The fountain of youth has yet to be found, bottled and sold for R50 at Clicks. But that doesn’t mean you can’t buy the secret to longevity (aka anti-ageing foods) at the supermarket.
By now, you know about the anti-ageing power of antioxidants (cue The Avengers soundtrack). Spotting foods high in the stuff is simple: they’re the ones bursting with colour. “Studies show that by eating right you can lower your risk of conditions like Alzheimer’s and diabetes,” says nutrition expert Kristen Beck.
READ MORE: What Is Amaranth And Is It Healthier Than Quinoa?
Long-life eating plan
As well as choosing the best foods, eating less can also reduce the toll on your body. It’s not yet known exactly why eating less makes such a difference, but we do know that a low-kilojoule diet reduces your body’s core temperature and its response to insulin, both of which may increase longevity in humans.
READ MORE: The 3 Easiest Ways To Eat Healthy When You’re On A Budget
Noticing the kilo creep?
Start cutting kilojoules – while keeping nutrients, says Beck – by ditching the refined, processed foods (empty kilojoules) and being wary of massive smoothie bowls, juices, snacks and Paleo and raw bars. “They may look beautiful, but often the portions are way too big and contain large amounts of dried fruit,” she warns. Word.
READ MORE: 6 Easy Ways To Get Your Daily Dose Of Superfood Turmeric
Your anti-ageing shopping list
Take this list to the supermarket and sock up on the most potent anti-ageing foods…
Pantry goods: Whole-grain pasta, whole-grain bread, almonds, chickpeas, green tea
Wine: Pinotage, merlot
Fruit and veg: Avocados (hooray!), beetroot, blackberries, blueberries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, carrots, cherries, aubergines, onions, oranges, pears, pink grapefruit, plums, pomegranates, prunes, raspberries, red peppers, red grapes, spinach, strawberries, sweet potatoes, tomatoes
Fish: Tuna, salmon, trout
