaya

Papaya is a superfood that doesn’t receive as much recognition as it deserves. This nutrient-packed fruit contains a cocktail of vitamins that have been proven to reduce signs of aging, such as wrinkles, dark spots and enlarged pores. It is rich in vitamins A, C and E and also contains alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), which are a main ingredient in many pricey anti-aging skincare products. Besides eating papaya, you can also gain its immense skincare benefits by applying the peel to your face, neck or anywhere else on your body that you’d like to brighten and tighten.

Berries

Virtually all berries are packed with powerful antioxidants that promote healthy cells and protect your body from disease. Berries are also rich in vitamin C, a prominent ingredient in anti-aging skincare. Vitamin C is most effective for improving skin elasticity, brightening dull skin and evening out skin tone. Dark berries, such as blueberries and raspberries, tend to have a higher concentration of antioxidants and as a result, more anti-aging benefits.

Avocados

Avocados are a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine. This highly versatile fruit should become a staple in your diet because it is rich in monounsaturated fat, also known as healthy fat. Monounsaturated fat can contribute to softer skin and improve elasticity. It also ensures that your skin stays hydrated and can assist with the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals.

Cruciferous Greens

Cruciferous vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, broccoli and kale contain cancer-fighting nutrients, but their benefits don’t stop there. They are also loaded with skin-loving vitamins A and C and contain high amounts of folate. Vitamin C can promote brighter, clearer and more youthful-looking skin, while vitamin A and folate protect your skin from sun damage.

 Instead of wasting money on anti-aging creams and serums, turn back the clock by boosting your diet. These five fruits and vegetables will not only rejuvenate your complexion, but also promote overall wellness.