We frequently hear reports in the press about “super foods” – foods especially purported to boost our immunity, prevent cancer, cure degenerative illnesses and generally keep us feeling young and healthy. In a recent paper, Pan et al. examine the science that exists to support these claims.1 They review signalling pathways that are associated with aging and degenerative diseases and explore how compounds contained in common foods may inhibit these pathways. A number of promising candidates found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, tea, spices and fish are presented. Lovers of chocolate and wine will also be heartened by the list of youth-promoting foods compiled.

Read the full article: Molecular mechanisms for anti-aging by natural dietary compounds

This article was published in the April 2012 issue of BiotecVisions – a free monthly e-magazine on the latest in biotechnology.

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Journal Reference:
1.Pan, M., Lai, C., Tsai, M., Wu, J., & Ho, C. (2012). Molecular mechanisms for anti-aging by natural dietary compounds Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, 56 (1), 88-115 DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.201100509