Ageing an inevitable part of life, however a healthy lifestyle and the right nutrients can help to slow this process so that you can age more gracefully and feel great at any age! Ageing can gradually affect our energy levels, appearance, and brain function, causing them to decline with time. Along with the right lifestyle and a diet full of anti-oxidants, supplementation with specific nutrients can help you to delay this process in order to maintain that youthful glow for longer.
Recommended nutrients:
• Hyalauronic acid is naturally found in the body, though levels decline with age. Hyalauronic acid is hydrophilic, and so attracts water to it, acting as an internal moisturiser and helping to lubricate and plump up the skin. It is also beneficial for the joints due to its lubricating properties.
• Collagen - a protein which provides structure to the skin, keeping it firm and supple.
• Alpha Lipoic Acid is a potent antioxidant with both water and fat soluble properties. Because of this, it is able to protect the body from damaging free-radicals both inside and outside of your cells. (Whereas water soluble antioxidants aren’t able to penetrate the cell in order to enter).
• CoQ10 – An anti-oxidant which is not only good for heart health, but increases energy production in the mitochondria of the cell.
• Resveratrol is a phytonutrient which is found in the skin of grapes, blueberries and cranberries, exerting anti-oxidant effects and helping to protect against heart disease.
• Vitamin A is an important nutrient for the health of the top layer, or epidermis of the skin.
• Vitamin C contributes to skin health by maintaining collagen production in the body.
• Vitamin E when used topically can help to condition the skin and keep wrinkles at bay. When taken internally, Vitamin E acts as an anti-oxidant, and is also beneficial for heart health, doing this by helping to prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the arteries which can contribute to the development of conditions such as atherosclerosis.
• Ginkgo biloba is a popular herbal remedy which increases blood circulation to the brain and extremities, therefore increasing the distribution of nutrients and helping to improve brain function. Ginkgo biloba also acts as an anti-oxidant in the body. (Caution: Ginkgo biloba should not be taken by those on Warfarin).
• Fish oil provides the body with essential fatty acids or Omega 3 which is essential for brain, skin, and eye health and maintenance.
• Green tea is full of anti-oxidant rich compounds. Regular consumption of green tea has been associated with a reduced risk of cancer and heart disease. (Caution: Green tea can make anticoagulant medications less effective).
Other tips and ideas:
• Alongside supplementation, an active lifestyle, keeping the brain active, a healthy diet focussing on anti-oxidant rich fruits and vegetables, plenty of water, avoidance of smoking and trans-fats, and limiting sugar, alcohol and caffeine are the cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle and the key to staying young and youthful for longer. Focus on consuming nutrient dense foods such as berries, broccoli, kale, and spinach for extra nutritional support.