🍎 Fruits (antioxidants, vitamin C, flavonoids)
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Strawberries
- Pomegranates
- Grapes (especially red & purple)
- Oranges
- Kiwi
🥦 Vegetables (fiber, carotenoids, antioxidants)
- Spinach
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Red bell peppers
🌰 Nuts, Seeds & Healthy Fats (omega-3s, vitamin E, minerals)
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Flaxseeds
- Chia seeds
- Avocado
🐟 Protein & Healthy Fats (anti-inflammatory omega-3s)
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Mackerel
🌿 Herbs & Spices (polyphenols, adaptogens, anti-inflammatory)
- Turmeric (curcumin)
- Ashwagandha
- Ginseng
- Rosemary
- Green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis, also listed in drinks)
🍵 Drinks (polyphenols, antioxidants, hydration)
- Green tea
- Matcha tea
- Hibiscus tea
- Rooibos tea
- Black coffee (in moderation)
🌾 Other Functional Foods
- Dark chocolate (70%+ cacao)
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Fermented foods (like kimchi, sauerkraut, or yogurt — for gut health, indirectly supporting telomeres)
💡 Why they work:
- Antioxidants & polyphenols reduce oxidative stress (a telomere shortener).
- Omega-3 fatty acids slow telomere shortening.
- Anti-inflammatory herbs/spices protect DNA.
- Fermented foods improve gut health → lower inflammation → healthier telomeres.