Foods For a Super Long Life

Recent research shows that specific chemicals in foods --
such as sulforaphane, a phytochemical in broccoli -- work
with your genes to ratchet up your body's natural defense
systems, helping to inactivate toxins and free radicals
before they can do the damage that leads to cancer,
cardiovascular disease, and even premature aging.
And the hope for the future is to be able to tell someone
what diseases or maladies they are might be genetically
predispositioned to early on, so their diets can be focused
accordingly. We’ll know which ones to add, which ones to
avoid, and be able to take a proactive role in preventing or
deterring a genetic disease. In the meantime, many foods
have been determined to pack a punch to the aging process.

Lycopene, the pigment that makes tomatoes red, also appears
to reduce risk for cardiovascular disease, some cancers, and
macular degeneration. It’s also been associated in greater
self-sufficiency in elderly adults. While fresh tomatoes
have a good hit of lycopene, the most absorbable forms are
found in cooked tomato products, such as spaghetti sauce and
soup and prepared salsas. Pink grapefruit, guava, red bell
peppers, and watermelon are also rich in lycopene.

Eating at least two cups of orange fruits like sweet
potatoes, squash and carrots boosts intake of beta-carotene,
which converts to vitamin A, essential for healthy skin and
eyes, and which may also reduce the risk of some cancers,
cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Lutein and
lycopene, also found in orange produce, also help reduce the
risk of macular degeneration and may protect skin from sun
damage and even reduce wrinkling as well. Mangos and
cantaloupes are also beta-carotene endowed.

And if you don’t do anything else to change your diet, eat
your dark leafy greens. They have been showed to
significantly reduce your risk for heart disease and may
also save your eyesight. Dietary guidelines advise at least
three cups of greens a week. Frozen or bagged is as good as
fresh.

Don’t forget the mental aging process either. The
heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids have also recently been
shown to keep your brain sharp. A recent study found that a
higher intake of fatty fish significantly reduced mental
decline. If fresh fish isn't an option, go for canned
tuna, salmon, and sardines.