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Eat Your Way to Prolonged Youth

Expert Suggests Smart Diet Boosts Vitality

Baby boomers seem willing to try anything to slow the physical aspects of growing older, from lotions to pills to home remedies. A new survey reports that 25 percent of boomers would even put off retirement five years if it meant they'd never have wrinkles. The survey, released by the Florida Department of Citrus, sheds light on Americans' top aging concerns and how we are thirsty for ways to feel and look younger.

According to Cheryl Forberg, an expert on anti-aging nutrition and consulting dietitian to NBC's The Biggest Loser fitness reality show, the secret to prolonged youth is as close as the kitchen.

"Baby Boomers can beautify themselves inside and out by selecting foods rich in nutrients," says Forberg, who also authored Stop the Clock! Cooking: Defy Aging – Eat the Foods You Love (Avery, 2003). "Envision the grocery store as a virtual medicine cabinet of vitamins and minerals. Have fun mixing and matching favorite items to create a tasty, versatile menu that provides benefits for the body inside and out."

Forberg recommends the following nutrients for common aging concerns:

Keeping skin radiant is top of mind for baby boomers. Collagen breakdown in the skin may contribute to the formation of wrinkles. Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for the production of collagen. One serving of 100 percent grapefruit juice contains 72 milligrams of vitamin C, more than a full day's supply. For the 30 percent of baby boomers concerned about weight gain, this juice is fat free with less than 100 calories in each 8-ounce serving. More than 40 percent of Americans find having less energy to be the most unpleasant aspect of aging. A poor diet is often the culprit in lagging energy levels. To stay energized, avoid processed foods and sugary soft drinks. Add foods rich in iron such as lentils, lean red meats in moderate amounts and spinach. This mineral delivers energy to every cell in the body. Drink plenty of water and limit alcohol intake to one drink for women and two drinks for men.

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