They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that’s never more true than when we’re talking about aging. Sure, you can get all the plastic surgery you want, but that won’t do a thing for your overall health. If you want to fight cancer and other diseases, preserve your brain function, and enjoy radiant, youthful skin, try an “ounce of prevention” in the form of these anti-aging superfoods.

You already know that fruits and vegetables are an important part of your diet, but did you know they actually fight aging? Green vegetables, for example, contain folate and other nutrients that protect your cognitive functions, support bone health, fight against age-related eye problems, and help to prevent cancer. As for fruits, berries, red grapes, and tomatoes are some of the best anti-aging foods. Their anti-oxidants ward off cancer and promote heart health. They’re also great for your skin tone, so you’ll enjoy smoother, brighter skin if you include these foods in your diet on a regular basis.

Aside from produce, certain oils also have great anti-aging properties. Olive oil, for example, is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fat. We tend to think of oils and fats as “bad” foods, but in moderation olive oil can help your body ward off cancer and heart disease. Coconut oil is another great oil to use in small amounts, and some people swear by it as a topical treatment for the complexion.

More healthy fats can be found in nuts and fish, both of which contain anti-inflammatory nutrients. Eating a diet rich in nuts and fish can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, stroke, and cardiovascular disease.

While you’re cooking up all these delicious, nutritious foods, go ahead and spice it up a little! Many spices actually carry pretty significant health benefits. Tumeric and ginger, for example, have anti-inflammatory compounds. Cinnamon is known to be helpful in regulating blood sugar, and the antioxidants in garlic protect against heart disease and cancer.

Think of your anti-aging diet as a way to achieve youthfulness and beauty from the inside out. When you nourish your body on the inside, the results are going to show on the outside. Choose your foods wisely, and you can enjoy better health, more energy, and younger-looking skin. It’s truly the easiest and most effective way to age healthfully and gracefully.