The Art of Aging Well: A Holistic Perspective on Longevity

There are many factors that influence how your body ages. Physical activity, for instance, has been proven to be a major contributor to “healthy aging,” a term defined by researchers as “high physical, psychological, and social functioning in old age.” Studies involving older adults show that physically active individuals have higher odds of aging well than those with sedentary lifestyles.

Sleep is another major factor influencing physical and mental health among older adults. According to a study published in the journal Clinical Gerontologist, adults who enjoy quality sleep at night are more likely to stay healthy later in life than those who suffer from poor sleep.

Diet and nutrition also play a huge role in healthy aging. Poor diets rich in processed foods have been linked to faster biological aging. Meanwhile, healthy diets high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, unsaturated fats, nuts, and legumes are associated with a higher likelihood of healthy aging, underscoring the importance of nutrition in maintaining optimal health in your golden years.

Here are six of the most important nutrients for ensuring successful aging, according to science:

Collagen

Collagen is a fibrous protein your body naturally synthesizes using dietary protein. For this process to take place, protein from food is first digested into smaller molecules called amino acids, which serve as raw materials for new proteins. Various tissues, such as your skin, muscles, bones, and connective tissues, rely on collagen for structural support and strength.

Astaxanthin

Astaxanthin is often described as the most powerful antioxidant on earth, with an unparalleled capacity to neutralize free radicals. Research reveals that astaxanthin is 800 times stronger than coenzyme Q10, a vitamin-like antioxidant molecule produced by the body, 75 times more potent than alpha-lipoic acid, a natural compound involved in your body’s antioxidant defense, and 6,000 times stronger than vitamin C. Its unrivaled antioxidant activity makes this marine-derived carotenoid deserving of the title “king of antioxidants.”

Magnesium

Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in the human body. A necessary participant in over 600 enzymatic reactions and various cellular processes, magnesium is an essential nutrient for the normal functioning of multiple organ systems, including the muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, and immune systems. Magnesium is also important for maintaining strong and healthy bones.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM)

Methylsulfonylmethane is a sulfur-containing compound that occurs naturally. Today, it is widely used as a dietary supplement to help ensure sufficient sulfur intake. Your body uses sulfur to produce many biomolecules, particularly sulfur-containing amino acids such as cysteine, homocysteine, methionine, and taurine. These amino acids are required for the synthesis of antioxidants that protect your cells from within, including glutathione and N-acetylcysteine.

Vitamins B9 (Folate) and B12

B vitamins are essential nutrients involved in your body’s energy production and play important roles in maintaining overall health. Two B vitamins in particular, B9 and B12, have been shown to support healthy aging. Ironically, deficiencies in these nutrients are common in older adults due to poor diet, malabsorption, and reduced bioavailability.

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