Anti-aging super foods

With spring hopefully around the corner and everyone taking their winter coats, toques and general hibernation wear off for theyear, I thought it would be a good time to talk about anti-aging.

Spring is always a time of new beginnings where most want to refocus on health and looking more youthful. Anti-aging regimes are most successful and long-term if done from the inside out – healthy, properly functioning organs and enzyme systems equal healthy looking exteriors.

Here are some anti-aging super foods to introduce to your diet to get that glow from the inside out:

• Cruciferous vegetables (Broccoli, Cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, Cabbage, Bok Choy)

Benefits: this group contains sulforaphane, which stimulates enzymes in the body that detoxify oxidants before they cause cellular damage. Cellular damage is where the aging process is expedited, so these delicious veggies help to keep that at bay.

• SMASH fish (Salmon, Mackerel, Anchovies, Sardines, Herring)

Benefits: Highest in Omega 3. This group improves joint mobility, skin elasticity, vision, cognition and heart function. If you are not a fish eater you can substitute with an Omega 3 supplement in capsule or liquid form.

• Coconut Oil

Benefits: a saturated fat, but it is processed easily by the body. It is amazing for the brain and delays the appearance of wrinkles and sagging of skin. It is easy to introduce into coffee, smoothies or baked goods.

• Collagen

Benefits: strengthens connective tissue, tendons and ligaments and also the elasticity of the skin. Collagen also benefits protein genesis which in turn helps hair and nail growth.

• Tremella

Benefits: this medicinal mushroom is adaptogenic and benefits the system by detoxifying and purifying from the inside out. This results in a glow that emanates through the complexion.

Kate Hunter is a naturopathic doctor and owner of The Creemore Apothecary.