12 Drinks That Minimize The Signs Of Aging

Dr. Verma|March 12, 2015 9:21 am EST

Everybody is looking for the fountain of youth, and while we are searching for that, we are unfortunately not going about it the right way most of the time. There is nothing wrong with wanting to always look your best, and with wanting to preserve your skin.

12 Drinks That Minimize the Signs of Aging (Slideshow)

However, we have to understand that slowing down the aging process works from the inside out. While there are numerous ways to cosmetically enhance our looks, the truth of the matter is that if we don't nurture our insides, this will eventually be reflected on the outside.

Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol intake, drug use, poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, overexposure to the sun, consumption of sugary sodas and high fructose corn syrup foods — these all accelerate the aging process.

So, how is it that we can age elegantly, vivaciously, and optimally? To start with, it is always wise to find a good integrative physician who knows how to test for hormones, micronutrients, and neurotransmitters. Because aging is natural and inevitable, we should all endeavor to do so healthily and gracefully.

Here, we can explore the different drinks that can help slow down the hands of time and give you a youthful appearance while also making you healthy from the inside out, which will be reflected by your skin, hair, and nails.

Of course you can't just take one drink and expect a change in your skin. But if you regularly incorporate these healthy drinks into your diet, and cut out corn syrup-filled foods and drinks that can speed along the aging process, you will become healthier from the inside out, and this will be echoed in your appearance.

Fresh-Squeezed Grapefruit Juice

Citrus fruits pack tremendous amounts of vitamin C, which allow for excellent maintenance and production of collagen, the substance that allows skin to be flexible and strong. As we age, collagen production decreases, leading the way to wrinkles and dry skin, both of which are unfortunate signs of aging. Grapefruit also contains spermidine, which helps cellular growth.

Almond Milk Smoothie with Bananas and Avocados

Almond milk contains vitamins A, D, and E, all of which are fat-soluble so they promote healthy skin. The calcium and protein in almond milk are beneficial for strong nails and hair. Avocados are loaded with monounsaturated fats that promote vitamin absorption, leading to young, supple, and radiant skin. Bananas are rich in vitamins A, B, and E, all of which are excellent for your skin as well. Throw in some hemp, flax, or chia seeds for an extra boost, blend it all together and enjoy the hearty goodness, all the while knowing it is doing your body more than good.

Dr. Deepa Verma of Synergistiq Integrative Health believes that healthy and holistic living is the key to happiness and aging gracefully. Follow her on Twitter @DrDeepaVerma and subscribe to her Youtube Channel.

This story was originally published May 9, 2014.