For beauty and health: diet against age-related diseases

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Many scientists and doctors believe that the key to healthy longevity is a balanced diet. For the prevention of diseases characteristic of the elderly, it is recommended to regularly consume certain products. They form the basis of the so-called Mediterranean diet.

The Mediterranean diet includes fresh fish, vegetables, lots of greens and olive oil. The doctor told what useful substances these products contain and how they help fight against age-related diseases.

Plant food

Polyphenols contained in plants contribute to reducing risks of heart attack, stroke, arterial hypertension and inflammatory processes. Fiber normalizes the work of the gastrointestinal tract.

Multi-colored vegetables and fruits

The color of the fruits indicates a high concentration of certain phytonutrients. For example, the orange color indicates the content of beta-carotene. Carotenoids have endocrine-regulating activity. Green products contain a large amount of substances necessary for the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system: vitamin K, folates, magnesium, potassium and dietary nitrates. Purple vegetables and fruits contain flavonoids that help improve memory and mood.

Fish and olive oil

These foods contain high amounts of unsaturated fatty acids, which reduce inflammation and nourish cell membranes. In people who regularly include fatty fish and oil in their menu, blood pressure levels normalize, insulin sensitivity increases, lipid profile improves, markers of inflammation, oxidative stress, and carotid artery atherosclerosis decrease.