The 5 Drinks That Can Help Fight Aging

Drink to your health.

You won't find the fountain of youth in anti-aging creams or potions. Anti-aging begins on the inside. Here are some delicious drinks that can help turn back the clock -- inside and out.

Coffee
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Your morning pick-me-up can provide more than just a boost of energy in the morning. A cup of the good stuff contains age-fighting antioxidants, that protect the body from damage. Coffee is said to be able to fight off a number of diseases, including Parkinson's, depression and type 2 diabetes. Studies have even shown a link between coffee consumption and a reduced risk of basal cell carcinoma, one of the most common skin cancers. Another study found that moderate coffee consumption (around three cups a day) may possibly reduce the risk or at least delay the onset of Alzheimer's in older adults.
Red Wine
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As they say, red wine only gets better with age. And it turns out the drink may do the same for you. Red wine contains antioxidants, called polyphenols, that can help protect your blood vessels and arteries. It's a polyphenol called resveratrol, in particular, that gets a lot of hype. It's believed to help lower the bad cholesterol, which is why red wine has been touted to be heart healthy. Doctors, however, stress that it may not be wise for people to start drinking if they currently don't to reap these benefits. And for those who do, moderation is essential.

As for its anti-aging benefits, there are a few. A study from Texas A&M found that resveratrol helped improve learning and memory in rats.

Columbia University researchers also say that the compound is effective in blocking the sun's damaging UVB rays, thus helping to protect against skin cancer.
Pomegranate Juice
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Pomegranate juice is not only tart and delicious, it's chock full of antioxidants. The fruit itself can be a pain to eat but the juice is readily available in supermarkets. It contains antioxidants, including polyphenols. When it comes to antioxidants, pomegranate juice is one of the most potent fruit juices.

In addition, a Spanish study from 2011 found that the drink can actually slow down the natural wear and tear on your DNA, due to oxidation. Subjects were given pomegranate extract in pill form, but in just 30 days, showed less cell damage -- which can cause aging.

Pomegranate juice is also an excellent source of vitamin C, which plays an important role in the skin's collagen production and can repair and prevent sun damage.

It's important to remember when you're drinking these juices, to check the label and make sure there isn't too much added sugar or other fillers. Pomegranate can also interact with certain medications, so make sure you check with your doctor.
Tea
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If you're not fond of coffee, don't fret. Tea is a wonderful substitute that also offers numerous anti-aging properties.

Green tea is rich in polyphenols, helping to fight off cell damage and aging. Studies have reported that it may be helpful in preventing a number of conditions including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and even osteoporosis. One study even found that a polyphenol called EGCG in green tea can revive dying skin cells.

Other types of teas are also rich in age-fighting antioxidants. White tea, in particular, has been shown to slow down the breakdown of collagen and elastin, helping to prevent skin aging.
Aloe Vera
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Aloe vera is known for its cooling properties, and is often used to calm sun burns and skin irritations. It is rich in antioxidant vitamins A, C and E, and has anti-inflammatory properties. It has been known to help wounds heal with less scarring and to also strengthen skin fibers.

A small study of women over 45 found that taking liquid aloe vera supplements for just 90 days improved skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles.

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