The Beauty Society

Nutritional and dietary supplements exposed

There are a number of nutritional and dietary supplements that can be used as anti-aging aids;

Anti-oxidants:

Vitamins A, C and E are the most important anti-oxidants and are essential in any anti-aging regime. They can be found in fruit and vegetables such as blueberries, cherries and spinach. They work by eliminating free radicals in our body which are caused by toxins and radiation resulting in damage to our cells. Vitamin C has also been found to promote collagen production in the skin which gives a natural ‘plumped up’ look.

Essential fatty acids:

Omegas 3 and 6 found in oily fish and nuts are needed for healthy skin, hair, nails and brain function. We can only get these from our diet, so it is important to include them if you want to fight the signs of aging.

Anti-aging minerals:

Recent research has shown that aging may actually be the result of the decline of “anti-aging enzymes”. The minerals zinc found in pumpkin seeds and selenium found in brazil nuts are essential for the production of two of these enzymes known as Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione peroxidase.

Co-Enzyme Q-10:

Co-Enzyme Q-10 is another name for the nutrient ubiquinol. It is found in almost every one of our body's cells and we could not survive without it. It is an essential component of the energy producing mitochondria in our cells. Our liver is able to synthesise it but it is possible to get small quantities from our food. Co-enzyme Q-10 supplements are also available from most pharmacies.

Q10 has the ability to improve the health of the cardiovascular system, support the immune system and has also been shown to help in the treatment of Parkinson's disease, thus slowing down various aspects of the aging process.

Flavinoids:

Flavinoids are chemicals found in plants, fruits and vegetables that have a powerful anti-oxidant action. They have the ability to modify the body’s allergic response and immune systems. Research has shown that they provide anti-cancer activity as well as an anti-microbial response. Some popular foods containing flavinoids include red wine, tea and raspberries. Importantly for anti-aging flavinoids inhibit the breakdown of collagen, which is needed for youthful looking skin.

Amino Acids:

Amino Acids have anti-oxidant properties and can be found in meat and vegetables, especially spinach. They are the building blocks of proteins, which are crucial for the formation of enzymes, hormones and boosting the immune system.

Carotenoids:

Carotenoids are anti-oxidants more popularly known as Provitamin A. They are responsible for the colours of orange, yellow and red in fruit and vegetables. Most people have heard about Alpha-Carotene and Beta-Carotene which are sources of Vitamin A and can protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation and reduce the risk of DNA damage.

Super Antioxidants:

Some of the most powerful anti aging anti-oxidants are found in herbs, flowers, berries, spices and green foods. These include green tea, garlic, milk thistle, Gingko Biloba and cocoa.

Anti aging antioxidants help to slow down and prevent you from experiencing premature aging.