by Sarah Williams

Created on: March 06, 2009   Last Updated: November 18, 2009

Fighting Age with Food

For every woman, looking young and aging gracefully is a necessity in one's beauty regimen. Many pay out the nose for cosmetic products and procedures, yet it hasn't been until recently that dietitians and scientists have found "fountain of youth" foods that fight against the signs of aging. There are several foods containing antioxidants that fight free radicals. These can cause widespread cell damage and inflammation, which then result in our skin aging faster. Free radicals are what cause cancer, heart disease, and even Alzheimer's. Antioxidants play a significant role because they help in repairing damaged cells that are broken down by free radicals; once the cell is repaired, it is less likely to become cancerous or life-threatening.

A food loaded with free radical fighting antioxidants is blueberries; this power packed berry is not only good for your waistline, but also yourcomplexion. The main ingredient in blueberries is Vtamin C, a powerful antioxidant that keeps skin looking smooth and youthful.Yet it is not just blueberries that hold all the antioxidant power; berries in general pack a good punch of many vitamins that are vital to fighting free radicals that age not only our skin but our bodies as well. Yet just recently, studies have shown that red beans have even more free radical fighting antioxidants than blueberries. Other foods rich in antioxidants are broccoli, carrots, spinach, tomatoes, whole grains and soy.

Tea and red wine are also great ways to easily consume a large portion of antioxidants. White or green tea can provide anywhere from 10 to 40 mg of polyphenols, more than a serving of broccoli. Green tea and white tea contain a particularly strong antioxidant, EGCG; while red wine has been shown to improve heart health because it contains the free radical fighting antioxidant resveratrol. Herbs and spices such as cinnamon, garlic, oregano, and ground cloves have shown to have significant levels of antioxidants as well.

When consuming most of the vegetables, herbs, and spices mentioned above, it is best to cook or steam them to acquire the full nutritional benefits. The great thing about many of these foods, is that they are delicious, hassle-free to find and effortless to fit into a normal person's every day diet. Berries are relatively cheap and can be found at any grocery store, instead of just eating them by themselves, try adding them with yogurt, or a salad or even a smoothie. Fruit is great to eat in the

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