Enhance Longevity With These 10 Foods

You’re not getting any younger. Nobody is…unless you’re Benjamin Button. But, whilst it may not be possible to stop the clock, you can enhance longevity. Optimal nutrition is one of your greatest weapons against time. If you can develop some healthy eating habits, you can slow the advancements of ageing. There are some foods that are particularly powerful allies. If you keep reading, you’ll discover why.

Of course, diet alone is just one piece of the puzzle. You should find activities that you enjoy and keep your body physically fit. Coupled with nutrient dense foods, you’ll be at the top of your game whatever your age. 

Now, let’s talk about those 10 foods that you’ll want to add to your menu straight away. 

Clean plant protein

If you’ve been under the impression that meat is your best source of protein, we’d like you to rethink your position. Protein is everywhere, really! All whole foods contain some protein, it’s just that some are more plentiful in this important compound. In fact, beans contain 14g of it for every (cooked) cup. A 28g serving of almonds contains more protein than the same amount of beef. Almonds also contain loads of bioavailable calcium, so they help to prevent osteoporosis. This is a condition to which anyone older than 30 is at risk. It causes a loss of bone mass, so fractures are more likely.

Collosal coconut

We’re beginning to think that there’s nothing worth doing that coconut can’t do. It’s a remarkable source of fibre, healthy fats and (yes) protein. Not only does it nourish your brain, but it also bolsters your immunity – and it does it all without cholesterol. What coconut will do, however, is to help stimulate your body’s production of the hormones that keep it youthful.  Convinced yet? How about this, then? Coconut regulates insulin levels and acts as an anti-inflammatory. We’d say that’s mighty impressive.

Red, not dead

Look at them. They just look healthy, don’t they? Red fruits are as nutritious as they are delicious. Their antioxidants can prevent urinary infections. They’re also loaded with vitamin C and flavonoids, both of which protect your immunity and prevent heart disease.

Go with avocado 

If you’re looking for an unbeatable vitamin profile, avocado’s hard to beat. This lusciously creamy fruit can slow the onset of many of the diseases that are associated with ageing. Avocados are rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B6, D. They’ve got plenty of potassium, too, which regulates blood pressure and cardiac rhythm. This will protect you from heart attacks and coronary diseases.

Bulletproof broccoli

Harmless as it appears, broccoli is a formidable foe against ageing. Its bountiful supply of vitamins A and C strengthen the immune system. Like its cruciferous cousins, it’s also perfect for combatting cancer and heart disease. Need a detox? Broccoli can help. It’s wonderful for cleansing the body. 

Get on with oregano

Clinical studies have proven that oregano contains carvacrol. This phenol is what gives the herb its distinctive aroma – and it’s also the component that prevents joint inflammation. Oregano slows bone degeneration and strengthens the skeletal system.

Garlic: bad for vampires, good for you

You only need to commit to eating one, tiny garlic clove (preferably raw) each day. That’s it. That’s all it takes to benefit from the protection it offers against cancer and heart disease. One per week can reduce your risk of contracting colon cancer. Apart from all that, garlic is versatile. You can use it in a number of ways to benefit from its immunity boosting properties. 

Wild about walnuts

They’re not just for cakes anymore. Walnuts and dried fruits should really be in heavy rotation on your menu. They’re brilliant for general health – and that’s no surprise when you cast an eye over their nutritional profile. They’re full of minerals such as potassium, magnesium, zinc and selenium. Your body loves that stuff and puts it to good use. Research has repeatedly shown that eating five walnuts a days will improve heart function. Watch out, Alzheimer’s, depression and multiple sclerosis. Walnut’s about.

No apologies for apples

Some adages hold true. An apple a day? That’s one of them. This fruit was a superfood before anyone in the Western world could even pronounce quinoa. It strengthens and nourishes hair and skin, bolsters general immunity and hosts so many vital nutrients that lesser foods sob with envy. You can even use apples in baking as an alternative for sugars and sweeteners. Green apples are an easy, natural way to improve intestinal health and prevent cancer. Heart problems? Reach for apples…and keep reaching. You’ll be around for a long time.

Wonderful wheat germ

Wheat germ should be a cupboard staple. You can sprinkle it on porridge or salad and enjoy its plethora of vitamin E, vitamin B complex and iron. Often overlooked, but highly recommended, wheat germ is proven to prevent artherosclerosis. Eat it every day and you could enhance your longevity by five years.

Common sense caution

We’ll leave you with our usual words of advice. If you’re experiencing health issues and they’re not resolving themselves after a week of natural treatment, do book an appointment with your GP.