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The Best Foods Skin Experts Say Can Help You ‘Live Longer’ And ‘Look Younger’

October 4, 2025 by Mariam Qayum

 
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Can the food you eat really help you stay younger, healthier, and even more radiant? According to esthetician and holistic health coach Chris Gibson—who has spent over 36 years in the skincare and wellness industry—the answer is yes. While genetics, exercise, and stress management all play a role in aging, nutrition is one of the most powerful (and controllable) factors that directly impacts how we look and feel.

Gibson, who is about to turn 60, says his biological age consistently tests 25 years younger than his chronological age—thanks to disciplined nutrition and lifestyle habits. “Foods can actually act as anti-aging medicine,” he explains. And the best part? You don’t need expensive creams or invasive procedures—just a few smart dietary swaps.

Here are the top foods and habits Gibson swears by for longevity and glowing skin:

1. Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and even kale (though Gibson admits it’s his least favorite) are powerhouse veggies packed with fiber, minerals like magnesium and folate, and compounds that help your liver detoxify. These vegetables don’t just keep your digestion on track—they actively support organ health, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy energy levels.

Gibson recommends at least 1–2 cups daily, whether steamed, roasted, or tossed into salads.

2. Olive Oil

A staple of the Mediterranean diet, olive oil provides the “good fats” your body craves. Rich in antioxidants, olive oil supports cardiovascular health, lowers bad cholesterol, combats oxidative stress, and even helps keep your brain sharp.

On busy days, Gibson takes a tablespoon of olive oil with a pinch of salt if he doesn’t cook with it—proving you don’t need elaborate recipes to benefit from this liquid gold.

3. Nuts

Cashews and almonds are Gibson’s top picks—and not just because he’s loved them since childhood. Nuts are rich in minerals, healthy fats, and plant protein. They keep you fuller for longer, help manage blood sugar, and have been shown in numerous studies to support heart health and longevity. “A handful of almonds a day is one of the easiest, most satisfying healthy snacks,” he says.

4. Berries

Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and cherries are nutritional superheroes. They’re loaded with antioxidants, vitamin K, and anti-inflammatory compounds that protect against oxidative stress—a key factor in premature aging.

Blueberries in particular may help protect the brain and arteries by keeping calcium deposits where they belong. Add them to smoothies, sprinkle them over oatmeal, or snack on them fresh for a daily anti-aging boost.

5. Plant-Based Smoothies

Instead of skipping meals or reaching for fast food, Gibson swaps in a superfood shake almost daily. His go-to contains plant protein, greens, adaptogens, and antioxidants—all blended into a convenient, nutrient-packed meal.

Not only do smoothies help with weight management, but they also fuel workouts, improve energy, and provide skin-boosting nutrients in one easy drink.

6. Tea Over Sugary Drinks

Instead of sodas or sweetened beverages, Gibson opts for tea—whether black, green, or antioxidant-rich rooibos. Tea hydrates while delivering anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to slow the aging process and support skin health.

The Bottom Line

While topical skincare has its place, Gibson emphasizes that what you put inside your body matters even more. By eating cruciferous veggies, olive oil, nuts, berries, and plant-based meals—while cutting back on refined sugar—you can dramatically improve not only your skin but also your overall health and longevity. “Your diet can truly help you live longer and look younger,” Gibson says. And if his glowing skin and youthful energy at nearly 60 are any proof, it’s worth listening.

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