We always need good nutrition, no matter our age! But as we age, our diet begins to be of greater importance – in our lifestyle, our moods, how we handle menopause and post-menopause – and for remaining as youthful as possible for as long as possible.

I have listed here 7 foods that will make you happier, healthier and more youthful. Nearly all the information here comes from The Linus Pauling Institute, which emphasizes living longer and being healthier.

The institute promotes a diet and lifestyle that represents the idea of eating everything in moderation – and abandoning processed foods that are very aging! You can tell when you have eaten unwisely, can’t you?

It’s important though to remember that these 7 healthy aging foods are by no means a complete list. There are 10 more foods dedicated to the promotion of happiness and well-being and your overall health.

Bananas

Bananas improve your overall well-being. They contain magnesium and potassium. Magnesium deficiency is frequently caused by medications and is also part of the aging process. As you age, you may not get enough magnesium from a banana to relieve cramps, lower your anxiety levels and improve your sleep. It’s important to supplement these two minerals, especially magnesium.

Oranges

Two 370ml glasses of orange juice per day is sufficient for your basic Vitamin C requirements. As an anti-oxidant, Vitamin C lowers oxidative stress.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal contains tryptophan, which helps the brain increase the supply of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin makes you feel good and is great for your skin! Oatmeal is also delicious for breakfast with some blueberries and yoghurt.

Pistachios

Did you know 25 pistachios contain 100 calories and lower the blood pressure response to stress? They have been shown to significantly reduce levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol) while increasing antioxidant levels. You can even recycle the shells as compost or mulch in the garden! They are also delicious with a large Gin and Tonic!

Avocado

Avocados contain mono-unsaturated fat and potassium. The mono-unsaturated increase the number of serotonin receptors in the brain. So, eating avocado makes you feel good!

Wine

Drink wine in moderation! One glass (just one), lowers your blood pressure and relaxes you. The secret is to limit the amount you drink!

Whole Grain Toast

Whole grain toast provides slow-release carbohydrates that stabilise blood sugar. Add some protein, such as almond butter, to improve your memory, concentration, and alertness.

As I mentioned earlier, these by no means represent a complete list! However, they’re a start and in my book, 25 Ways to a Healthier, Happier You, you can find more.

There is so much unhappiness in the world. Although we can rarely affect world events, it’s nice to know that, with the right attitude and good food, we can change our own mood. It’s all part of the aging younger process.

What are your favorite healthy aging foods? Do you eat unprocessed foods that make you feel happy? Do you look for a diet that will contribute to your well-being? Do you diet to lose weight or diet to remain healthy and age younger? Please join the conversation.