Top 8 foods that help increase longevity
04/14/2020 / By Joanne Washburn / Comments
Top 8 foods that help increase longevity

The foods you eat do more than just fill up your belly. Foods provide nourishment, power organs and ward off all sorts of ailments and conditions. But unhealthy foods, such as those that contain little to no nutrients, can drastically affect overall health. Poor nutrition is often the root cause of a host of diseases including obesity, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders and even cancer.

Fortunately, health can be easily restored. If you want to live a long and healthy life, start by ditching unhealthy foods. Regularly consuming organic and nutrient-dense foods like fruits and vegetables is known to improve vitality and overall quality of life.

In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine revealed that rural poor populations that survived off of locally-produced items like potatoes, vegetables, whole grains, milk and fish had low mortality rates. According to the study, such a “peasant-style” diet is linked to a good quality of life and a reduced risk of ailments and diseases.

But you don’t have to move to the countryside to enjoy the benefits of a “peasant-style” diet. You can easily improve the overall quality of your life by adopting a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, even if you are living in the city.

The following is a list of tasty, nutritious and organic foods that can greatly increase life expectancy.

Beans and legumes

Beans and legumes are excellent sources of high-quality protein that support muscle development. As plant-based foods, beans and legumes also contain high amounts of antioxidants, dietary fiber and micronutrients that aid various body functions including metabolism and immunity.

Leafy greens

Raw, leafy green vegetables contain antioxidants and important nutrients that mainly support cardiovascular health. Antioxidants are also known to reduce the risk of metabolic disorders like Type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. Common leafy greens to try include spinach, lettuce, kale and collard greens.

Cruciferous vegetables

Don’t stop at leafy greens – be sure to eat cruciferous vegetables as well. Veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and Brussels sprouts contain sulfur-rich compounds that have potent antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-carcinogenic properties against pathogens. You can never have too many vegetables, so eat as much as you like.

Fatty fish

Fatty fishes like salmon, herring, mackerel and tuna are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids that greatly reduce the risk of cardiovascular conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids also prevent the accumulation of cholesterol along arterial walls. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids boost brain function and prevent the onset of dementia.

Fruits

Fruits are excellent sources of natural sugars, antioxidants and dietary fiber. Berries, in particular, also have anti-cancer properties that can inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Meanwhile, heart-healthy fruits like bananas and avocados can improve blood pressure and reduce cholesterol.

Herbs and spices

Like most plant-based foods, herbs and spices contain antioxidants known as flavonoids that boost the immune system. Herbs such as basil, oregano, sage and rosemary are also often used as natural remedies to treat ailments and prevent diseases. Meanwhile, spices like turmeric and cinnamon are used to create medicinal drinks that promote relaxation and healing.

Eggs

Eggs also contain high-quality protein that can boost metabolism and promote weight loss. Unlike processed meats and foods that contain unhealthy fats, eggs do not affect blood cholesterol. Plus, eggs contain important B complex vitamins and micronutrients that contribute to overall health.

Tea

Whichever the variety, tea is an excellent source of antioxidants that improve immune functions, regulate blood pressure and promote weight loss. Tea also has anti-carcinogenic compounds that can protect against certain types of cancer.

Eating a variety of healthy foods is the key to good nutrition. Regularly eat fruits, veggies and whole grains to improve your overall health, avoid diseases and increase longevity.

Sources:

Journals.SAGEPub.com

Prevention.com

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