Not only do women (and some men) want to get rid of unwanted weight, but they also want to look great too! Fine lines and wrinkles, droopy skin, and saggy arms do not have to be a part of your aging experience if you include the best superfoods in your diet for beauty and weight management. In fact, if you want to be one of those people that often receive the compliment: “You look good for your age”, superfoods are a must. Today let’s look at the top 6 superfoods you should start consuming so you can look like you’re in your 20’s.
1) Goji Berries
Goji berries, Hollywood’s hottest new food, are one of the most nutritionally dense foods on earth and house a staggering concentration of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, phytochemicals, and essential fatty acids. With such an awesome constitution it is not surprising they are reputed anti-aging marvels. Originating in Tibet and greatly favored in traditional medicine these dried berries have many noted health benefits including boosting immunity, lowering cholesterol, enhancing vision, fighting cancer cells, relieving depression, and aiding weight loss.
Goji berries contain 500 times more vitamin C than oranges by weight and more beta-carotene than carrots making them a superb source of vitamin A. Together with vitamin E and essential fatty acids, these berries are ideal for any anti-aging and beauty regime. They also contain polysaccharides, which have been found to stimulate the secretion of the rejuvenating human growth hormone by the pituitary gland, as well as B vitamins, 21 minerals, and 18 amino acids.
The most well-documented case of longevity is that of Li Qing Yuen, who lived to the age of 252. Born in 1678, he is said to have married 14 times with 11 generations of posterity before his death in 1930. Li Qing Yuen reportedly consumed goji berries daily, adding them to his diet through smoothies and other dishes.
A study cited in Dr. Mindell’s book ‘Goji: The Himalayan Health Secret’, observed that 67 percent of elderly people who were given a daily dose of berries for 3 weeks experienced dramatic immune system enhancement and a significant improvement in spirit and optimism.
2) Aloe Vera
Forget botox, Aloe vera increases collagen production 100% naturally for a youthful, wrinkle-free complexion and plump, beautiful skin. The ultimate Botox alternative! The inner gel of the aloe vera leaf contains around 200 active compounds with over 75 nutrients. These include 20 minerals, 18 amino acids, and 12 vitamins (even vitamin B12 – one of the very few plant sources of this vitamin).
Aloe vera also has anti-microbial properties fighting fungi and bacteria and houses anti-inflammatory plant steroids and enzymes. Aloe vera is known to aid digestion and elimination, boost the immune system, and be highly effective at healing, moisturizing, and rejuvenating the skin, naturally stimulating the production of collagen.
Aloe vera is best eaten fresh when possible (you can order large aloe vera leaves which last a few weeks refrigerated). Scrape out the inside gel, avoiding the outside of the leaf which is a strong laxative, and blend with fruit for the ultimate beautifying smoothie.
Aloe vera has a mild flavour though a slightly bitter edge hence is best combined with fruit.
3) Avocados
Avocados are smoothing and softening for the skin and are easily absorbed; compared with almond, corn, olive, and soybean oils, avocado oil has the highest skin penetration rate.
Avocado also contains vitamin E (excellent for the skin), antioxidant carotenoids, and the master antioxidant glutathione which is exceptionally powerful and has anti-carcinogenic potential. High levels of glutathione are found in the liver where the elimination of toxic materials takes place.
Glutathione is effective against pollutants such as cigarette smoke and exhaust fumes as well as ultraviolet radiation. Research is currently exploring the potential benefits of glutathione for numerous conditions including cancer, heart disease, memory loss, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease, eczema, liver disorders, heavy metal poisoning, and AIDS.
Additionally, avocados are high in monounsaturated fats, making them a superfood for age-defying beauty.
4) Chlorella
The nucleic acids RNA and DNA in Chlorella (one of the highest known sources of such) direct cellular growth and repair and enable our bodies to utilize nutrients more effectively, eliminate toxins, and avoid disease.
The production of nucleic acids in the body declines progressively as we age, which is no doubt why their intake is recommended by Dr. Benjamin Frank in ‘The No-Aging Diet’. Paul Pitchford in ‘Healing With Whole Foods’ writes that ‘insufficient nucleic acid causes premature aging as well as weakened immunity’, Research at the Medical College of Kanazawa in Japan found that mice that were fed chlorella had a 30 percent increase in life span. Replenishing RNA and DNA can be key to overall health, immunity, and longevity.
