Food: Vegetables Can Help You Look Younger
Vegetables are extremely nutrient-dense and very low in calories.
They contain antioxidants that help reduce the risk of heart disease, cataracts and cancer.
Many vegetables are also high in carotenoids like beta carotene. These can protect against sun radiation and free radicals, both of which can lead to skin aging.
Some of the best sources of beta carotene are carrots, pumpkin and sweet potatoes.
Many vegetables are also rich in vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and has strong antioxidant effects.
In one study, when people were given 180 mg of vitamin C daily for 4 weeks, their skin’s antioxidant activity increased by 37%.
Vegetables with the highest vitamin C content include leafy greens, bell peppers, tomatoes and broccoli.
In another study, researchers measured elasticity and other skin qualities in more than 700 Japanese women. They found that those who ate more green and yellow vegetables had fewer wrinkles.
Vegetables provide sun protection and may prevent free radical damage to skin. This is largely due to their strong antioxidant effects.
