‘The best anti-ageing ingredients and how to consume more of them’

Oct 26, 2020
What you eat can have a huge impact on your health. Source: Getty.

Nowadays, there are so many products and creams on the market that claim to reverse ageing from the outside, whether it be reducing wrinkles or shrinking pores. However, some of the most disruptive impacts of ageing are to do with what’s going on inside your body.

The good news is, a balanced diet and exercising regularly are the most important tools when it comes to fighting ageing. Below I’ve listed the best anti-ageing ingredients.

Quercetin

This is a powerful antioxidant found in many fruits and veggies. It protects against tissue injury, skin structure and oxidative damage and has been found to support the immune system. You can find it in many fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, seeds and grains, red onions and kale.

Silica

This mineral is important for collagen production, improves skin strength and elasticity as well as nail and hair growth. It’s found in melons, cucumbers, artichokes, asparagus, dandelion (which is often used to make tea) and leafy greens.

Marine collagen

Marine collagen reduces wrinkle formation, increases skin elasticity and moisture. It can be found in fish skin and bones and shellfish, so why not whip up a delicious broth! As a supplement, this is further broken down to aid with digestion and absorption.

Aloe vera

Turns out, aloe vera has digestive properties and is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal conditions. The gel from the leaf can be added to iced drinks and salads. Of course, don’t eat the leaf itself.

Astaxanthin

This antioxidant supports skin integrity, structure, firmness and overall skin health. It can be found in algae, yeast, salmon, trout, krill, shrimp and crayfish.

Turmeric

It’s no surprise this powerful powerful anti-inflammatory spice can help in the fight against ageing. It helps to support digestive discomfort and relieves symptoms of gas and indigestion. Add as a dried spice to your favourite curries, rice dishes or stir-fries.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is antioxidant that supports wound healing, bone health and supports the production of neurotransmitters (the body’s chemical messengers). It can be found in broccoli, cauliflower, green and red peppers, sweet and white potatoes, and tomatoes.

Siberian ginseng

Traditionally used as an adaptogen (a select group of herbs that support the body’s natural ability to deal with stress), Siberian ginseng can also increase energy levels and reduce fatigue. It’s mostly found in supplements and teas.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant which helps reduce free radicals (unstable atoms that can damage cells, causing illness and ageing) in the body. It can be found in sunflower seeds, almonds, peanuts, some oils, avocados, spinach and butternut.

L-Glutamine

L-Glutamine is a type of amino acid that supports gastrointestinal health. You’ll find it in beef, chicken, fish, dairy products, eggs, vegetables like beans, beetroots, cabbage, spinach, carrots and parsley and even some vegetable juices.

L-Glycine

L-Glycine is a type of amino acid that can improve quality of sleep and other neurological functions. It’s found in a range of everyday foods, like meat, fish, dairy products and legumes.

IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.