In addition to nucleic acids, chlorella is jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes, and amino acids, making it an incredibly rejuvenating and health-promoting superfood.
Try incorporating chlorella into your diet by adding it to soups, casseroles, and pasta dishes. Spirulina is a virtuous equivalent.
5) Bee pollen
When it comes to young and beautiful skin, bee pollen has outstanding gifts. Swedish dermatologist Dr. Lars-Erik Essen uses bee pollen to successfully treat acne and other skin conditions and observes its beautifying and anti-aging effects.
He reports that bee pollen ‘seems to prevent premature aging of the cells and stimulates the growth of new skin tissue. It offers effective protection against dehydration and injects new life into dry cells. It smoothes away wrinkles and stimulates a life-giving blood supply to all skin cells.’ He believes its skin rejuvenation properties are due to its high concentration of nucleic acids RNA and DNA, as well as its natural antibiotic action.
Bee pollen has a host of other health-promoting benefits that include fighting infections, lowering cholesterol, strengthening the blood, boosting the immune system, increasing physical strength and stamina, aiding longevity, and enhancing libido!
It has been called a ‘perfect food’ because it is so nutritionally complete.
6) Coconut oil
Coconut oil speeds up your metabolism and can actually help you lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. It is also incredibly beautifying and moisturizing for the skin and has antioxidant properties that protect against free-radical damage, keeping the skin youthful and healthy.
Taken internally or externally coconut oil is a great ally for any beauty skincare regime. It also contains lauric acid, an anti-microbial fatty acid that reduces inflammation and kills bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Conclusion
For anti-ageing and an abundance of health include these 6 superfoods in your diet on a regular basis. In addition to superfoods, I also recommend using light therapy to increase collagen production, boost stem cell activity and reduce fine lines and wrinkles. If you want to know what specific light therapy I personally use to naturally stop and even reverse the ageing process click here to learn more.
FAQs Related To Superfoods For Beauty
Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods that are believed to have various health benefits. While there isn't a specific list of superfoods exclusively for women, there are certain foods that can be particularly beneficial for women due to their nutrient content. Some superfoods that women may consider incorporating into their diet include:
1. Leafy green vegetables: Foods like spinach, kale, collard greens, and Swiss chard are rich in iron, calcium, and folate, which are important nutrients for women's health.
2. Berries: Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants and fiber, which can support weight loss, oxidative stress, and overall health and help maintain a healthy weight.
3. Fatty fish: Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have numerous benefits for heart health and brain function.
4. Legumes: Beans, lentils, garbanzo beans, and chickpeas are excellent sources of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate.
5. Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium. It also contains probiotics that can support gut health.
6. Nuts and seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Remember that a balanced diet with a variety of whole foods is key to good nutrition. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional nutritionist or registered dietitian for personalized advice
There are several 'superfoods' that have been backed by scientific research for their health benefits. Some of these include:
1. Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants, blueberries have been shown to improve brain function and memory, as well as reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Salmon: High in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and improved brain health.
3. Kale: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, kale is considered a nutrient powerhouse and has been associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and types of cancer.
4. Turmeric: This spice contains an active compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It has been studied for its potential benefits in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's disease.
5. Greek Yogurt: With higher protein content compared to regular yogurt, Greek yogurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics, which can promote gut health and support digestion.
6. Quinoa: A gluten-free grain alternative, quinoa is high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.
It's important to note that while these foods have shown promising health benefits in studies, they should be part of a balanced diet rather than relied upon as a sole solution for good health.
Here are some popular Indian superfoods:
1. Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric is often used in Indian cuisine and has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries.
2. Moringa: Also known as drumstick tree or "the miracle tree," moringa leaves are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
3. Amla (Indian Gooseberry): Amla is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a popular ingredient in traditional Indian remedies.
4. Ashwagandha: Used in Ayurvedic medicine, ashwagandha is believed to have various health benefits, including reducing stress and improving cognitive function.
5. Fenugreek: Fenugreek seeds and leaves are commonly used in Indian cooking and are believed to have multiple health benefits, such as aiding digestion and regulating blood sugar levels.
6. Amaranth: Amaranth is a gluten-free grain that is high in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium.
7. Quinoa: While not native to India, quinoa has gained popularity as a nutritious grain alternative due to its high protein content.
These are just a few examples of the many superfoods that originate from India. Incorporating these ingredients into your diet can provide numerous health benefits!
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