9 Superfoods For Healthy Aging

These 9 superfoods have been found to increase life expectancy, boost vitality and even improve hair and complexion. Not only will you feel better and live longer, but you'll also stay youthful looking and radiant well into your old age. Wherever you are in your life right now, it's never too late to begin turning back the clock. Start incorporating the following superfoods into your diet today to get super healthy and add years to your life.

#1: Mushrooms

Studies conducted on different types of mushrooms found that they are packed with longevity-promoting substances. They're rich in nutrients that enhance the function and activity of immune cells, prevent DNA damage, and can slow down cancerous cell growth. Portobello and white mushrooms are especially potent in protecting against breast cancer. Some of the more exotic types such as shitake, Reishi, and Maitake are thought to contain a higher density of longevity-promoting substances.

#2: Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables are called the "powerhouse" of superfoods because of their amazing superpowers. They have the ability to activate the body's detoxification function, a process that cleanses the body and flushes out harmful toxins and other accumulated 'junk'. They can also prevent the growth of cancer cells.

#3: Berries

All berries are packed with longevity-boosting antioxidants and are excellent for heart health. In one of the many studies conducted on these nutrient-rich fruits, participants who ate strawberries and blueberries every day for several weeks displayed the following improvements: lower oxidative stress levels, lower cholesterol levels, and improved blood pressure. In addition to having anti-cancer properties, berries also promote brain health.

#4: Pomegranate

The pomegranate fruit has been known for its health-promoting and therapeutic properties since ancient times. Pomegranates are rich in punicalagin, a highly powerful antioxidant, making them a uniquely potent anti-cancer superfood. Pomegranates also promote heart and brain health.

#5 Salad Greens

Salad greens are commonly referred to as 'leafy greens'. As the name implies, they include all leafy vegetables such as all types of lettuce, spinach, arugula, and cruciferous vegetables. Less common types of leafy greens include kale, collard greens, beet greens, watercress, Swiss chard, and endives

#6: Seeds

Most people are unfamiliar with the wide range of edible seeds, the two most commonly known being pumpkin and sunflower seeds. But this superfood group also includes chia seeds Egusi, flax, hemp, jackfruit, nigella, and sesame. Seeds are very similar to nuts in that they are a source of healthy fats and promote heart health.

#7: Beans

Beans are one of the best sources of non-animal protein and are the most nutritious starches you can eat. A daily portion of beans helps stabilize blood sugar and ward off diabetes. The type of antioxidants they contain also protect against colon cancer.

#8: Onions and Garlic

Onions and garlic are the mainstay of Mediterranean diets and are used widely in Far Eastern cuisine. Not everybody appreciates the pungent taste and smell of onion and garlic but you may learn to develop a taste for them after learning about their amazing properties. Onions and garlic are highly beneficial to cardiovascular and immune system health.

# 9: Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain so many health-boosting properties that they definitely deserve to be on the age-busting superfoods list. Beta carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and cancer-fighting flavonoids are just some of the nutrients found in tomatoes.

The versatility and assortment of these 9 superfoods make them easily adaptable to any diet. Many of them, such as berries, nuts, and tomatoes are all-time favorites that you and your family can enjoy on a daily basis. Some of the less common superfoods offer you a great opportunity to experiment with new flavors and try different recipes that can make them popular with your family as well. So, stock up on these superfoods, surf the web for tempting recipes, and create a meal plan to stay on track. That's all you need to start boosting your longevity today!

-Misty Cassady