A plant-based diet can slow ageing

Whole grains & vegetables can keep your body young

Ageing is a natural process, the impact and speed of which is determined at the DNA stage. Each of us has 46 strands of DNA in each of our cells coiled into chromosomes with a ‘cap’ at the end of the DNA strand, called telomere. And as we age, these telomeres are shortened.

Many factors can cause a shortening of the telomeres like a poor diet, excessive consumption of meat, white sugar or deep fried foods, exposure to toxins etc. However, research shows that a whole food and plant-based diet can significantly slow down ageing. Here’s how...

• A diet rich in fruit and vegetables ensures a continuous boost of antioxidants, vitamin C, beta-carotene and lysine. These can help boost natural collagen and keep the skin looking youthful.
• Green leafy vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and dietary fibre, which is beneficial in reducing the impact of inflammation and prevents age-related macular degeneration.
• Fruit, vegetables, wholegrain, lentils, beans, nuts and seeds also provide protective benefits against lifestyle diseases like cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease etc.
• Cruciferous vegetables and beans are great for brain health.
• A plant-based diet is easier to digest and aids in the better assimilation of nutrients.

(The author is a nutrition expert, Curefit)