Agility is a mental and physical state of being. The physical aspects of agility allow you to move quickly and easily without strain or compromise while mental agility allows you to assimilate and process information quickly and effectively. The platform for these two aspects resides within your body's cells and their ability to absorb the nutrients that they need to thrive.
Vitamin C and Collagen
Physical agility is partially dependent on the amount of vitamin C that your body contains. Vitamin C is a necessary ingredient in producing collagen, a protein that connects and supports body tissues. Collagen enforces the structural aspects of blood vessels, bones, tendons and ligaments in your body. This ensures stability and flexibility in movement. Kiwi, strawberries, papaya and oranges are excellent fruit sources of vitamin C. Broccoli, brussels sprouts, bell and hot chili peppers are excellent vegetable sources.
Mental Agility
Dietary omega-3 fatty acids reside primarily in your brain, where they are used for memory, brain performance and overall mental agility. Omega-3 deficiencies affect mental and physical functions. Poor memory, mood swings and depression are the most common mental symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Flaxseed, walnuts, and canola and soybean oils are excellent sources of omega-3. Fatty fish such as mackerel, lake trout, albacore tuna, sardines and salmon are also reliable sources.
Cellular Effects
Mental and physical agility begins at a cellular level. Your body's cells make up the biology and biography of your health as evident by how easily most illnesses can be traced. Foods that contain antioxidants -- cell protectors and repairers -- can help to quell the cell-damaging effects of illness and aging. Tomatoes, blueberries, sweet potatoes, broccoli, green and white tea, and red wine are loaded with antioxidants, Dr. Mehmet Oz wrote in an March 2008 article in O Magazine.
Food Enzymes
Your body's ability to digest food is crucial to providing your cells the nourishment they need. Your body produces digestive enzymes -- substances that allow the chemical changes necessary to build or breakdown cells-- naturally, but food digestion gets an added boost from dietary enzymes. Raw fruits and vegetables provide the biggest boosts as enzymes are deactivated once heated beyond 118 degrees. Pineapple and papaya contain special enzymes called bromelain and papain that maximize food digestion.
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