When we hear the term anti-aging, we often think of fancy night creams and expensive skin serums.
We picture addressing visible signs of aging like wrinkles and UV-related pigmentation. However, there’s another important aspect of aging that doesn’t always get the same attention: the inside.
Aging isn’t just about what you see on the surface.
In fact, how we care for our bodies internally is just as important—if not more so—than focusing on external signs like wrinkles and sunspots.
The strength of our bones, the functionality of our organs, and the health of our circulatory system are what truly sustain us throughout our lives.
Society, influenced by media and idealized images, often leads us to focus solely on the visible signs of aging.
But supporting your body from the inside is key to feeling youthful longer, and it can have positive effects on your appearance as well!
Instead of focusing only on creams and lotions, giving your body the support it needs at its core level is what provides the greatest benefits as we age. Ready to learn more about supplements that support healthy aging?
Why Supporting Anti-Aging from Within is Important
When we’re young, our physical abilities are often taken for granted. We’re climbing trees, running, jumping, swimming—you name it.
When an injury occurs, we typically know it’s just a matter of time before our body heals and we’re back on track. That’s one of the advantages of being young and physically able.
However, as we age, our bodies begin to change. Blood vessels and arteries may lose some flexibility, which can make it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Bone density can decrease, which may increase the risk of fractures.
Aging cells mean that the body takes longer to heal, and recovery may not be as swift. This can also make us more vulnerable to infections [1]. Additionally, muscle mass tends to decrease, and metabolism slows down, which can make managing weight more challenging.
These changes are a natural part of life.
However, there are things we can do to support our bodies as we age. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk of injury and disease.
Additionally, research has identified natural nutrients and compounds that may help support physical and cognitive resilience as we age.
5 Tips to Support Your Health as You Age
The long-term benefits of your daily habits will have the greatest impact on your overall health as you age.
For many of us, advice like staying active and eating a balanced diet isn’t new. But when you understand the potential benefits of a healthy lifestyle over time, it’s easier to make choices that support your well-being.
What’s important is understanding the “why,” and here’s what you need to know.
Follow a healthy, nutrient-dense diet
A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins can provide vital nutrients for your body.
Research shows that if a 60-year-old shifts from the typical American diet to a more nutrient-dense diet, they could potentially increase their life expectancy [2]. Even an 80-year-old may experience a positive impact on longevity with dietary changes [2].
Move your body daily.
If intense exercise isn’t your preference, consider going for a walk every day. Studies suggest that adults 40 and older who take at least 8,000 steps a day may have a reduced risk of death from all causes [3].
Quit smoking and avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke have been linked to a reduction in telomere cell length, which may contribute to faster physical aging [4].
Get adequate sleep.
Restful sleep is essential for recovery and cognitive function. Studies show that proper sleep can help regulate mood, improve problem-solving abilities, and support overall mental well-being [5].
Quality sleep may also be associated with better brain health and a reduced buildup of beta-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer’s [6].
Limit your alcohol intake.
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, which may negatively affect cells [7].
However, moderate alcohol intake may offer some potential benefits, including support for heart health and reduced risk of certain cardiovascular conditions [8].
It’s important to maintain balance and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
5 Natural Supplements that Support Healthy Aging
Protecting your body as it ages involves adopting healthy habits, as mentioned above.
Additionally, there are natural supplements that can help support your joints, bones, skin, and cognitive function. Here are 5 supplements to consider for supporting healthy aging from the inside.
Curcumin
Curcumin, a potent antioxidant found in turmeric, has been traditionally used in Eastern medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory properties.
The “Golden Herb” has been a staple in Chinese medicine for centuries, and research suggests it may offer support for cardiovascular and brain health.
Its potential benefits are also linked to its ability to help manage inflammation [11].
Collagen
Collagen has gained popularity in recent years for its potential benefits. Research indicates that collagen from bovine and marine sources may help support skin elasticity [12].
Additionally, Collagen Peptides show promise for supporting joint health, muscle comfort, and bone strength.
A 24-week study suggests that supplemental collagen may help reduce joint discomfort and support the maintenance of joint health [13].
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is widely known for its potential benefits for overall health. It plays a key role in reducing inflammation, supporting vascular health, and protecting cells from oxidative stress [14] [15].
Additionally, vitamin C may assist in supporting the removal of environmental toxins from cells [16]. These benefits contribute to overall health and well-being.
Glutathione
Glutathione is often referred to as a powerful antioxidant, made up of amino acids that naturally occur in the body.
As we age, the body’s natural production of glutathione may decrease due to oxidative stress, which has led to interest in supplementation.
Glutathione may help protect against oxidative stress, and early research suggests it could support muscle strength and cognitive health as we age [17] [18].
DHA
DHA, or Docosahexaenoic acid, is naturally found in fatty fish, and vegan DHA is also available, derived from algae.
DHA is known to support cardiovascular function and brain health. Research suggests it may help manage inflammation and support joint health [9].
Additionally, recent studies have explored its potential in supporting mood and emotional well-being [10].
Conclusion
When it comes to supporting healthy aging, nature offers many options.
With the help of this collection of natural supplements, your body may receive support to help maintain overall health as you age.
Focusing on your health from the inside out is important for long-term well-being.
Starting early can help support your mind and body for years to come!
FAQs
Curcumin, found in turmeric, offers powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It supports cardiovascular and brain health, and helps reduce chronic inflammation, which is a key factor in aging.
Yes, Collagen supplements can improve skin elasticity and hydration, as well as support joint health by reducing discomfort and aiding against degeneration. Bovine and marine sources are particularly effective.
Glutathione is called the “Master Antioxidant” because it is a powerful substance made up of amino acids that protect against oxidative stress. It helps maintain muscle strength and cognitive function as we age.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41590-017-0006-x?error=cookies_not_supported&code=46718135-e882-4165-ab90-9ad9e9138dfa
- https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2022/02/diet-health-lifespan-new-research/#:%7E:text=The%20researchers%20found%20that%20eating,life%20expectancy%20by%20eight%20years.
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