Food that’ll help you live to 100
A MEDITERRANEAN diet isn’t the only secret to living a longer life.
Eating red hot chilli peppers could help you live longer and prevent a stroke or heart disease. Over a 26-year study, those who ate them were found to by 13% less likely to die.
Scientists at Vermont university in the US found that capsaicin in the chillies has a positive effect on our cells.
Anti-ageing nutritionist Rick Hay says: “You can live to 100 with the foods already in your kitchen, you just don’t know it.”
Here’s what else will help you reach a ripe old age...
Leafy greens
KALE, broccoli and spinach help to target proteins called sirtuin to slow cell ageing and boost your metabolism to burn fat. Rick says: “Spinach is fabulous. It’s also packed full of magnesium and iron for energy.”
Beetroot
THIS superfood releases nitric oxide into the bloodstream, making blood vessels expand and lowering blood pressure.
“They say beetroot was Leicester City’s secret weapon when they won the Premiership title last season,” reveals Rick.
Garlic and onion
THEY are rich in sulphur which aids muscle function and insulin production and helps produce the cleansing antioxidant glutathione.
Rick says: “Many have sluggish digestion. If you cleanse the body properly you’re on the right track.” RICH in Omega 3, they protect the heart and brain and fight cancer, arthritis and kidney disease. Rick says: “I’m a fan of fish oil supplements. If you can’t eat enough fish, they are a great way to top up Omega 3.”
Chickpeas and lentils
A STUDY found eating 3% more plant-based proteins like chickpeas and lentils cuts death risk by 10%. “People think chicken and beef when they think protein – and then eat too much,” says Rick.
Turmeric
YELLOWY turmeric may help to prevent changes in DNA of cells that lead to cancer, asthma, eczema and depression.
Rick reveals: “A biochemist instilled in me that anything that stains your fingers any colour is good for you.”
Cinnamon
THIS is a great way to regulate your blood sugar by lowering your insulin THE favourite tea of health-conscious stars like Gwyneth Paltrow because it is contains the most cancerfighting catechins.