10 Super Foods for an Anti-Aging Diet

Losing weight is rough, and trying to adhere suddenly to a strict diet that eliminates all of your favorite foods makes it even rougher! Super foods are nutritious options that are often over looked in popular diet plans. Substituting high calorie, fat filled foods with super foods is a great way to lose weight and make you feel a whole bunch better, and is also a great addition to your anti-aging goals!

1. Sardines. These tiny fish are loaded with protein and Omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, they’re low in mercury. Substitute sardines for anchovies in your recipes, or chop them up with bell peppers and fresh herbs to make a tasty spread.
2. Tarragon. Use this power herb in place of salt when making marinades and salad dressings. You’ll cut your sodium intake and experience less bloating.
3. Parmesan. Leave the low-fat, processed cheese behind in the dairy aisle and get the real thing. Grate a little over roasted vegetables or snack on a small, one-ounce portion with an apple. Its powerful flavor will leave you satisfied after just one serving.
4. Avocados. Packed with heart-healthy, monounsaturated fat, avocados leave you feeling full, and is the perfect substitute for mayo on a sandwich.
5. Olive Oil. Like avocados, olive oil is high in monounsaturated fats, plus it has anti-inflammatory properties. Substitute olive oil for butter and margarine, and drizzle a little on your salads.
6. Buckwheat Pasta. High in fiber, buckwheat pasta also contains protein. Use this instead of regular pasta and you’ll be satiated faster, and stay full longer, making it harder for you to overeat.
7. Yogurt. With its trifecta of carbs, protein and fat, yogurt is the ideal food for any time of day! Substitute low-fat, plain yogurt in place of mayo in chicken and potato salads, or try low-fat Greek yogurt as a snack.
8. Almond Butter. Another low-glycemic index food, substitute almond butter for fatty spreads on sandwiches and bread, or add a dollop to oatmeal for extra flavor and protein.
9. Salmon. Packed with heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps build muscle and decrease body fat. Choosing wild salmon is beneficial because it often contains fewer pollutants.
10. Kale. Just like spinach, kale is a nutrient powerhouse filled with fiber, iron and calcium. Add chopped kale to cooked beans, or toss some into a quinoa stir-fry.