When it comes to trying to preserve our youth, many of us turn to anti-aging products, medical procedures and special treatments. However, there is another alternative that is easy, cost efficient and most of all - delicious! Nutrition plays a large part in physical health but also in how we age. Find out what foods you can include in your daily diet that will help you turn back the clock naturally from the inside out.

It goes without saying that aside from eating the right foods, it is also important to include moderate exercise, adequate rest and a positive outlook on life. Most people know that the essential foods to eat regularly are fruits and vegetables but not many people really know why these foods are so crucial to aging gracefully.

Phytonutrients are being hailed as the must-have component for anyone hoping to fight off the signs of aging. As a member of the antioxidant family, phytonutrients are very powerful and excel in destroying free radicals within the body. Free radicals are the main culprits in causing heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and osteoporosis. By choosing foods and drinks that contain phytonutrients, other antioxidants and ingredients with anti-inflammatory properties, you can effectively slow down the aging process by reducing the cellular turnover level of skin cells. What does that mean? A younger and fresher looking appearance. An example of such foods includes cold-water fish and fruits and vegetables that are rich in color.

On the flip side, consuming large amounts of sugars, starches, and trans and saturated fatty acids can cause the body to trigger an anti-inflammatory response and an increase in insulin levels, which results in speeding up the aging process of the skin. Other factors that can easily make you age faster include too much exposure to UV rays, stress, hormones and a weak immune system.

To make sure you’re on the right track when it comes to aging gracefully through food, be sure you include daily helpings of the following: legumes, yogurt, nuts, whole grains, colorful fruits and vegetables, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and plenty of water. For foods that specifically aid in providing the body with anti-inflammatory benefits, consume a hearty helping of garlic, scallions, chives, shallots, onions, leeks, acai fruit, wheatgrass, lentils, barley, beans, seeds/nuts, kefir, sprouts, and hot peppers.

For good measure drink between six to ten small cups of green tea. This ancient beverage contains potent polyphenols, which work to absorb harmful UV rays in order to eliminate free radicals from penetrating into your skin.

Looking for an easy to make snack that is nutritious and meets all of the anti-aging requirements? Simply combine a ½ teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, 1/3 cup of white chocolate chips, one cup of dried and diced apricots, half a cup of dried cherries and cranberries, 1 ½ cups of unsalted or lightly salted roasted peanuts, and ½ cup of unsalted or lightly salted roasted almonds and sunflower seeds and put together into a plastic bag. Shake well until all the ingredients are mixed and enjoy a handful!

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