Foods to Keep You Looking 10 Years Younger (Trust Me!)

 
It can be difficult to tell a woman’s age.

Have you ever met a woman whom you’re sure is much older than you, and you find out that she’s 5 years younger?

Or you’re certain your boss is the same age as you, and you discover that she’s 10 years older?

It happens in those magic years from 35 to 55, when you begin to wear your lifestyle on your face.

Those are the years where if you haven’t been taking care of your nutrition, meaning the food that goes in your mouth, it begins to show not only in your health, but your skin, your hair and your nails seem to age overnight.

The good news for your ageless beauty, is that this is reversible. As with your health, and inflammatory symptoms like sinus, migraines, and early arthritis that diminish or disappear by upping your nutritional game, your looks can improve as well.

Part of the problem is that many women are still fat-phobic.

They work out, and think they’re eating well, but their bodies are starving for moisture and fat. Avoiding fats for fear of getting “fat” is unhealthy and unflattering.

Your body needs healthy fats to function properly, to digest your food, to lubricate your joints, and your skin and hair and nails do too.

Meet the age proof beauty foods.

These foods are not only wonderful for your insides, but they’re a great option for your external self as well.  You can use each of these “cupboard remedies” on your skin or hair, and avoid the toxins and heavy price tags of the department store cosmetic brands…. at least once in a while.

I shared these tips yesterday on ABC’s Let’s Talk Live show in Washington, DC.

1) Avocado
Avocado is high in Vitamins. A, B, C, E, and potassium. It also contains protein, and I consider it for many reasons, the perfect food. Add avocado to your salads, enjoy it sliced on a piece of sprouted grain toast with a drizzle of olive oil, or in a chocolate smoothie.

For your skin and hair, try mixing avocado with olive oil for an instant hair conditioner or facial mask.

2) Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil is anti- microbial, anti- fungal, and is said to promote weight loss, and a healthy heart.

Try using coconut oil for your high heat cooking, (omnivore alert: it makes a great fried egg!) or for tasty raw, chocolate treats. (see my chocolate truffle recipe)

For your skin; spoons some into a small mason jar and take it into the shower with you.  The oil will liquify, and after your shower, smooth it over your entire body before gently toweling off. Add lavender essential oil for a calming effect.  Coconut oil will not stain your sheets or pajamas, but use caution to not slip!

For your hair; add scoops of coconut oil to the ends of your hair or anywhere it feels dry, and cover with a cap.  Wash 30 minutes later for a gorgeous, soft and silky feel.

3) Almonds/ Nuts
Nuts are a great source of protein and loaded with vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium. Adding nuts to a salad, or as a healthy snack is my top choice. If you’re concerned about gaining weight, then parcel them into small bags so you don’t overindulge in these hard to resist treats. Vary your nuts to get an assortment of all they have to offer.

For your skin; grind some almonds in a coffee grinder, and combine with raw honey, and a splash of lemon for a  face scrub that will brighten and smooth your complexion.

4) Olives/ Olive Oil
Olives are high in Vitamin E and antioxidants, and at the core of the Mediterranean diet. (and you know how well they age)
Olives are also a low calorie food, and make a great snack, or added to your antipasto. Try chopping as a tepenade for a holiday treat, and serve with crudite. Use caution if you’re on a low sodium diet, and buy olive or water cured olives, preferably organic.

For your hair, olive oil makes an amazing conditioner.  Try freshening it with an essential oil like a wild orange for a mood lift while you wait.  I love doing this and sitting in the sun for 20 minutes, so that I can get my Vitamin D and allow my hair to soak up the goodness.

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