by Abbe Lang

 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 and inflammation, improve the immune system, and promote mental clarity.

 We can’t stay young forever, but at least we can slow down the aging process from the inside out. Here are some anti-aging vitamins and herbs that will help to keep one’s cells healthy as one ages:

 Melatonin – If we think of the pineal gland as our internal clock, it knows how old we are and 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 Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) – As we grow older, our CoQ10 levels naturally decline. Taking a CoQ10 supplement can make one less vulnerable to hardening of the arteries, which leads to heart disease, and improve one’s 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 our body, they also provide other essential nutrients that help slow down the aging process. One should aim for a half cup per day; if one doesn’t like blueberries, one should 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 that 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. 

Multivitamin – taking a high-quality multivitamin is inexpensive insurance to ensure that we are getting all the nutrients our body needs. According to the National Institutes of Health, studies show that women that take a multivitamin 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, we can take the aforementioned supplements to live longer and to live well.

 Abbe Lang is a fully certified professional life coach. She works with clients in South New Jersey, New York, Florida and the New York metropolitan area. Her specialties include health and wellness coaching, relationship coaching, homeopathy, business sales and marketing, and group coaching. To set up a free coaching call, call 856-452-3434. For more information, visit AbbeLang.com.