Best Anti-Aging Foods

Pomegranates are packed with vitamin C, which helps guard against the wrinkling effects of sun damage. The juice in pomegranate seeds contains both ellagic acid and punicalagin. The first is a polyphenol compound that fights damage from free radicals; the second is a super nutrient that may increase your body's capacity to preserve collagen, the sub dermal connective tissue that makes skin look smooth and plump.

Watermelon contains the ultimate antioxidant, vitamin C, plus lycopene and potassium, which regulates the balance of water and nutrients in cells.

The good fats in olive oil are highly beneficial; they contain heart-healthy omega-3s, which improve circulation, leaving skin rosy and supple.

These vital veggies contain special phytonutrients, or antioxidant compounds, that help guard against damage caused by the sun. Spinach is loaded with beta-carotene and lutein, two nutrients that have been shown to improve skin elasticity, according to a study in the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry.

These little blue wonders contain more antioxidants than any other food. They can give your skin extra protection against the skin-damaging free radicals that result from sun exposure, emotional stress, and even over exercising.

Whole grains prevent high blood sugar and diabetes as they are digested more slowly than processed grains. Rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, whole grains can lower the risk of age-related illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant compound that helps maintain youthful skin texture and may reduce the risk of some types of cancer (especially prostate, lung, and stomach cancers) and heart disease.

Spices such as turmeric and ginger contain anti-inflammatory compounds that might reduce the risk of age-related medical conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. The antioxidant substances in garlic and onions can protect against heart disease and cancer; cinnamon may help lower blood sugar.