I first became interested in nutrition when I began competing at the age of 35. That world helped me to understand macro and micro nutrients as well as food timing and sensitivities. After I had been competing for a couple years I realized food can also be healing. You often have to restore your metabolism after strict dieting so this became a necessity for me.

Now over five years after first stepping on stage the first time, I am 40 years old and a mother to a 4 year old. However with food and exercise I have found a way to maintain my youthful appearance. That being said, there are many foods that have health benefits. The following four foods are ones I eat regularly that I have seen many benefits from.

4 FOODS THAT WILL KEEP YOU LOOKING YOUNG

Asparagus

This veggie is very nutrient dense. It’s high in both minerals and vitamins as well as amino acids. Asparagus is amazing at anti-aging. Also, for those that drink, it also has the added benefit of protecting hard working liver cells.

How I Eat it: 5 Spears cooked al dente alongside a protein like fish or lean turkey.

 

Avocado

Regularly eating avocado makes skin, hair and nails look younger. It contains over 20 nutrients and antioxidants. This includes 5 anti-inflammatories.

How I Eat It: On a salad or rice cake.

 

 

Cucumbers

These vegetables are not only extremely low in calories but they also keep your skin dewy and are high in silica. This means they help to keep connective tissue (muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage and bone) healthy. Cucumber is best used cold in salads, juices or gazpacho.

How I Eat It: A low calorie dessert is sliced cucumber with cinnamon topped with a little no calorie Walden’s Pancake Syrup.

Sweet Potatoes

With anti-inflammatory and protective carotenes, sweet potatoes making skin and muscles youthful and can help to regulate your blood sugar.

How I Eat It: Baked with a little cinnamon alongside lean beef or turkey.