15 Anti Aging Supplements Worth Buying 2022
The anti-aging supplements that may be worth buying according to health experts, from NMN to zinc.
So, how can you try and combat aging’s toll on the body? Although there are no magic pills, there are some anti-aging supplements that can help support a healthy immune system.
Our health experts weigh in on the products they recommend to optimize your health. Remember, you should always consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
Research suggests that levels of CoQ10 decline as you age, and supplementing with it has been shown to improve certain aspects of health in older individuals.
For example, a study in 443 older adults demonstrated that supplementing with CoQ10 and selenium over 4 years improved their overall quality of life, reduced hospital visits, and slowed the deterioration of physical and mental performance (Trusted Source).
CoQ10 supplements help reduce oxidative stress, a condition characterized by an accumulation of free radicals and other reactive molecules that accelerates the aging process and onset of age-related disease (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Though CoQ10 shows promise as an anti-aging supplement, more evidence is needed before it can be recommended as a natural way to delay aging.
Be sure to consult a trusted healthcare professional before giving it a try.
Among EGCG’s diverse array of potential health-promoting properties is its ability to promote longevity and protect against age-related disease development.
EGCG may slow aging by restoring mitochondrial function in cells and acting on pathways involved in aging, including the AMP-activated protein kinase signaling pathway (AMPK).
It also induces autophagy, the process by which your body removes damaged cellular material (Trusted Source).
Green tea intake has been associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality, diabetes, stroke, and heart-disease-related death. Plus, animal studies have shown that it can protect against skin aging and wrinkles caused by ultraviolet (UV) light (Trusted Source, Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
EGCG can be consumed by drinking green tea or taking concentrated supplements.
Collagen is promoted as a fountain of youth for its potential to reduce the appearance of skin aging.
It’s an integral component of your skin that helps maintain skin structure. As you age, collagen production slows, leading to collagen loss in the skin that accelerates signs of aging like wrinkles.
Some research suggests that supplementing with collagen may reduce signs of aging, including wrinkles and dry skin.
For example, a 2019 study in 72 women demonstrated that taking a supplement that contained 2.5 grams of collagen — along with several other ingredients, including biotin — per day for 12 weeks significantly improved skin hydration, roughness, and elasticity (Trusted Source).
Another study in 114 women found that treatment with 2.5 grams of collagen peptides for 8 weeks significantly reduced eye wrinkles and increased collagen levels in the skin (Trusted Source).
Though these results are promising, keep in mind that many collagen studies are funded by companies that manufacture collagen products, which may influence study results.
Many types of collagen supplements are on the market, including powders and capsules.
Cysteine is found in most high-protein foods, such as chicken, turkey, yogurt, cheese, eggs, sunflower seeds and legumes.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a supplement form of cysteine.
Consuming adequate cysteine and NAC is important for a variety of health reasons — including replenishing the most powerful antioxidant in your body, glutathione. These amino acids also help with chronic respiratory conditions, fertility and brain health.
NAC is valued primarily for its role in antioxidant production. Along with two other amino acids — glutamine and glycine — NAC is needed to make and replenish glutathione.
Glutathione is one of the body’s most important antioxidants, which helps neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues in your body.
It’s essential for immune health and fighting cellular damage. Some researchers believe it may even contribute to longevity (Trusted Source).
Its antioxidant properties are also important for combatting numerous other ailments caused by oxidative stress, such as heart disease, infertility and some psychiatric conditions (Trusted Source).
Crocin is a yellow carotenoid pigment in saffron, a popular, pricey spice that’s commonly used in Indian and Spanish cuisine.
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world — with 1 pound (450 grams) costing between 500 and 5,000 U.S. dollars. Saffron contains an impressive variety of plant compounds that act as antioxidants — molecules that protect your cells against free radicals and oxidative stress.
Human and animal studies have shown that crocin offers many health benefits, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antidiabetic effects (Trusted Source).
Aside from the properties listed above, crocin has been researched for its potential to act as an anti-aging compound and protect against age-related mental decline (Trusted Source).
