Fountain of Youth

Good News for Popcorn Lovers!

The favourite snack of every film buff has anti-ageing properties, but it has to be prepared healthily first, in corn oil and with little to no salt and butter. According to a recent study by the University of Scranton, Pennsylvania, healthy popcorn contains more antioxidant substances called ‘polyphenols’ than previously thought. Polyphenols are effective in reducing cellular decay that occurs when someone ages.

Besides popcorn, here are three of the top anti-ageing foods:

Fresh Greens

This is a no-brainer. Greens—especially cruciferous veggies like broccoli and cabbage—are chockfull of folate, calcium and other nutrients that can help prevent age-related ailments and cognitive decline.

Fish 

They’re not just full of protein, but also omega-3, a fatty acid that has anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate rheumatoid arthritis. Fish is also good for the brain: it puts people in a healthier and more vigorous mood, and can lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Tomatoes 

These juicy red fruits contain lycopene, an antioxidant that’ll help you maintain your youthful complexion and skin texture. Besides that, lycopene also reduces the risk of certain types of cancer, including prostate, lung and stomach.

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock. This article first appeared in NATURA magazine issue No.2. Find NATURA at Eu Yan Sang retail outlets, newsstands and major bookstores in Singapore.