A Health Expert Shares 5 Foods That Make Him Feel Younger
Did you know your food can actually make you feel younger?
Longevity expert and doctor Mark Hyman, MD, is a 63-year-old practicing family physician and best-selling author of Young Forever: The Secrets to Living Your Longest, Healthiest Life. He’s an internationally recognized leader, speaker, educator, and advocate in the field of Functional Medicine.
He also has advice on how to keep your body young!
Dr. Hyman shared his daily routine and eating habits on his TikTok account, including five foods he swears by to keep his biological age 20 years younger. Because of their incredible health benefits, he says these foods help you live longer, age well, and reduce the risk of chronic disease.
Here are the five foods Dr. Hyman refers to as “medicine” for ensuring a long, healthy life.
1. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables include those like broccoli, brussels sprouts, kale, and cabbage. They are rich in phytonutrients, which help reduce inflammation and the risk of cancer. They also aid in digestion thanks to their magnesium, folate, and fiber content.
Dr. Hyman eats a cup or two of cruciferous vegetables every day.
You can also try adding the top 20 best anti-inflammatory foods to your diet.
2. Olive Oil
Dr. Hyman stresses the importance of “good fats,” including extra virgin olive oil, which he uses in his cooking each day. Olive oil contains antioxidants known for reducing the risk of chronic health conditions and heart disease.
“You need to make sure you get lots of good fats, and olive oil is a great way to do it,” says Hyman.
3. Nuts
Nuts are full of healthy fats and a great source of protein. They also contain vitamins and minerals your body needs, like magnesium, folate, vitamin E, and selenium.
Hyman says nuts like cashews, almonds, and walnuts have been associated with a reduced risk for diabetes and can improve your health and life span. He recommends a handful a day.
4. Berries
Dr. Hyman explains that berries (especially blueberries and blackberries) contain a large amount of antioxidants and phytochemicals, which can improve longevity. They are also important for maintaining gut health, fighting inflammation, and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Grab a handful every day!
5. Green Tea
While this one is a drink rather than a food, it’s still a key part of Hyman’s longevity diet! Green tea can reduce harmful oxidative stress, which can negatively impact brain health.
Green tea also contains antioxidants that protect the brain from disease and promote healthy aging. Try a cup to start your day!