Let’s face it, when you hit the big 5-0, you need all the help you can get —at least when it comes to nutrition. So it seems smart to add foods into your diet that are going to give you the most bang for your nutritional buck. And if you can add a few things into your food routine that can give you a little edge against aging, well, who wouldn’t do that? So if your over 50, eat this…

Butternut Squash

Butternut squash is packed with beta-carotene, which is important for eye health. The heart also benefits from the vitamin C in this winter squash and its high fiber content, which helps lower cholesterol and maintain good blood sugar levels. Plus, butternut squash is easy to prepare and tasty. It’s a great stand in for a sweet potato, with a subtle sweetness that rarely needs extra sugar. Split the squash in half length-wise, remove seeds and coat with a small amount of olive oil. Bake, flesh side up in a 375 degree oven for about 40-50 minutes. Enjoy!

Asparagus

Asparagus is high in vitamin A, lycopene, iron and even has a bit of protein. Vitamin A and lycopene are both important to immune and eye health. Lycopene has also been proven effective in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. Plus, asparagus is high in fiber which helps to reduce cholesterol and help keep our heart healthy.

Berries

Berries, like blueberries and raspberries are high in soluble fiber which helps to lower cholesterol. But berries also help slow the processing of blood glucose. This means that your blood sugar is more stable, helping to prevent type 2 diabetes and stave off damaging inflammation. Berries also contain vitamins K and C, manganese and other antioxidants.

Quinoa

Quinoa is gaining popularity here in the U.S., as Americans discover the slightly nutty taste of this South American grain. Well-known already to vegans and vegetarians, it’s on of the few foods that is a complete protein. It’s filled with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, such as B2, magnesium, copper, iron and phosphorus, and packs a large amount of fiber. It’s also gluten-free and easy to prepare. Use it in place of other grains, pasta or white rice. Try toasting Wild Oats Marketplace Organic Red Quinoa according to package directions.Then cook in vegetable broth for a hearty and tasty treat!