For as long as we can remember, we’ve heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But not only can it boost your energy and memory levels, it also can impact how long you live. Studies show that by eating certain foods, you can help slow the aging process. Here are just six amazing anti-aging treats you might want to go for first thing in the morning.
1. Blueberries
Although tiny, blueberries pack a huge anti-aging health punch. Rich in polyphenols, research suggests that a blueberry-rich diet not only improves your motor skills, but also can help fight diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
Indeed one recent study published in Circulation: Journal of the American Heart Association showed that women who ate the most blueberries — as well as their superfood cousin, strawberries — enjoyed a 32 percent lower heart attack risk than women who only ate these berries once a month (or not at all).
2. Oatmeal
For years, research has shown a strong correlation between oatmeal and cholesterol reduction. Oatmeal is rich in soluble fiber that gets rid of “bad” cholesterol. Oats also are packed with the antioxidants that do battle against cell damage. And that can help plump skin and reduce wrinkles.
3. Eggs
Eggs usually come under fire because of their high cholesterol content. But studies show that healthy men and women who consume an egg a day actually do not experience negative health repercussions. In addition, eggs contain all the essential B vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12, choline, biotin, and folic acid. Choline has been shown to protect your memory, while two proteins in eggs — lutein and zeaxanthin — protect against vision loss.
4. Tea
Many teas are high in anti-aging antioxidants. But green tea is rich in an antioxidant known as EGCG, which helps fight wrinkles and rejuvenate skin cells. Green tea also may protect against cancer, control blood sugar levels, and help reduce inflammation associated with Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
5. Pomegranate Juice
If tea’s not your thing, try pomegranate juice instead. Studies show that a glass ofpomegranate juice a day could help keep wrinkles at bay. Not only has pomegranate been shown to slow down the natural oxidation (“wear and tear”) of DNA, it also has been linked to the prevention of heart disease and stress relief.
6. Grapefruit
In addition to helping you feel full, which in turn may assist with weight loss,grapefruit also can help lower “bad” cholesterol and triglyceride levels while also boosting “good” HDL cholesterol. Deep red varieties are best as studies show they can also help keep heart disease at bay.
One caveat: Grapefruit can prove hazardous when combined with certain prescription medicines.
