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Aging is a result of normal biological functioning where there are marked changes in our cells. We do know that antioxidants from foods and many substances have anti-aging properties, many of which can be taken as supplements by those looking for natural ways to reduce cellular damage and decelerate the aging process.
Before you start buying all the anti-aging supplements out there, it's important to know that they shouldn't be your only solution. Healthy eating, quality sleep and exercise are important lifestyle habits that will get you far.
If you do decide to look into vitamins and supplements, it's recommended to consult your doctor or a healthcare professional who knows your personal medical history. The last thing you want to do is spend a lot of money on a product and find out it's going to hurt your body.
1. Collagen
There are two amino acids in the protein collagen, Proline and Glycine that are essential for the formation and repair of joints, bones, muscles, and tendons. It gives structure to your skin, bones, muscles and connective tissue and is promoted as a fountain of youth for its potential to reduce the appearance of aging skin and improving the elasticity. Collagen plays a major role in the structure and elasticity of our skin, aka our youthful skin’s bouncy quality.
Many assume that if they eat enough animal protein, they will get collagen in their bodies. The truth is that even if you were eating a lot of meat, it would be very hard for your body to synthesize protein and build it into collagen. To build collagen your body requires a lot more to link all the amino chains together.
As you age, collagen production slows, leading to collagen loss in the skin that accelerates signs of aging like wrinkles. Some studies suggests that supplementing with collagen may reduce signs of aging, by improving our skin’s texture and hydration, as well as replenish our elasticity, and reducing wrinkles and dry skin.
There are many types of collagen supplements that are on the market, including powders and capsules.
2. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is another nutrient that can promote youthful skin and help with collagen production. Everyone touts vitamin C for its abilities to ward off colds and flu, but this potent antioxidant may also improve skin's texture and appearance.
Collagen and Elastin both work to give the skin its shape, and vitamin C helps to support both. Elastin is a necessary protein that provides the skin with elasticity of tissues. Like collagen, elastin production slows with aging, and existing elastin breaks down, resulting in wrinkles around the eyes and mouth. Vitamin C is beneficial in promoting elastin synthesis, helping to slow the aging process.
Vitamin C is also popular for anti-aging because of its ability to help regenerate tissues. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that blocks damage caused by free radicals, which is largely associated with the aging process.
As we age, we notice more wrinkles and lines and Vitamin C acts to help stabilize collagen against free radical damage. Sometimes referred to as ascorbic acid it stimulates collagen production that can, in turn, help reduce fine lines that may have been brought on by environmental stressors, like sun and heat exposure or pollution.
It is recommend getting your daily vitamin C from foods like oranges, green peppers, and berries; and it can also be absorbed through supplements.
3. Vitamin D
Low energy or fatigue is a common symptom of vitamin D deficiency and supplementation with Vitamin D has been linked to improving immunity, tiredness, muscle weakness and depression.
4. Probiotics
Fixing your gut will supercharge your energy, reverse the appearance of aging and transform your health. A daily natural supplement formulated with probiotics, prebiotics and digestive enzymes to keep your gut functioning.
5. Omega-3's
One of the most significant nutrients for healthy skin is omega 3 fatty acids. They are among the few nutrients that have numerous health and beauty benefits from fighting depression to improving eye health and improving cardiovascular health.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients found in certain foods and abundant in foods like walnuts, seafood, fatty fish, and flax seeds.
Omega-3's can serve to regulate the skin's oil production, improve balanced hydration, subdue breakouts and minimize signs of aging. It can also help soften rough, dry skin and have a soothing effect on irritation and dermatitis.
Your body can’t manufacture Omega-3, so you have to add them to your diet through Omega 3 rich foods or get your Omega-3’s through fish oil supplements.
6. Co-Q10
Research suggests that levels of CoQ10 decline as you age and supplementing with it has been shown to improve certain aspects of health in older individuals. CoQ10 Supplements can help reduce an accumulation of free radicals that accelerates the aging process and age-related disease.