Test-tube and rodent studies have demonstrated that crocin helps prevent age-related nerve damage by inhibiting the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are compounds that contribute to the aging process (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Crocin has also been shown to help prevent aging in human skin cells by reducing inflammation and protecting against UV-light-induced cellular damage (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Given that saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, a more cost-effective way to boost your crocin intake is by taking a concentrated saffron supplement.
It displays powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties in clinical trials. Resveratrol also enhances sirtuin function (R).
While some studies suggest that taking certain supplements may help slow aging, the best way to promote longevity and overall health is to engage in healthy practices like consuming a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and reducing stress.
Online Shopping Guide
Before adding a new supplement to your routine, discuss its use with your healthcare provider, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking medication.
Anti-aging supplements worth buying
There’s an abundance of over-the-counter anti-aging products that promise to delay the effects of aging. The skin can visibly show aging’s effect with the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and dark circles. But, as you get older, there are other parts of the body that are also affected, including the joints and the brain.So, how can you try and combat aging’s toll on the body? Although there are no magic pills, there are some anti-aging supplements that can help support a healthy immune system.
Our health experts weigh in on the products they recommend to optimize your health. Remember, you should always consult a doctor before taking any supplements.
1. Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)
Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) is needed to make NAD+.
NAD+ is a very important substance in the cells. It provides energy for cells and is also a cofactor for proteins that repair and maintain our epigenome and our DNA.
The epigenome is the intricate machinery that surrounds the DNA and that determines which genes are active. During aging, the epigenome becomes more and more dysregulated.
NMN also improves the functioning of our mitochondria, the power plants of our cells.
NMN improves metabolism and reduces inflammation.
The older we get, the less NAD+ is present in our cells. Taking in NMN can increase NAD+ levels.
Various studies show that NMN has beneficial effects on aging diseases and symptoms (R,R,R,R).
For example, long term administration of NMN mitigated age-associated decline in mice: NMN reduced the typical age-associated increase in body weight, improved energy metabolism, improved lipids in the blood and insulin sensitivity and ameliorated eye function (R).
NMN can also improve aging-related decline in fertility (R), improve bone health (R) and vascular health (R,R,R).
NAD+ is a very important substance in the cells. It provides energy for cells and is also a cofactor for proteins that repair and maintain our epigenome and our DNA.
The epigenome is the intricate machinery that surrounds the DNA and that determines which genes are active. During aging, the epigenome becomes more and more dysregulated.
NMN also improves the functioning of our mitochondria, the power plants of our cells.
NMN improves metabolism and reduces inflammation.
The older we get, the less NAD+ is present in our cells. Taking in NMN can increase NAD+ levels.
Various studies show that NMN has beneficial effects on aging diseases and symptoms (R,R,R,R).
For example, long term administration of NMN mitigated age-associated decline in mice: NMN reduced the typical age-associated increase in body weight, improved energy metabolism, improved lipids in the blood and insulin sensitivity and ameliorated eye function (R).
NMN can also improve aging-related decline in fertility (R), improve bone health (R) and vascular health (R,R,R).
Related: Best NMN Supplement
2. Curcumin (Turmeric)
Curcumin — the main active compound in turmeric — has been shown to possess powerful anti-aging properties, which are attributed to its potent antioxidant potential.
Cellular senescence occurs when cells stop dividing. As you age, senescent cells accumulate, which is believed to accelerate aging and disease progression (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Research demonstrates that curcumin activates certain proteins, including sirtuins and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps delay cellular senescence and promotes longevity (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Plus, curcumin has been shown to combat cellular damage and significantly increase the lifespan of fruit flies, roundworms, and mice. This compound has been shown to postpone age-related disease and alleviate age-related symptoms as well (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
This may be why turmeric intake has been associated with a reduced risk of age-related mental decline in humans (Trusted Source).
You can increase your curcumin intake by using turmeric in recipes or taking curcumin supplements.
