Prevention December 2022

MY GRANDMOTHER LIVED to the age of 97, and her older sister to 104. They were both brilliant and accomplished, and I only hope I can stay as interesting—and as interested in the world—as they did. That kind of hope is what inspired this issue’s special section, Live Longer & Happier. You’ve heard the saying “Old age isn’t so bad when you consider the alternative!” It’s funny on a T-shirt, but in truth nobody wants to be 98 and feel 98—or, possibly worse, be 98 and not even know they’re 98. That’s why we’re here with 20+ pages of good news, fascinating insights, and helpful advice about aging. There really are ways to protect your body and mind, and to feel (and look!) younger. It seems as if every aging…

Gingerbread Goodness ’Tis the season for once-a-year sweets! Gingerbread is one of the most iconic holiday treats, whether you enjoy the classic cake or the fun cookie-cutter shapes—and it does more than get you in the spirit. That distinctive flavor comes from a combo of warm spices such as allspice, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and ginger that boast anti-inflammatory properties. “Herbs and spices provide not only huge flavor but also a dose of powerful antioxidants,” says Stefani Sassos, M.S., R.D.N., deputy nutrition director for the Good Housekeeping Institute. “Even just half a teaspoon of ground cloves can contain more antioxidants than a half-cup serving of blueberries.” And some recipes even include citrus juice or zest in the batter or the icing for a bonus antioxidant boost. Of course, these benefits don’t…

SERVES 4 1 In small bowl, combine 1 Tbsp each red wine vinegar, olive oil, and capers (chopped), 1 scallion (finely chopped), and ¼ tsp pepper; set aside. 71¢ 2 Heat air fryer to 400°F. In bowl, toss 1 pint grape tomatoes, 1 Tbsp oil, and ¼ tsp each kosher salt and pepper. Season 1 lb skinless salmon fillet (cut into 1½-in. pieces) with ¼ tsp each salt and pepper. Place salmon in single layer on 1 side of air fryer and add tomatoes to remaining space (piling them is fine). Air-fry until salmon is barely opaque throughout, 6 min. $9.59 3 Transfer tomatoes to bowl with vinegar-scallio mixture and toss to combine, then toss with 1 Tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley. 2¢ 4 Warm 4 pieces naan or flatbread; top…

SWEET POTATO NACHOS Using sweet potato or white potato in place of tortilla chips is a nutrient-dense way to enjoy this fun and yummy dish. Crisp up potato rounds in the air fryer, then pile on your favorite toppings. “Think things like black beans, tomato, coleslaw mix, cilantro, and guac. It’s a super-nourishing bite!”Blatner says. FRENCH TOAST “This brunch staple has a rep for not being healthy, but it really can be, and you can make it super-quickly in an air fryer,” says Blatner. “Dip whole-grain bread in protein-rich eggs, then top with more goodness like cinnamon, nut butter, plain Greek yogurt, or a superfood drizzle made with mashed berries and a little maple syrup.” FRUIT CRISPS Place frozen berries or diced apples or peaches in an oven-safe ramekin; top…

■ Proving that good things come in small packages, chia seeds, the tiniest of nutritional heroes, are emerging as a powerhouse skincare ingredient. Chia seed oil is turning up in serums, facial oils, and creams thanks to its all-star moisturizing, soothing, and protective benefits. “The oil is rich in nourishing fatty acids, and it boasts strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties like vitamin B3 and tocopherols,” says dermatologist Mona Gohara, M.D., an associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale School of Medicine. “It helps calm inflammation, guard against damage, and keep the skin barrier healthy so skin can hold moisture better.” Safe on all skin types, including sensitive skin, chia seed oil can even help decrease eczema symptoms. (If you have acne, rosacea, or inflamed skin, test a chia seed product…

1 Lie facedown on your stomach with your arms stretched out in a T shape, elbows bent at about 90 degrees. 2 Keeping your forehead facing down, squeeze your shoulder blades almost as if you have a small magnet pulling them down and away from your ears. 3 Keep squeezing as you lift both arms off the floor at the same time, bringing them up as high as you can without losing that shoulder blade tension. Hold for 3 seconds, then return to starting position. 4 Repeat 15 times; that’s one set. Do two to three sets.…