Though CoQ10 shows promise as an anti-aging supplement, more evidence is needed before it can be recommended as a natural way to delay aging. Be sure to consult a trusted healthcare professional before giving it a try.
7. Papaya Enzyme
Papaya is an incredibly healthy tropical fruit. It’s loaded with antioxidants that can reduce inflammation, help fight disease and may help keep you looking young. You’ll find papaya enzyme (papain) in papayas and in many dietary supplements. Common uses include helping to reduce inflammation, improving blood sugar control and supporting skin and hair health.
Free radicals are reactive molecules created during your body’s metabolism. They can promote oxidative stress, which wreaks havoc on our skin and body. Papaya enzyme may be great for fighting the effects of oxidative stress, which can manifest as fatigue, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, loss of energy, soreness from overexertion of intense workouts.
Depending on your health goals, you can take papaya enzyme by mouth or apply it to your skin. Further research continues, so speak with your doctor before supplementing.
8. EGCG
Another powerful antioxidant compound, Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) is found in concentrated green tea. Among EGCG’s diverse array of potential health-promoting properties is its ability to promote longevity and protect against age-related disease development.
EGCG can be consumed by drinking green tea, matcha or concentrated supplements. Studies have linked green tea to a variety of health benefits, like helping to prevent heart disease, type 2 diabetes and encouraging weight loss.
EGCG may slow aging by restoring mitochondrial function in cells and acting on pathways involved in aging.
9. Nicotinamide Riboside
Nicotinamide Riboside is a form of vitamin B promoted as a longevity supplement. It protects your brain from toxins and stress and increases the ratio of two essential compounds called NAD+ and NADH. NAD+ is a compound found in every cell in your body and involved in many critical processes, including energy metabolism, maintaining healthy sleep cycles and DNA repair.
NAD+ levels decline with age, and this decline is thought to be associated with accelerated physical decline and the onset of age-related diseases.
Some studies have shown that supplementing with Nicotinamide Riboside may be effective at slowing and even reversing some signs of aging.
10. Whey Protein
If you’ve ever opened a yogurt container to see liquid floating on top, that’s Whey. Whey protein is a mixture of proteins isolated from whey and goes through various processing steps to become what people generally recognize as a powder that is added to smoothies, meal replacements and protein bars.
Whey protein isn’t just for bodybuilders. Taking whey protein is a convenient way to add protein on top of your daily intake. Whey is considered a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids. Proteins are the main building blocks of the human body. They’re used to make various important things, including tendons, organs and skin, as well as hormones, enzymes, neurotransmitters and various molecules. It supports your all-important mitochondria, and it also boosts immunity and brain function.
Whey protein is readily available and easy to incorporate into your best anti-aging supplement routine. Even though you can find whey protein in basically any grocery store, be picky with your protein. Whey protein is available in three different forms that are produced from various types and levels of processing, and have a few different benefits based on your goals.
Whey is generally well tolerated, though people with lactose intolerance need to be careful. You’d be missing out on a huge opportunity to turn back the clock by not taking whey protein.
Other Aging Tips
Taking a holistic approach to aging can benefit you in the long run. The overall best way to promote longevity and health is reduce stress as much as possible, get quality sleep, exercise, and to consume a good diet.
Drink Enough Water
Drinking enough water is essential no matter what age you are, but it becomes especially key when you get older. Water, herbal teas, and hydrating foods such as fruits and vegetables can all be a part of hydration.
Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables
Eat more plant-based whole foods to rev up energy. Fresh, whole, unprocessed foods renew energy levels with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can help your skin, too.
Certain supplements may help slow the aging process and promote a long, healthy life. Nevertheless, while some studies suggest that taking certain supplements may help slow the ageing process, the best way to promote longevity and overall health is to engage in a healthy complete approach.
Before adding a new supplement to your routine discuss its use with your health care provider especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking medication.
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