Adding These Healthy Foods to Your Diet Will Make You Look Younger

Everyone wants to know the secret to staying youthful forever. Unfortunately, there’s no way to look as fresh-faced as a teenager forever. Even the best anti-aging potions can’t keep you from getting older or developing wrinkles, but your diet can play a pivotal role in slowing down the aging process. To give yourself a more youthful look, make sure these six foods are a regular part of your diet.

1. Blueberries 

Blueberries are at it again with another bonus you can add to its list of benefits. According to Self, this is one fruit you’ll want to snack on if you want younger looking skin. Not only do they increase circulation, which helps your skin glow, they also contain antioxidants that protect your skin from harmful free radicals that would otherwise damage the collagen. Since collagen is what keeps your skin firm, this means you can stave off any sagging.

2. Pomegranate 

According to The Huffington Post, pomegranates are packed with tons of vitamins and minerals that will keep your skin young. The fruit contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation, help replenish dry and dull skin, and also protect cells from being damaged by UV rays. This means a lower chance of developing wrinkles and age spots. Not to mention, pomegranates are seriously delicious.

3. Oranges 

Vitamin C might be most known for it’s ability to promote a healthy immune system, but it also provides skin benefits. Healthline says vitamin C is needed to produce collagen, which helps keep your skin looking young. It may also repair damaged skin, prevent dryness, and can possibly reduce wrinkles. Self’s Nutrition Data shows one small orange offers 85% of your recommended daily vitamin C needs, so having just one a day can give you a huge nutrition boost.

4. Bell peppers 

Fun fact: Oranges aren’t the only food that’s rich in vitamin C. According to Self’s Nutrition Data, a 1-cup serving of chopped green bell pepper actually contains 200% of your daily vitamin C needs. So if you’re looking to really boost your intake, go for some peppers. For a satisfying snack, pair some sliced bell pepper with a bit of hummus. You’ll score the skin benefits, plus the added protein and fiber will help keep you full.

5. Walnuts 

Walnuts are one of the healthiest nuts you can eat, thanks to a stellar nutritional makeup. Not only are they a great source of protein, but they’re also rich in omega-3 fatty acids. WebMD says these fatty acids are helpful for your skin because they keep the cell membrane healthy, blocking against harmful substances and allowing nutrients to pass through. A healthy membrane is also able to hold onto more water, giving you softer, wrinkle-free skin.

6. Dark chocolate 

Good news: Chocolate really can be good for you. According to Reader’s Digest, dark chocolate is rich in flavanoids that can help minimize sun damage, increase blood flow to the skin, and improve your complexion. Not to mention, dark chocolate also promotes cardiovascular health. Cleveland Clinic says the sweet stuff can improve cholesterol levels, so it really is a smart choice. But remember, not just any type of chocolate will do. The same Cleveland Clinic story says you’ll want to go for bars made of at least 70% cocoa beans.