As we age, we’re more prone to developing certain diseases and illnesses. Many people are aware of nmn illnesses associated with childhood (chickenpox, ear infections, pertussis, etc.) and some of the more common age-related conditions (vision and hearing loss), but there are many age-related conditions— and good nutrition can help prevent many of these conditions and Diseases & Illnesses.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

AMD is the most common cause of blindness in those over the age of 50. This is caused by the deterioration of the macula in the eye. Although age is one risk factor, others include smoking, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Orange foods (which are high in carotenoids), such as carrots are great for eye health. Other foods like blueberries, chili peppers, corn, eggs, leafy greens, and salmon.

Cancer

The risk of cancer increases with age because the cells in our body become damaged over time, and this can result in cancer. There are several different types of cancer, so there are several other risk factors for cancer, such as a family history or smoking.

Even if you have all of these risk factors, you can still lower your risk of smoking by incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your diet. Antioxidants help fight free radicals that damage cells and lead to cancer. Examples of foods rich in antioxidants include berries, dark chocolate, and orange foods such as carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes.

Cardiovascular Disease

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death all over the world, and it’s the leading cause in the United States. It is most common in those aged 60 and older, making it an age-related disease— although it’s also pretty common in those aged 40-59 as well. Heart disease can lead to heart attacks, and are often caused by having high cholesterol and/or high blood pressure.

Fried foods, processed foods, sugary foods, saturated fat, and red meat can all contribute to cardiovascular disease if eaten excessively. Limit the amount of these foods you consume, and eat more whole grains, fruits, leafy green vegetables, and fatty fish (such as salmon) together with the best heart probiotic to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. You can also enjoy dark chocolate and red wine in moderation, as they have the ability to increase good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a disease that decreases the density of the bones. Nearly half of all women over the age of 50 will break a bone due to osteoporosis. Having osteoporosis also increases the risk of nursing home deaths, which is ultimately the result of neglect and even abuse in some cases.

Osteoporosis is most common in women, and particularly in women who live in the northernmost areas of the northern hemisphere, such as Scandinavia. Vitamin D deficiencies are also very common in this area, which is another risk factor for developing osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor about a vitamin D/calcium supplement, but also try to incorporate more leafy greens, salmon, and low-fat dairy into your diet.

Stroke

Strokes occur when blood stops flowing to the brain. Those over the age of 55 are more likely to have a stroke, and that risk doubles each decade afterwards. Other risk factors include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, being overweight, and lack of exercise.

Although those over the age of 55 are naturally at a higher risk of strokes, there are things that can be done to lower their risk. Since other risk factors are the results of poor eating habits, a healthy diet can help reduce your risk of stroke. Interestingly, increasing your intake of protein can help lower blood pressure.

Type 2 Diabetes

The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases after the age of 45. This is when the body becomes resistant to insulin. Having type 2 diabetes also increases your risk of blindness, heart attack, kidney failure, nerve damage, and stroke.

Eating a healthy, balanced diet is the key to avoiding type 2 diabetes. Make sure to increase your intake of whole grains, leafy greens, and other fiber-rich foods. A proper diet (as determined by your doctor) can also help you better manage your type 2 diabetes if you already have it.

Other common age-related diseases and illnesses include COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), dementia, hearing loss, osteoarthritis, and Parkinson’s disease. However, they don’t have as much research that suggests that a healthy diet can cure these illnesses. Still, a healthy diet won’t worsen any of these conditions, so it’s still a good idea to incorporate more healthy foods.