It is known that following a Mediterranean diet is a healthy way of life.
Based on the traditional cuisines of Greece, Italy and other countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, it usually consists of many fruits and vegetables, fish, beans, cereals, nuts and vegetable oils.
Studies have shown that eating this way is related to good heart health and can reduce the risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
Research has also suggested that people who follow a Mediterranean diet closely may live longer and be less likely to gain weight.
It is not surprising, therefore, that many of us strive to live a more Med-inspired lifestyle. But can a diet slow down the signs of aging? The answer, therefore, to top international chef Susy Massetti, is yes.
Susy was born in Italy and her work has taken her to Europe, the United States and, more recently, the Middle East. She cooked for Hollywood movie stars and royalty and was the personal chef of a former Qatar prime minister and also of multimillionaire tycoons.
It is not surprising that many of us strive to live a more Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle. But can a diet slow down the signs of aging? The answer, accordingly, to top international chef Susy Massetti (pictured) is yes
Susy owns and runs a sustainable organic farm where her dreams of locally sourced locally sourced ingredients came true recently.
Aging is caused by several degenerative factors in which our cells suffer slow oxidative damage, but by adapting to a Mediterranean diet we can look and feel younger, according to Susy.
Speaking to FEMAIL, he explained: “What you put on your body is very important: the famous saying“ you are what you eat ”is said for a reason.
“Because I am Italian, I am a huge supporter of the Mediterranean lifestyle and the many health benefits of the typical Med diet. All the dishes in my restaurants are based on rustic, honest and organic foods for this reason. .
“A diet rich in antioxidants, easily absorbable nutrients and healthy fats can have profound effects on our body, especially our largest organ, our skin.”
Here he reveals his top five anti-aging foods and how they can help you turn the clock.
Aging is caused by several degenerative factors in which our cells suffer slow oxidative damage, but by adapting to a Mediterranean diet we can look and feel younger, according to Susy.
1. Extra virgin olive oil cold pressed to regain the glow
A high quality olive oil is the most important oil you should cook with. Buying olive oil that includes compressed oils means that it consumes the closest to the food source when it is extracted from the first press.
This means all high quality nutrients; anti-inflammatory compounds and potent antioxidants are preserved.
How it helps with aging: The antioxidants in high quality olive oil help stop premature aging by preventing the production of free radicals and protecting cells from age-related damage and will help you get naturally glowing skin. .
Anti-inflammatory properties also help reduce swelling. This is a very easy dietary change to make without any effort.
The antioxidants in high quality olive oil help stop premature aging by preventing the production of free radicals and protecting cells from age-related damage and will help you get naturally glowing skin.
2. Fish that increase collagen to stay young
Fish is a staple of any good quality Mediterranean diet. From the age of 25, collagen production begins to break down, causing wrinkles and sagging skin.
However, omega-3 fatty fish, such as sardines, contain collagen that can be extracted from bones, fins and skin.
In addition to several anti-inflammatory properties to keep our cells flexible and strong, sardines also contain nutrients like vitamin D that we can deplete as we age, as well as essential amino acids.
How it helps with aging: Collagen can help slow down the signs of aging by reducing fine lines and helping to increase its elasticity.
Amino acids can also improve skin texture, helping to adjust and maintain a smooth appearance. My grandmother, who was also a chef, used to have fun with sardines as a wonderful meal. If you’re in a hurry, toasted sardines are quick and easy to make!
Omega-3 fatty fish, such as sardines, contain collagen that can be extracted from bones, fins and skin.
3. Reduce fine lines and wrinkles with sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are very popular in a Mediterranean diet. Eating more complex carbohydrates can help balance blood sugar levels better than normal potatoes, which can lead to an increase in blood sugar and insulin due to the way we process food and how it happens. for our body. Baked, fried or crushed sweet potatoes are versatile.
How it helps with aging: Sweet potatoes are full of vitamin C and vitamin A. Beta-carotene (of which sweet potato is full) is converted to vitamin A, which can stimulate the production of collagen which in turn helps to reduce the signs of wrinkles. .
Vitamin A can also act as a blocker against free radicals that cause damage to skin cells and prevent outbreaks and clogged pores.
Sweet potatoes are full of vitamin C and vitamin A. Beta-carotene (of which the sweet potato is full) is converted to vitamin A, which can stimulate the production of collagen which in turn helps reduce the signs of wrinkles. .
4. Refresh your eyes with spinach
Super-nutritious leafy vegetables like spinach are a great way to increase skin rejuvenation. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, vitamin C and vitamin K, spinach can be easily incorporated into our daily diet.
Why not try a delicious omelette for breakfast, salad for lunch or as a delicious side sautéed with garlic and season an evening for dinner?
How it helps with aging: The iron found in spinach helps transport oxygen through the body, helping to keep cells, skin, nails and hair healthy.
Vitamin K in particular can help with the appearance of dark circles. In addition, 93% of spinach is water and the added hydration will provide you with smooth and beautiful skin and smoother lines.
Super-leafy vegetables like spinach are a great way to increase skin rejuvenation.
5. Zucchini for UV protection
Zucchini, better known as zucchini in Britain, are so versatile and great to have in pasta and risotto.
The wonders of zucchini never cease to amaze me. They are high in fiber and low in carbohydrates, which means they will fill you up. They also contain lutein and zeaxanthin, which are potent antioxidants that have been considered beneficial to the skin in recent years.
Mediterranean-style grilled zucchini is also delicious. Try it!
The antioxidant anti-inflammatory properties of zucchini help increase the protection of the skin from UV rays
How it helps with aging: Its antioxidant anti-inflammatory properties help increase skin protection from UV rays, improve skin tone and reduce dryness.
Chef Susy Massetti has traveled all over the world and has been at the helm of some of the best 5 star restaurants.
After starting his career in Milan, he moved to Tuscany, where he built and sold his first restaurant.
It was then that she traveled around the world and was the personal chef of a Spanish tycoon and was given the opportunity to expand her culinary experience.
From 1995 to 2005, Chef Susy worked and lived in the US, where she opened and operated several independent restaurants.
In 2011 she was chased to launch a restaurant in Bahrain called Masso, a restaurant serving contemporary Italian cuisine that serves good food.
He now runs his own restaurants in the Middle East, including L’Orto, Bahrain and Eat’sy high-end coffee in Saudi Arabia. Click here to follow her on Instagram.