Cellular senescence occurs when cells stop dividing. As you age, senescent cells accumulate, which is believed to accelerate aging and disease progression (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Research demonstrates that curcumin activates certain proteins, including sirtuins and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which helps delay cellular senescence and promotes longevity (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Plus, curcumin has been shown to combat cellular damage and significantly increase the lifespan of fruit flies, roundworms, and mice. This compound has been shown to postpone age-related disease and alleviate age-related symptoms as well (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
This may be why turmeric intake has been associated with a reduced risk of age-related mental decline in humans (Trusted Source).
You can increase your curcumin intake by using turmeric in recipes or taking curcumin supplements.
Buy on Amazon > Turmeric (curcumin) supplement
3. Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that your body produces. It plays essential roles in energy production and protects against cellular damage (Trusted Source).Research suggests that levels of CoQ10 decline as you age, and supplementing with it has been shown to improve certain aspects of health in older individuals.
For example, a study in 443 older adults demonstrated that supplementing with CoQ10 and selenium over 4 years improved their overall quality of life, reduced hospital visits, and slowed the deterioration of physical and mental performance (Trusted Source).
CoQ10 supplements help reduce oxidative stress, a condition characterized by an accumulation of free radicals and other reactive molecules that accelerates the aging process and onset of age-related disease (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Though CoQ10 shows promise as an anti-aging supplement, more evidence is needed before it can be recommended as a natural way to delay aging.
Be sure to consult a trusted healthcare professional before giving it a try.
Buy on Amazon > CoQ10
4. EGCG (Green Tea Extract)
Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a well-known polyphenol compound concentrated in green tea. It offers impressive health benefits, with research supporting its use to reduce the risk of certain cancers, as well as other health conditions like heart disease (Trusted Source, Trusted Source, Trusted Source).Among EGCG’s diverse array of potential health-promoting properties is its ability to promote longevity and protect against age-related disease development.
EGCG may slow aging by restoring mitochondrial function in cells and acting on pathways involved in aging, including the AMP-activated protein kinase signaling pathway (AMPK).
It also induces autophagy, the process by which your body removes damaged cellular material (Trusted Source).
Green tea intake has been associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality, diabetes, stroke, and heart-disease-related death. Plus, animal studies have shown that it can protect against skin aging and wrinkles caused by ultraviolet (UV) light (Trusted Source, Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
EGCG can be consumed by drinking green tea or taking concentrated supplements.
5. Collagen
Buy on Amazon > Collagen SupplementCollagen is promoted as a fountain of youth for its potential to reduce the appearance of skin aging.
It’s an integral component of your skin that helps maintain skin structure. As you age, collagen production slows, leading to collagen loss in the skin that accelerates signs of aging like wrinkles.
Some research suggests that supplementing with collagen may reduce signs of aging, including wrinkles and dry skin.
For example, a 2019 study in 72 women demonstrated that taking a supplement that contained 2.5 grams of collagen — along with several other ingredients, including biotin — per day for 12 weeks significantly improved skin hydration, roughness, and elasticity (Trusted Source).
Another study in 114 women found that treatment with 2.5 grams of collagen peptides for 8 weeks significantly reduced eye wrinkles and increased collagen levels in the skin (Trusted Source).
Though these results are promising, keep in mind that many collagen studies are funded by companies that manufacture collagen products, which may influence study results.
Many types of collagen supplements are on the market, including powders and capsules.
6. NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine)
Cysteine is a semi-essential amino acid. It’s considered semi-essential because your body can produce it from other amino acids, namely methionine and serine. It becomes essential only when the dietary intake of methionine and serine is low.Cysteine is found in most high-protein foods, such as chicken, turkey, yogurt, cheese, eggs, sunflower seeds and legumes.
N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) is a supplement form of cysteine.
Consuming adequate cysteine and NAC is important for a variety of health reasons — including replenishing the most powerful antioxidant in your body, glutathione. These amino acids also help with chronic respiratory conditions, fertility and brain health.
NAC is valued primarily for its role in antioxidant production. Along with two other amino acids — glutamine and glycine — NAC is needed to make and replenish glutathione.
