by Caroline St Clare

Created on: February 15, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

None of us are growing any younger but the speed we age can vary enormously from person to person. Stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, smoke, pollution - they're all major contributors to the aging process. However, by making simple changes to our diet, it is possible to slow down the rate at which we age as well as delaying or preventing the onset of many serious diseases.

While a diet containing a wide variety of fruit, vegetables and wholegrains is known to improve overall health, some foods provide far greater benefits than others. These are often referred to as superfoods'.

What Are Superfoods?

Superfoods are so called because they're rich in antioxidants, the chemicals that help the body fight illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's, diabetes and other conditions associated with aging. By consuming a wide range of superfoods, you'll be maximizing their benefits in order to help you reach your potential lifespan.

The Best Superfoods

Fruit and Vegetables:

All fruit and vegetables contain antioxidants. However, some are more beneficial for a longer life than others.

Apples:

Yes, an apple a day, really can keep the doctor away. The Red Delicious variety of apple contains the highest concentration of polyphenols, a major cancer-fighting antioxidant. But don't peel off the skin as this is where majority of these polyphenols are to be found.

Berries:

Blueberries probably contain the highest concentration of antioxidants in the berry family. Researchers have found they can improve short-term memory loss and enhance balance and co-ordination, leading them to look at the role blueberries may have in preventing Alzheimer's Disease.

Blackberries are rich in vitamin E, which can help prevent damage to the arteries and is vital for a healthy heart and circulatory system.

Strawberries have anti-inflammatory properties that work by blocking the enzymes responsible for causing inflammation in the body. They can also help control type II diabetes by reducing blood glucose levels.

Broccoli:

Broccoli contains some of the biggest weapons against cancer, particularly breast and ovarian. It's rich in the nutrients that help break down and eliminate potentially cancer causing chemicals in our body before they have a chance to develop into cancer.

It's also a good source of calcium, with one cup providing 10% of our daily requirements. And weight for weight, broccoli contains more vitamin C than an orange.

Tomatoes:

The humble tomato should feature prominently on your weekly

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