Cell renewal has been a hot topic lately. This is largely due to stem cells' remarkable ability to morph into any cell type that the body requires. Their cardinal role is to replenish old, dying, or damaged cells. Considering our bodies consist almost entirely of cells, this function is paramount.
So, how can we stimulate our bodies to produce more stem cells, or at least maintain production, for a healthier, longer life?
The answer is simple: Food.
However, not just any food, but whole foods. Studies have shown that certain superfoods are packed with properties vital for cell renewal.
Understanding Whole Foods
One might wonder, what exactly are whole foods? Whole foods are natural and uncomplicated. Our grocery stores are filled with canned and boxed processed foods. If you inspect the ingredients of these processed foods, they're likely to contain a myriad of multisyllabic words that are difficult to pronounce, let alone identify.
Can this truly be classified as food? Most of these “ingredients” are chemically enhanced preservatives, artificial sweeteners and flavors, and synthetic trans fats. This is hardly real food!
Whole foods are minimally processed. They are as close to their natural state as possible. Whole foods retain most of their nutrients and actually taste like real food. While it may not be feasible for most of us to entirely eliminate processed foods, reducing our consumption significantly is possible.
Shopping for Whole Foods
So, you're at the grocery store on your whole food expedition but you're not sure which foods will best aid cell renewal. Generally, you'll want to select foods rich in anti-inflammatory properties, essential fatty acids and amino acids, and steer clear of foods with an extensive list of ingredients. Here are a few top whole food choices for kick-starting cell regeneration:
Fatty Fish & Seafood
Omega-3 fatty acid is what you're after in fatty fish and seafood. Wild herring, salmon, and mackerel contain more than 1,500 mg of omega-3 per 3 ounces cooked! Wild and farmed oysters, wild swordfish and even canned tuna boast a 500-1,000 mg range of omega-3 fatty acid content. Generally, the darker meats offer higher omega-3 content. Cod, tilapia, crab and shrimp have less than 200 mg of omega-3.
Mushrooms
Shiitake and maitake mushrooms are exceptional for liver protection. If you're not aware of the significance of liver health, think of your liver as the “checkpoint” of your body. It performs approximately 300 functions, including fighting inflammation and filtering toxins.
Nuts & Seeds
Perfect for intense snack cravings, nuts and seeds offer a healthy dose of protein and energy. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory omega-3's in almonds, walnuts, hemp and chia are not to be overlooked.
Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are packed with potent antioxidants that promote liver health and are heart-friendly. Their anti-inflammatory properties make these berries a superfood, perfect as a snack, salad topping or cereal sweetener.
Broccoli
This underappreciated cruciferous vegetable also has anti-inflammatory properties. If you don't enjoy it as a stand-alone snack, try incorporating broccoli into salads, stir-fries, or make broccoli fritters.
Ginger Root
Best known for soothing upset stomachs, ginger root combats inflammation, which aids in cellular strengthening, repair, and renewal. This versatile root can be used fresh, dried, or powdered. Ginger root has an intense, tangy flavor, so a little goes a long way. Try making a warm cup of ginger tea or adding it to a stir-fry recipe.
In conclusion, while there aren't foods that directly regenerate cells, there are foods that can equip the body and eliminate barriers that might hinder cell regeneration. Your diet is one aspect of your life you can completely control that directly impacts your health and wellness. We can't alter our DNA, but we can modify our diet to facilitate a healthier, longer lifestyle.