Glutathione is one of the body’s most important antioxidants, which helps neutralize free radicals that can damage cells and tissues in your body.
It’s essential for immune health and fighting cellular damage. Some researchers believe it may even contribute to longevity (Trusted Source).
Its antioxidant properties are also important for combatting numerous other ailments caused by oxidative stress, such as heart disease, infertility and some psychiatric conditions (Trusted Source).
NAC is likely safe for adults when provided as a prescription medication.
However, high amounts may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation (Trusted Source).
When inhaled, it can cause swelling in the mouth, runny nose, drowsiness and chest tightness.
People with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinning medications should not take NAC, as it may slow blood clotting (Trusted Source).
NAC has an unpleasant smell that makes it hard to consume. If you choose to take it, consult with your doctor first.
However, high amounts may cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and constipation (Trusted Source).
When inhaled, it can cause swelling in the mouth, runny nose, drowsiness and chest tightness.
People with bleeding disorders or taking blood thinning medications should not take NAC, as it may slow blood clotting (Trusted Source).
NAC has an unpleasant smell that makes it hard to consume. If you choose to take it, consult with your doctor first.
7. Crocin (Saffron)
Buy on Amazon > Saffron SupplementCrocin is a yellow carotenoid pigment in saffron, a popular, pricey spice that’s commonly used in Indian and Spanish cuisine.
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world — with 1 pound (450 grams) costing between 500 and 5,000 U.S. dollars. Saffron contains an impressive variety of plant compounds that act as antioxidants — molecules that protect your cells against free radicals and oxidative stress.
Human and animal studies have shown that crocin offers many health benefits, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and antidiabetic effects (Trusted Source).
Aside from the properties listed above, crocin has been researched for its potential to act as an anti-aging compound and protect against age-related mental decline (Trusted Source).
Test-tube and rodent studies have demonstrated that crocin helps prevent age-related nerve damage by inhibiting the production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are compounds that contribute to the aging process (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Crocin has also been shown to help prevent aging in human skin cells by reducing inflammation and protecting against UV-light-induced cellular damage (Trusted Source, Trusted Source).
Given that saffron is the most expensive spice in the world, a more cost-effective way to boost your crocin intake is by taking a concentrated saffron supplement.
8. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a polyphenol in grapes, berries, peanuts, and red wine that may promote longevity by activating certain genes called sirtuins. It has been shown to increase the lifespan of fruit flies, yeasts, and nematodes (Source).
It displays powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties in clinical trials. Resveratrol also enhances sirtuin function (R).
Buy on Amazon > Resveratrol Supplement
It was already discovered that hydrogen can prolong the life of stem cells by reducing oxidative stress [R].
A hydrogen-rich environment reduced both oxidative stress and aging in cells. Some scientists think
that drinking hydrogen water could increase longevity in humans (Circ J. 2016).
Olive leaf extract is a natural source of wellness with therapeutic properties that are:
“We [in the medical community] are beginning to realize the anti-inflammatory effects of vitamin D,” says Amanda Frick, a licensed naturopathic doctor and acupuncturist in Santa Monica, California. It builds bone, boosts immunity, guards against chronic ailments, and is responsible for increasing absorption of calcium and magnesium. If you’re still not sold on vitamin D as one of the anti-aging supplements to add to your regimen, Frick says it can also assist with weight loss when combined with lifestyle intervention.
Theoretically, we should get enough vitamin D through our diet and from the sun, but for many of us, that’s not the case. In the United States, 35% of adults and 61% of people over the age of 65 are deficient in vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis, weakness, and bone fractures in the elderly, among other things. Recent studies also show a link between vitamin D deficiency and cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer (Sizar, 2020).
Some studies have shown links between vitamin D supplements and lower blood pressure, decreased symptoms of depression, better cognitive function, and stronger muscles (Nair, 2012).
