10 Foods That Will Help You Live Longer
/. Dark chocolate
a. Dark chocolate is packed with flavonoids and antioxidants, both of which can reduce inflammation and help prevent blood clots.
b. Research shows that inflammation is associated with aging and age-related diseases, so anti-inflammatory foods may be a key to a longer life.
2. Broccoli
a. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli contain cancer-preventing chemicals like sulforaphane.
b. In one study, broccoli-eaters were found to live longer than those who didn't include the veggie in their diets.
3. Nuts
a. A recent study found that eating just a handful of nuts every day could help extend a person's lifetime.
b. Specifically, nut-munchers were found to be a lower risk for dying from life-threatening disease like diabetes and cancer.
4. Beets
a. Beets are rich in a compound called betaine, which is are also linked with anti-inflammatory powers.
5. Tomatoes
a. Tomatoes have been shown to lower the risk of some cancers, cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.
b. Tomatoes are a good source of vitamin C and boast credible amounts of an antioxidant called Lycopene.
6. Berries
a. Strawberries, blueberries and the like provide sweet bursts of flavor and a powerful amount of antioxidants, which help protect against aging.
b. Specifically, berries contain an antioxidant called anthocyanin that supports brain function and muscle retention.
7. Olive oil
a. Olive oil is main food in Mediterranean diet - one of the world's healthiest ways of eating.
b. Olive oil’s healthy fats have been found to help combat age-related cognitive decline.
8. Salmon
a. Rich in omega 3 fatty acids.
b. Have been shown to protect against cognitive decline and reduce inflammation.
9. Cranberries
a. Contain antioxidants known to support a healthy long life
b. In one study, an oregano-cranberry mixture was found to extend the lives of fruit flies. Researchers said they were confident that the botanical mix would have similar effects on humans, helping ward off age-related diseases.
10. Spicy food
a. A recently published study from China found that those who eat spicy foods, like peppers, are less likely to die early.
b. The researchers also found that spicy food eaters were at a lower risk of death from cancer and heart disease.