We are forever in search of the cure for old age.
From a scientific point of view, the most important time of our lives is our period of fertility. From nature’s point of view, we are not that useful after the age of 40. As a result, many functions in our body begin to decline after this age. We have the opportunity to delay the signs of aging, fight against cell damage, inflammation, improve the immune system and promote mental clarity.
We can’t stay young forever, but at least you can slow down the aging process from the inside out. Here are my favorite anti-aging vitamins and herbs that will help keep your cells healthy as you age:
Melatonin-If we think of the pineal gland as our internal clock, it “knows how old we are-and it knows when we are past our reproductive prime. As soon as this gland senses that we are too old to reproduce, it begins to produce far lower melatonin levels. This, in effect, signals all of our other systems to break down, and the aging process begins. Researchers have found that using melatonin does help the body mimic a youthful state.
Ubiquinol or Co-Enzyme Q10 – as we grow older, our CoQ10 levels naturally decline. Taking a CoQ10 supplement can make you less vulnerable to hardening of the arteries that leads to heart disease, improve your arterial elasticity while supporting heart function.
Blueberries or Blueberry Extract – one of the earth’s most powerful antioxidants, blueberries contain healthy anthocyanins, pigments that give these berries their blue color. Not only do berries fight free radicals (toxins, chemicals, and pollutants) that cause damage to your body, they also provide other essential nutrients that help slow down the aging process. Aim for a ½ cup per day or if you don’t like blueberries, choose a high-quality supplement.
Resveratrol – a polyphenol found in the skin of grapes and berries. Resveratrol can be found in red wine, hence the “French paradox” that shows people who drink red wine have fewer health problems from eating fatty foods. Studies continue to show that resveratrol improves heart health, decreases glucose levels, raises insulin sensitivity, and may help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Multi-Vitamin – taking a high-quality multi-vitamin is inexpensive insurance to ensure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs. According to the National Institutes of Health, studies show that women who take a multi-vitamin regularly have longer telomeres, the protective caps at the end of chromosomes that grow shorter with age. Longer telomeres are associated with health and youth, while shorter ones are associated with disease and aging.
Turmeric – a member of the ginger family, this yellow, ancient Indian spice serves up plenty of anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. It can help prevent arthritis and bone loss in aging women. Add it to yogurt, a smoothie, or rub it on chicken or fish.
Besides regular exercise and a healthy diet, you can take the above supplement to prepare to live longer and do it well.