Power of anti-ageing food: Eat right and stay young

Ageing is a natural, over the time process and it does not hide its arrival when it dawns on someone. Low immunity, poor digestion, joint aches, muscle loss, impaired cognition, improper sleep, a low appetite, and loss of bone strength are common in elderly people. The cells in our body age with every passing second. Although ageing cannot be stopped, it surely can be slowed down. We are what we eat, and our health is the mirror of our nutritional intake. Correct nutrition has a positive impact on different body functions, including brain health (e.g., cognition, memory, and learning), joint health (e.g., mobility and function), and skin health (e.g., texture, hydration, and tone). Here is a list of foods with anti-aging properties: 

Antioxidant-rich fruits like strawberries, kiwis, lemons, and oranges are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which help fight the free radicals. It also helps prevent cardiovascular diseases and promotes immunity. 

Papaya: It is a good source of vitamin A and C that scavenge free radicals and neutralise them before they cause damage. It also contains papain, which is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent. It is one of the best anti-ageing foods for skin health.  

Nuts like walnuts and almonds are rich in vitamin E. It helps boost the elasticity of the skin and prevents premature aging of the skin. The omega 3 in walnuts also cognitive health. 

Turmeric, the golden herb, has anti-inflammatory effects on joints and positively influences immunity. Its antibacterial properties prevent pimples and acne. It has antidepressant effects and also aids in improving digestive health. 

Spinach: It helps improve immunity, and the DHA in spinach helps maintain cognitive health in older adults. The vitamin C in spinach is necessary to produce collagen. 

Aloe vera is effective in soothing sunburn, skin conditions like eczema, and dry, flaky skin. It is a natural laxative that helps prevent constipation and reduce blood glucose levels in older adults. 

Sesame oil contains vitamin E, which can help protect skin cells from the damage caused by environmental factors such as UV rays, pollution, and toxins. Its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling in the joints. 

Green tea: It reduces skin irritation, skin redness, prevents cardiovascular diseases and helps reduce weight gain due to old age. Foods rich in antioxidant and antiaging properties will help us remain healthy and young, both in mind and body. 

Dr Anish Desai is MD, Clinical Pharmacologist and Nutraceutical Physician, Founder and CEO IntelliMed Healthcare Solutions