Since the beginning, people have wondered about the secret to a long, happy life. We may not have found a “Fountain of Youth,” but science has discovered something even better, and it might already be in your kitchen. Recent studies suggest that the real key to living longer is food.

Here are 10 tasty superfoods to revisit or try for the first time!

1. Avocados

Avocados are more than a popular topping. They are rich in monounsaturated fats, which help lower cholesterol and support heart health. They also help you feel full, making it easier to avoid snacking. Researchers have found that certain molecules in avocados can target stem cells of acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a cancer that often affects people over 65.

2. Beans

The U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommend eating a half-cup of beans each day. Beans are full of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants. With 77% complex carbohydrates and 21% protein, they provide lasting energy. Eating beans regularly can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, and decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes.

3. Cruciferous Veggies & Leafy Greens

Vegetables such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage are excellent for gut health and are rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and arugula, can help you live a longer life. One study found that people who regularly ate greens had a 15.8% lower risk of heart disease. Another 15-year study showed that eating leafy greens was linked to a 35% lower risk of age-related vision loss.

4. Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Adding Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) to your salad provides anti-inflammatory polyphenols. Consuming just 10 grams of EVOO daily is linked to a 7% lower risk of early death. It may also help prevent Alzheimer’s by supporting memory and learning.

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5. Nuts

Eating three servings of nuts each week can lower your risk of premature death by 39%. All nuts are good sources of magnesium and potassium, but walnuts stand out. Research suggests that eating five servings of walnuts a week could help women live 1.78 years longer and men 1.94 years longer.

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6. Fatty Fish

Salmon and other fatty fish provide omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, which can reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death by 80-90%. People who eat fish regularly also have lower risks of Alzheimer’s and cancer.

7. Whole Grains

Choosing whole grains, such as quinoa, barley, or brown rice, instead of white bread can benefit your health. Eating about three servings of whole grains each day is linked to a 25% lower risk of death from heart disease. Whole-grain pasta and bread are good options, but original forms like farro or oats offer the most benefits.

8. Berries

Blueberries and strawberries are not only sweet and delicious, but also healthy. They help reduce inflammation and protect your heart. Plus, a study of 16,000 seniors found that people who ate berries experienced slower cognitive decline.

9. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa contains flavonoids that help protect your heart. Jeanne Louise Calment, who lived to 122 years old, credited her long life to eating chocolate.

10. Fermented Foods

It’s no mystery that your gut plays a big role in your health. Fermented foods such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics, which support digestion and may help with issues like IBS. If you don’t like fermented foods, you can try fermented multivitamins, which can be just as beneficial. These are designed to be pre-digested by beneficial bacteria, making it easier for your body to absorb the nutrients.

Healthy eating is something everyone should embrace as we age, but think of it as a new adventure rather than a chore! Exercise is also a great way to keep your heart healthy, whether that’s a sunset stroll, a dance party in your kitchen, or a fun pickleball match with friends. By fueling your body with the right foods and keeping your muscles moving, you’re not just adding years to your life—you’re adding a whole lot of life and “pep” to your years!