Essential dietary supplements, endorsed by a scientist specializing in gerontology, highly recommends.
In his golden years, Dr. David Clancy, a seasoned biogerontologist, takes matters of longevity and health into his own hands. With a keen understanding of aging science, he's got the lowdown on vitamins and minerals that can increase the chances for a lengthy, healthy life.
But what about those fancy pills most docs suggest we get from food first? Well, working in the anti-aging game means Dr. Clancy might be more inclined to supplement, especially when risks are minimal.
While eating nutrient-rich foods is ideal, he, and others in his field, might find the occasional supplement a helpful boost. Now, let's dive into some of the ones he's vouching for, along with the science behind their ties to healthy aging...
Ginkgo Biloba
A fan favorite in the supplement world, this ancient plant has been seen to support adrenal function, boost cognitive performance, and even aid in weight loss. It's not only been around for millions of years, but it's also been known to have hard-to-find health benefits, such as reducing stress and protecting from neurological diseases.
Its links to neurological protection can even include reversing stroke damage. As long as you're not on blood thinners, NSAIDs, or SSRIs, it's generally considered safe in moderate amounts.
Fish Oil
These omega-3 powerhouses have been linked to proper brain, blood pressure, and heart health. Some scientists even claim taking fish oil supplements can decrease the risk of heart attacks, coronary heart disease, and cardiovascular disease. If you hate the fishy burps, consider giving krill oil a try.
Magnesium
This essential nutrient plays a crucial role in managing the nervous system, maintaining heart health, and promoting better sleep. It's especially important as we age, as our bodies become less efficient at absorbing magnesium and more prone to deficiencies.
Medications, alcohol, and refined sugars can all interfere with magnesium absorption, potentially putting you at risk for diseases common in aging populations.
Vitamin B12
Crucial for red blood cell production and energy production in our cells, a deficiency can cause tiredness, depression, and memory problems. At a certain age, it's advisable to get your B12 levels checked and take supplements as necessary.
Folate
This B vitamin is essential for overall nervous system function and, as we age, our bodies may become less efficient at absorbing it. Fortunately, there's growing evidence that folate plays a significant role in maintaining mood and cognitive function in the aging brain.
Vitamin D
Essential for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation, this vitamin is crucial for healthy aging. It's primarily obtained through sunlight, but if you're not getting enough sun, you may need a supplement.
A deficiency can cause spinal degeneration and potentially increase the risk of dementia. Be cautious with supplements, though, as some forms of D2 and D3 can have questionable impacts on human health.
Supplements like Ginkgo Biloba, fish oil, magnesium, vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin D are often recommended by health professionals for healthy aging. Ginkgo Biloba, an ancient plant, is known for supporting adrenal function, boosting cognitive performance, and even aiding in weight loss. Fish oil, rich in omega-3, is linked to proper brain, blood pressure, and heart health.
Magnesium, an essential nutrient, plays a crucial role in managing the nervous system, maintaining heart health, and promoting better sleep, particularly important as we age. Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production and energy production in cells, and a deficiency can cause tiredness, depression, and memory problems, especially in older adults.
Folate, another B vitamin, is essential for nervous system function and maintaining mood and cognitive function in the aging brain. Vitamin D, vital for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation, is crucial for healthy aging, primarily obtained through sunlight, but supplements may be necessary for those not getting enough sun. However, it's important to exercise caution with certain forms of vitamin D supplements, as they may have questionable impacts on human health.