9. Molecular Hydrogen
Molecular hydrogen is the smallest anti-oxidant. The ability of molecular hydrogen (H2) to protect the DNA and the mitochondria from oxidative damage may have beneficial effects on chronic diseases and cancer. But perhaps it could help slow down or reverse the aging process itself. A couple of cellular studies give us some interesting clues [R, R].It was already discovered that hydrogen can prolong the life of stem cells by reducing oxidative stress [R].
A hydrogen-rich environment reduced both oxidative stress and aging in cells. Some scientists think
that drinking hydrogen water could increase longevity in humans (Circ J. 2016).
10. L-Citrulline and Olive Leaf Extract
L-citrulline is a naturally occurring amino acid found in some foods like watermelons and is also produced naturally by the body. Citrulline can promote heart health by widening your blood vessels. It can also improve your exercise performance and may play a role in muscle building (Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2017). After citrulline is consumed, some is converted to another amino acid called arginine. Arginine is converted into a molecule called nitric oxide, which causes vasodilation of blood vessels by relaxing the smooth muscle cells that constrict them (Nitric Oxide. 2015). Though research has found both arginine and citrulline to boost levels of nitric oxide (NO) in the body, most recent research—like this The Journal of Nutrition study—shows that citrulline actually delivers the most benefit. The body use arginine for a variety of functions, so it doesn’t use all of the arginine it absorbs to produce NO. Plus, unlike citrulline, higher doses of arginine have been linked to gastrointestinal problems. Because it tends to be poorly absorbed, arginine can even lead to diarrhea when consumed in large amounts.Olive leaf extract is a natural source of wellness with therapeutic properties that are:
- gastroprotective (protects digestive system)
- neuroprotective (protects central nervous system)
- antimicrobial (inhibits microorganism growth)
- anticancer (reduces risk of cancer)
- anti-inflammatory (reduces risk of inflammation)
- antinociceptive (reduces pain stimuli)
- antioxidant (prevents oxidation or cell damage)
11. Vitamin D
Some studies have shown links between vitamin D supplements and lower blood pressure, decreased symptoms of depression, better cognitive function, and stronger muscles (Nair, 2012).
12. Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a natural compound found in healthy cartilage. When taken orally, it may reduce arthritis pain, lessen swelling, ease stiffness, and lubricate joints. “I personally take 1,500 milligrams of glucosamine daily for a bad knee,” says Richard Honaker, MD, a family-practice physician in Charlottesville, Virginia.13. Fish oil
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil is a multitasking powerhouse that supports immune, cardiovascular, joint, vision, and metabolic function. A growing body of evidence indicates that it has positive effects on mood and memory. And, of course, we’d be remiss not to mention its beauty-boosting benefits for skin, hair, and nails. Fish oil also helps with preserving the length of telomeres, the protective caps at the end of chromosomes that keep DNA stable and shorten with age. “As with vitamin B12, you can’t make your own omega-3 fatty acids, so supplements are a must,” says Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf contributor in New York City.14. Zinc
Perhaps you take zinc when you have a sore throat, but this essential trace element is necessary for overall well-being. According to New York City-based plastic surgeon Michelle Yagoda, MD, it’s imperative for proper immune function, digestion, and sense of taste. And it’s even more important as you get older, which is why it’s included on our list of anti-aging supplements. Nutritional deficiency can leave you open to age-related chronic illnesses, including atherosclerosis, immunosenescence (weakening of the immune system), and cancer.15. Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for regulating insulin levels and blood pressure. It also supports restful sleep. “Magnesium citrate powder is highly absorbable and can help restore depleted levels,” notes Carolyn Dean, MD and naturopathic doctor. Bonus: It can be mixed with hot or cold water and sipped before bed.Wrapping It Up
Certain supplements may help slow the aging process and promote a long, healthy life.While some studies suggest that taking certain supplements may help slow aging, the best way to promote longevity and overall health is to engage in healthy practices like consuming a nutritious diet, engaging in regular exercise, and reducing stress.
Online Shopping Guide
Before adding a new supplement to your routine, discuss its use with your healthcare provider, especially if you have an underlying health condition or are taking medication.
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