Have you ever thought of living to be 90 or 100 years old? By that time, will you be in good health condition? What if you live long only to be ailed with chronic diseases, and need caretaking? How can we make sure we are able to take care of ourselves, move around freely, and stay away from chronic diseases as we age?

A growing body of literature and research suggests that getting enough vegetables and fruits every day may be one of the best ways to extend your health span.

Vegetables and fruits are rich in antioxidants, dietary fiber, and trace minerals such as potassium, which help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart disease, hypertension, stroke, etc.) and cancers, which are the leading causes of death.

Oxidation is a mechanism within the body whereby the body automatically generates “free radicals” which react with other molecules in the body to cause cellular inflammation, damage, aging and other diseases. If the body is allowed to continue to be attacked by free radicals, it will accelerate the aging process and affect healthy functioning of organs. Antioxidants can reduce the amount of free radicals in the body and protect the body cells from damage.

There are many types of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, lycopene, copper, zinc, selenium, iron, etc., which can help to remove excessive free radicals from the body, thus achieving the effects of anti-aging and long-term health.

The following are some examples of foods that contain strong antioxidants:
• Anthocyanins: Eggplant, blueberries, strawberries, grapes, black beans, black rice, tomatoes
• Lycopene: tomatoes, red watermelon, grapefruit
• Selenium: Seafood and meat are important sources, including sardines, shrimp, and turkey; other sources include garlic, wood ear mushrooms and other morels, eggs, and cashews
• Catechins: Green tea, oolong tea, dark chocolate, raisins

In order to stay healthy, steer away from diseases and live a longer, happier life, you should start paying attention to your daily intake of vegetables and fruits.

All body types, conditions and nutritional needs vary. If you would like to know more about what your body needs, please feel free to contact Humansa’s health management team.