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Anti-Aging Vegetables
Written by Kristen Hicks
about the author
3 minute readLast updated April 20, 2023
There’s a reason that “eat your vegetables” is a familiar phrase in American culture. Veggies might not be everyone’s favorite food, but they’re some of the most important ingredients required for a healthy diet. Children may turn up their noses at brussels sprouts, but seniors can’t afford to avoid vegetables in their regular diet. The nutrients they provide translate into real health and lifestyle benefits. Explore a few you should try to keep in regular rotation in your diet.
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Eggplant
Eggplants contain an antioxidant called nasunin that protects brain cells from damage. They can help keep your mind and memory stronger longer. The amount of nasunin in eggplants with darker skin is especially high, so keep an eye out for the color of those you buy, and keep the skin on when you eat them for best results. Eggplants can also help bring down cholesterol levels and improve blood flow. That makes them good for the heart and the brain, both of which have a pretty important role to play in your day-to-day enjoyment of life. More veggies that are good for mind and memory: For even more brain-boosting benefits, consider broccoli, which is packed with vitamin K that’s good for improving brainpower. Tomatoes have antioxidants like lycopene that are also known to help.
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Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a powerful ingredient for combating disease. They can help strengthen your white blood cells, which are then better at warding off sickness. Some believe they can help reduce tumor growth as well. Mushrooms can be used as a tool to boost your immune system and give you more sick-free days. More veggies for a stronger immune system: Asparagus and broccoli are both packed with antioxidants and vitamins that also build up your immune system.
Spinach
Remember when you were young and full of energy? You may not be able to count on the kind of full, active days that were once the norm, but you can do something simple to up your energy: eat spinach. Spinach is rich in iron, which makes sure your body tissues get the oxygen they need. It also gives a good dose of vitamin C, which helps your body recover more quickly from the signs of stress, which cause fatigue. More energy-boosting veggies: Being a complex carbohydrate, sweet potatoes have a reputation for increasing energy. Snacking on edamame can also help, as it’s high in fiber and protein.
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Kale
Not having enough calcium can lead to reduced bone mass. That can have some pretty serious health implications, turning minor falls into medical emergencies. Luckily, kale provides both Vitamin K and Calcium. More veggies that strengthen bones: Pretty much any leafy greens are good for this, so the list of alternatives is long and includes collard greens, turnip greens, okra, Chinese cabbage, dandelion greens, mustard greens, and broccoli.
Beets
With that deep purple coloring, you have to figure beets deliver a strong dose of nutrients. They’re high in fiber and iron, making them useful for improving digestion. Between the various vitamins and antioxidants they offer, some research shows they can help fight off cancers, reduce inflammation, and lower your blood pressure. More vegetables for better digestion: Zucchini, artichokes, and peas are all high in fiber and can help you keep your digestive system working right. If you’re not crazy about the taste of vegetables on their own, have no fear. The internet is packed to the brim with recipes that will help you turn these veggie ingredients into something delicious. The health benefits will make a dietary shift well worth it.
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