We are what we eat.

And lots of people are waking up to the health risks of ultra processed foods:

1. Cardiovascular Disease: Consuming these foods regularly increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. Obesity: Ultra-processed foods are loaded with sugar, salt, and trans fats, contributing to weight gain and obesity.
3. Diabetes: The poor nutritional profile of ultra-processed foods can lead to a higher incidence of type-2 diabetes.
4. Mental Health Disorders: There is evidence that eating diets high in ultra-processed foods leads to depression.
5. Alzheimer’s: High levels of sugar in ultra processed foods are linked to “glycation”, which causes inflammation in the brain.

The good news is that there are lots of healthier alternatives to industrially made foods. 

In fact, there are lots of natural options backed by science for their ability to fight inflammation, slow down aging, and even extend your “healthspan”.

Here are five anti-aging foods we recommend:

1. Blueberries: Nature's Antioxidant Buster

Blueberries are promoted as a “superfood”, and for good reason.

Rich in nutrients and antioxidants, blueberries support heart health, lower blood pressure, protect against aging and cancer, improve memory, and aid in exercise recovery. 

The high antioxidant content of blueberries, particularly anthocyanins, contributes to these significant health benefits.

2. Spinach: The Ultimate Green Machine

Popeye was ahead of the curve when it comes to the health boosting power of spinach.

Spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable, offering health benefits like improved eye health, antioxidant effects, heart health support, and digestive aid. It's packed with vitamins A, C, K1, folic acid, iron, and calcium, promoting immune function and metabolic regulation, potentially reducing disease risk.

So consider adding a handful of spinach to your salads, smoothies, and omelets to boost their anti-aging power.

3. Avocado: The Creamy, Dreamy Superfood

Avocados aren’t just a popular toast topping among millennials.

These creamy green fruits are loaded with healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins C, E, K, and B6. They support vision, bone health, and digestion, and may help reduce depression risk and inflammation, enhancing overall well-being.

So whether you eat it mashed on toast, toss it in a salad, or eat it straight with a spoon – avocado deserves a spot in your anti-aging diet.

4. Salmon: The Omega-3 Fatty Acid Powerhouse

If you want to give your skin, brain, and heart a big boost, look no further than salmon. 

Salmon is highly nutritious, offering omega-3 fatty acids, protein, B vitamins, and selenium. These nutrients help support heart health, reduce inflammation, aid weight management, and may lower cancer risk. 

Plus, salmon is a great source of protein, which helps keep your metabolism motoring and fuelling you with energy.

5. Nuts and Seeds: The Nutrient-Dense Morning Snack

Nuts and seeds are like nature's little vitamin pills – they're packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which all help to support heart health, aid in weight management, reduce disease risk, and offer antioxidant properties.

So rather than a packet of Oreos, grab a handful of almonds, chia seeds, and walnuts as your midmorning snack instead.

Nourishing your body holds the key to feeling and looking young

As the 5 foods in this article show, your food choices have a massive impact on your appearance, health, and your “healthspan”.

Nourishing your body with whole, nutrient-dense foods will make you feel amazing from the inside out. And reduce the risk of hospital visits down the road.

So try to cut out ultra processed foods as much as possible, and fill your plate with natural food sources instead.