Seven anti-aging miracle foods
By Emily Dorn (LHJ)
Updated: 2006-03-27 16:18  Red Beans
All beans are gold mines of age-defying nutrients, but
research shows that red beans hoard the greatest amount of antioxidants -- key
components in the quest for prolonged youth. These substances, such as vitamins
D, E, and A, are believed to repair damaged cells in the body, and in doing so
might avert the development of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's, and cancer. Red
beans are also packed with another longevity champion -- folic acid -- a
dementia preventative.
Serving size: 1/2 cup
Calorie count: 310
Quick
tip: Opt for dried beans to get the most out of this legume; canned beans often
contain too much salt.
 Flax Seed
It has been estimated that 30 to 40
percent of all cancers can be prevented by lifestyle and dietary measures alone,
and flax is the gastronomic superstar of deterrence. The seed also promotes
youthful, supple skin because of its high concentration of oils that, like
salmon's omega-3s, lower the amount of inflammation in the body.
Serving
size: 2 tablespoons
Calorie count: 118
Quick tip: Sprinkle your daily
serving of ground flax over cereal or oatmeal for an easy breakfast
supplement.
 Quinoa
"We tend not to eat as much when we consume foods that are
high in fiber," says Moores, because they fill us up with fewer calories. The
result? Consistently ingesting less helps us maintain a healthy weight and
decreases our chances of developing diabetes. Light and fluffy quinoa
(pronounced keen-wah) has the dynamite nutritional content of the healthiest
grains, but it is actually a plant seed, and it's jam-packed with protein, iron,
B vitamins, and minerals, too.
Serving size: 1/4 cup
Calorie count:
about 159
Quick tip: Instead of cooking quinoa in water, use low-sodium
vegetable broth -- it will impart a rich flavor without adding fat.
 Kale
Although often passed over in favor of its cousin cabbage,
kale's crisp, dark leaves are bursting with micronutrients, potassium, and
carotenoids, all essential for lowering risks of heart disease and even
cataracts. Low-calorie kale is also calcium-rich, and its high concentration of
vitamin A has been linked with a reduced incidence of cancer.
Serving size:
1 hearty cup
Calorie count: about 34
Quick tip: Combine steamed kale with
something sweet, such as lightly sauteed onions, to offset its slightly bitter
taste.
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