Top Five Anti-Aging Foods

Growing old is a fear for most of us and unavoidable for all. We do not have the ability to stop the aging process, and our skin and bodies reflect the years as they pass. If you wish to retain the essence of youth, you are not alone. Read on for the top five foods proven to have anti-aging qualities.

1. Salmon 

If you are looking for a great way to stay young and healthy while taking in the protein your body needs, try salmon. According to Dermatologist and world renowned healthy aging expert Dr. Perricone, "Wild Salmon contains essential fatty acids and powerful antioxidants such as the carotenoid, astaxanthin, that have important anti-inflammatory properties." He explains that inflammations actually seem to increase the signs of aging, and can lead to the common diseases that come with age. So if you eat to beat inflammation, you could help slow the aging process.

2. Blueberries 

A major contributor to aging is the body's production of free radicals. To clean the body and reduce production of these harmful molecules, it is important to add antioxidants to your diet. The very thing that makes blueberries blue is one key to doing just that. According to Anti Wrinkle Review, "Anthocyanin has been proven to exhibit powerful antioxidant properties that prevent damage from oxidative stress and free radicals."

In addition, studies have reported skin texture and elasticity improvement in women whom took a supplement containing blueberry extract. Other benefits include anti-inflammatory properties, high levels of Vitamin C, and high content of dietary fiber. Not to mention, blueberries taste great. Add a handful to your morning cereal or oatmeal and reap the benefits.

3. Walnuts 

A single serving of walnuts provide nearly 100% of the daily amount of Omega-3, an essential fatty acid, the body needs. Omega-3 fatty acids help decrease inflammation in the skin and can also ward of acne. Plus, walnuts may reduce cholesterol, lowering the risk of heart disease. These tasty nuts are great as a small snack between meals or as an addition to a salad. Adding about a handful of nuts to your diet each day may help you slow the aging process.

4. Prunes 

Once considered a food for the elderly, we now know the consumption of prunes is important for the young as well. They aid in defending against free radicals, which keeps the body and skin healthy and fights the signs of aging. The Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) scale, once used by the USDA to rate the amount of antioxidants foods contain, placed prunes at the top of the list with just one-half cup containing 5,770 ORAC units, while the daily recommendation is just 3,000 units.

Additionally, prunes reduce bad cholesterol, promote bone growth, promote healthy digestion, and help protect the heart and brain from the effects of aging. Stay young and healthy with a daily dose of prunes.

5. Olive Oil 

From the great civilization of Ancient Greece to the kitchen of top chefs, olive oil has long been a major component of healthy living. Today, many moisturizers and skin care products use olive oil to keep the skin smooth and young looking. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a statement touting the coronary benefits of olive oil in 2004 stating in part, "eating about 2 tbsp. (23 g) of olive oil daily may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease due to the monounsaturated fat in olive oil." It helps reduce the risk of certain ulcers, gastric cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. This gift from the Gods is one you will want to add in moderation to replace the saturated fats in your diet.

In an appearance obsessed world, staying healthy and slowing the aging process is a major goal and these five foods can help. They can slow the effects of aging on the body and prevent future damage. They also help protect the brain, the heart, and the skin, which are the first organs affected as we age. Adding a combination of these foods to your diet and exercise plan will keep you looking and feeling young, no matter your age.