Foods That Can Help You Look Younger

As we age, many of us seek ways to mitigate the visible signs of ageing, especially on our skin. At Britt’s SuperFoods, we’re frequently asked about strategies to enhance skin health and combat the effects of ageing. Fortunately, incorporating certain foods into your diet can help improve the appearance of ageing skin.

Dr. Caroline Apovian, a Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics at Boston University School of Medicine, has shared her expertise on this topic, detailing eight foods that can help you achieve glowing, youthful skin. Her insights are both inspiring and empowering, offering simple yet effective dietary additions to promote skin health.

Rich in dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE), a compound that strengthens cell membranes and prevents the deterioration that leads to premature ageing. DMAE also increases acetylcholine levels, enhancing muscle tone and firmness under the skin, and reduces the production of arachidonic acid, which is linked to wrinkle formation and skin sagging.

Abundant in alpha lipoic acid (ALA). ALA is a potent antioxidant that combats free radicals responsible for ageing. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing under-eye circles, puffiness, redness, and wrinkles. Wheatgrass juice is a nutritional powerhouse, rich in chlorophyll, which is known for its detoxification properties. It provides nearly all vitamins, with the exception of vitamin D, and offers an impressive array of 91 minerals, 20 amino acids, and over 80 enzymes.

Excellent sources of vitamin C, which helps repair skin damage from the sun and pollutants by stimulating collagen production. This leads to new skin growth, wrinkle reduction, and a smoother texture. A single red grapefruit or a serving of kale juice provides more than 100% of the recommended daily value for vitamin C, making them ideal for skin health.

Identified by the US Department of Agriculture as the fruit with the highest antioxidant content per serving. These antioxidants not only maintain youthful and smooth skin but also protect against memory loss, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

A favourite aphrodisiac, rich in zinc. Zinc is essential for repairing damaged tissues and forming new ones, benefiting not only the skin but also nails, hair, and eyes.

Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which the body cannot produce on its own. Omega-3s protect cell membranes, keeping harmful agents out, allowing nutrients in, and facilitating the elimination of waste products. Strong cell membranes also retain more water, resulting in moister, smoother skin. Incorporating a daily spoonful of omega-3 oil can significantly enhance skin health.

A powerful source of lycopene, an antioxidant that prevents premature ageing and protects the skin from sun damage. Research published in the Journal of Nutrition indicates that diets rich in tomatoes result in less sun damage. The body best absorbs lycopene from cooked tomatoes, so incorporating tomato sauces and soups is particularly beneficial.

Contain choline and lutein, both crucial for skin health. Choline supports the formation of cell membranes and regulates B vitamins necessary for collagen and elastin production, ensuring firm and smooth skin. Lutein is an antioxidant that protects skin elasticity and prevents damage.