My husband turned 56 this month. I look at him sometimes and wonder how he has aged so well. As a life-long athlete, he has stayed healthy and fit. But what exactly determines youthfulness as we age? Is it genetics? Lifestyle?
It’s most likely a combination of both. It is a natural part of life for our bodies to age and deteriorate as we grow older. But why does it seem accelerated for certain individuals than it does for others? Is it a male vs female thing? Do we just accept, as a society, the “wisdom” and “distinguished”nature of graying hair and crows feet with men? Whatever the cause, are we capable of slowing this undeniable change we are all destined to fall victim to?
Emerging scientific research suggests that certain vitamins and compounds have the potential to extend our healthspan by slowing down the aging process and protecting against age-related diseases at a cellular level.
Aging affects not only our physical appearance with gray hair and wrinkles but also the aging of our cells. As our cells age, they become more susceptible to damage. Telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes, shorten over time. Accumulation of “zombie cells” leads to chronic inflammation, which is associated with age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and cancer.
Certain supplements that target cellular aging and inflammation can help maintain a more youthful biological state.
Here are 12 supplements that you may consider adding to your regimen:
1. Collagen: Collagen is a vital structural protein for the skin, bones, and tendons. Supplementing with collagen peptides, combined with other nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc, biotin, and fruit extract, has shown promising results in improving skin hydration, elasticity, and density.
2. Vitamin A: Vitamin A supports immune function, cell communication, and growth. It is crucial for organ health and vision. Adequate vitamin A intake may help reduce the risk of certain cancers and age-related vision problems.
3. Vitamin D: Known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D reduces inflammation, aids cellular growth, and supports muscle and bone function. Supplementing with vitamin D can be beneficial, especially since sunlight exposure and dietary sources may not provide sufficient amounts.
4. Curcumin: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties. Supplementing with curcumin may help reduce inflammation at a cellular level and potentially improve memory and symptoms of age-related diseases like cancer and osteoarthritis.
5. Resveratrol: Resveratrol, found in grapes, blueberries, and peanuts, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It may enhance mitochondrial function and potentially reduce the risk of age-related conditions, including diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases.
6. Zinc: Zinc is an essential nutrient for immune system functioning. Supplementing with zinc may help prevent inflammation and immune dysfunction associated with aging. It also plays a role in cognitive functioning and antioxidant activity.
7. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR): NR, a form of vitamin B, is a precursor to NAD+, a compound crucial for various biological processes. NAD+ levels decline with age, and supplementing with NR may help restore them, potentially benefiting cell survival, metabolism, immune function, and DNA repair.
8. CoQ-10: CoQ-10 is believed to have potential benefits for heart-related conditions due to its ability to reduce blood clots and act as an antioxidant. It has also been studied for age-related neurological diseases, although conclusive evidence is lacking.
9. Crocin: Crocin, a carotenoid found in saffron, has shown potential in warding off cognitive decline, reducing inflammation, and exhibiting anti-cancer effects. It may also help protect against skin damage caused by UVA radiation and improve insulin resistance.
10. Fish Oil: Fish oil supplementation may have various benefits as you age, such as lowering blood pressure and improving heart health and immune function. It may also potentially aid mental health by reducing depression and promoting positive moods.
11. Vitamin K: Vitamin K, along with vitamin D, may have protective effects on bone and heart health. Supplementation of vitamin K can be particularly beneficial for individuals predisposed to Alzheimer’s disease, as it may help reduce inflammation and target metabolic pathways associated with the disease.
12. Vitamin C: is associated with better cognitive performance such as working memory, recognition, decision speed, recall, and attention. Vitamin C is also essential to collagen production and, as an antioxidant, offers some protection against skin damage from exposure to UV radiation, which may also help improve the appearance of hydration and wrinkles.
Don’t forget your NAD shot the next time to schedule your routine visit with us. We recommend weekly injections for NAD. Start your new healthspan program with Body Tonic Wellness and watch how every facet of your physical and mental health improves!
