The foods that contain antioxidants can make a shield against the prime anti-aging foods factor in the body – Free RADICLES. And antioxidants are abundantly found in all fruits and vegetables.The elixir of life that can push forth our life span for a bit longer time has been sought since the time began. Scientists now reckon that the foods we eat may hold the answer.

Those featured below in the top 5 anti-aging foods are a mere selection of those of most available. Also think carrots, pawpaw, avocados, kiwi fruit, strawberries, grapes…the list of healthy, anti-aging foods is endless!

Dark green leafy vegetables are a rich source of vitamin C, carotenoids and anti-cancer substances such a sulphoraphane and genistein. They contain a variety of carotenoid pigments, including lutein and zeaxanthin that help to prevent age related eye problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene – a powerful antioxidant and anticancer agent that helps to prevent cell aging. Cooking tomatoes releases five times more lycopene than is available from raw tomatoes. Researches suggests that, of the many types of carotenoids found in foods , lycopene is the most effective against coronary heart disease and cancer – especially cancer of the lung, stomach, mouth, colon, rectum and prostate gland. Lycopene is equally vital for the eye health.

Soybeans contain isoflavones – weak, hormonelike substances that help to prevent aging due to hormone imbalances. They are also believed to be helpful against hormone sensitive cancers such as those of the breast and prostate gland. Aim to eat a soya product at least twice a week – if not every day.

Garlic has antioxidant, antiseptic, antibacterial and antiviral properties. While it is used to help treat intestinal, respiratory and skin infections, its utmost health service is to help maintain a healthy heart and circulation. Garlic can reduce high blood pressure, lower levels of harmful blood fats (LDL – cholesterol and triglycerides), reduce blood stickiness, dilate blood vessels and improve peripheral blood flow.

Nuts and seeds are rich in vitamin E, selenium, zinc and essential fatty acids. Try to consume at least 30g daily e.g. sprinkled on salads, vegetables and cereals. Selenium is needed to produce antibodies, for healthy skin and thyroid function as well as being vital for the action of many important antioxidant enzymes in the body. The richest dietary source of selenium is Brazil nuts. Walnuts are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that can help reduce the cholesterol level.

Live bio yoghurt, which contains friendly probiotic bacteria, helps to boost intestinal health, and aids digestion and the absorption of nutrients from the gut. Probiotic bacteria have been shown to boost immunity and help guard against some allergic conditions such as eczema.

- Choose organic fruit and vegetables

- Eat fresh produce, with a day of purchase

- Eat three servings of fresh fruit per day

- Eat three servings of raw or lightly steamed vegetables per day

- Aim for color on your plate – mix dark green, orange, yellow and red vegetables as much as possible

- Consider making liquidized soups from raw vegetables and just warming through before serving

- Avoid foods that are smoked, pickled or salted

- Eat a low fat diet that provides few calories than you need so you slowly lose any excess weight

- Eat few foods of animal origin, especially red meat and replace with fish and soybeans

- Eat more wholegrain products

- Cut out all polyunsaturated fats, margarine, vegetables shortening and hydrogenated fats – only use olive oil or rapeseed oil

- Experiment with a semi-fast once a week in which you just eat small amounts of fruit/vegetables plus mineral water during the day

- Consider taking an antioxidant supplement

- The foods that provide the strongest anti-ageing effect are those that contain antioxidants which protect against free radicals