The WoW Style

Aging is a natural process, which takes its own time around a designated course of life to complete an inevitable span. Despite the unavoidable nature of aging, the body is exposed to several free radicals in the environment that speed up its process, leading to premature aging, and consequently, a variety of illnesses and eventually, death.

The environment consists of a hoard of free radicals, toxins, and pollutants that damage cells and give rise to malfunctioning metabolic processes in the body. A sedentary lifestyle along with habitual smoking and poor dietary habits promote the unnecessary and life-threatening production of free radicals and oxidants in the body.

There is significant evidence pointing out the correlation between the oxidation of damaging free radicals and aging. Its conclusion invites attention to the promotion of cell proliferation towards a diminished life span.

There is no real way to stop the natural process of aging, but there are several dietary and lifestyle modifications like coffee protein powder that can help promote a longer and qualitative life span. Since the consumption of antioxidants and anti-aging go hand in hand, several studies support their correlation for slowing down the process of premature aging. According to Siegfried Hekimi, a molecular geneticist at McGill University, it is essential to regulate the consumption of oxidants in the body instead of lowering their production as a whole. For instance, consider hydrogen peroxide, a free radical that poses significant harm toward natural aging, but also holds pivotal importance in signal transduction procedures.

Moreover, Siegfried supports the alteration of a sedentary lifestyle with regulatory antioxidants found in several naturally existing foods. Mentioned below, are seven antioxidant foods that slow down the process of premature aging.

Watercress

It belongs to the mighty family of green leafy vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, Brussel Sprouts, arugula, and kale. Watercress tops the list of antioxidants that slow down the process of aging. Watercress is known mainly as a healthy dietary staple for Roman soldiers back in ancient times, primarily due to its low caloric content and high ANDI (Aggregate Nutrient Density Index) score.

Watercress contains a high amount of Vitamin K which helps in clotting, and a host of hydrating chemical compounds including potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and manganese, all of which have their own set of importance in the human body. Significantly, watercress also consists of vitamin A and C which act as regulatory antioxidants and help in neutralizing free radicals for the promotion of wrinkle-free skin and a glowing complexion.

Coffee Berry Extract

Coffee berries are plump cherries plants whose seeds are known as coffee beans. You can make them an integral part of your early morning cup of freshly brewed coffee. Stocked with high levels of phenolic acids and polyphenols, the extract of coffee berries became quite popular for administration in skincare products. With immense anti-inflammatory and healing properties for skin conditions such as eczema and dermatitis, the coffee berry extract is one of the leading antioxidants for the prevention of premature occurrence of fine lines, wrinkles, and ultraviolet skin damage.

Papaya

Known as nature’s prime anti-aging and anti-inflammatory agent, papaya is a house to antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, K, B Complex, and E, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. These vitamins and chemical compounds help to preserve skin elasticity by fighting against oxidants and protecting the skin against harm. Papain, an enzyme found in papaya, helps to nourish the skin by boosting exfoliation through its anti-inflammatory and anti-aging properties. For glowing and vibrant skin, you can either have some papaya daily for breakfast or blend some into a mask for everyday use.

Blueberry

Apart from being a host of well-nourishing nutrients such as vitamins A and C, blueberries also help to battle oxidants and slow down the process of aging. Anthocyanin, found in blueberries, is a water-soluble pigment responsible for manifesting color in foods as per its pH levels. Anthocyanin contains a host of antioxidants that help to reduce collagen loss by moderating the inflammatory processes in skin for maximum protection against the harsh weather components.

Cinnamon

While cinnamon is known primarily as an aromatic and flavoring condiment, this spice acquired from rolled South Asian tree barks, is also known for its blood sugar regulatory and collagen-boosting benefits. Cinnamon helps to promote the production of collagen in the skin, therefore, reducing the occurrence of fine lines and wrinkles for the prevention of premature aging.

Nuts

The consumption of nuts such as almonds, pistachios, and walnuts is essential for reduced and slow deterioration of skin, primarily due to their rich age-defying and anti-inflammatory components. Apart from eating almonds, many skin-care regimens include almond scrubs for adequate exfoliation and removal of dead skin cells. Almonds contain Vitamin E, which is why they provide suitable nourishment to the skin. They also help to prevent breakouts, blemishes, cracking, and the appearance of fine lines and harm caused by exposure to UV rays and radicals.

Walnuts, on the other hand, are saturated with polyunsaturated omega-3 fatty acids that can also be found in fish, flaxseeds, and canola oil, to name a few. Walnuts help to lower blood cholesterol and consequently, blood pressure. Doctors and practitioners highly recommend it for consumption in patients suffering from Metabolic Syndrome.

Omega-3 fatty acids also help to promote the healthy development of the fetus during pregnancy and help to boost brain health by counteracting anxiety and depression as well. For the enhancement of glow and complexion, omega-3 fatty acids help to maintain skin composure by preserving sebum and regulating the natural oil barrier in the skin.

Pomegranate Seeds

Similar to blueberries and coffee berries, pomegranates also comprise of seeds that are rich in antioxidants and help to reduce the stress levels in our body. Pomegranate seeds contain naturally existing antioxidants known as punicalagin, which helps to prevent the breakdown and consequently boost the production of collagen in skin for the restoration of skin elasticity. According to research, pomegranates also consist of urolithin A, a compound known for its interaction with enterobacteria, and the promotion of oxygenation in the skin.

In contrast to the afore-mentioned naturally existing antioxidant foods, coffee protein powder can act as an immense addition to your mundane breakfasts and brewed drinks. Whisk yourself an iced coffee, frappe, or smoothie for breakfast or lunch, and add this whey protein isolate for instant rejuvenation of energy and preservation of strength.