Antioxidants and Aging
By now, you’ve probably heard the buzz about antioxidants. These powerful compounds counteract free radical damage to your cells, promoting overall health and supporting healthy aging in multiple ways. Let’s explore some of the top anti-aging antioxidants you should consider.
Astragalus Root
Astragalus root contains a compound called TAT2, which stimulates your cells to produce telomerase, an enzyme essential for telomere repair. Telomeres are found in each cell, and shorter ones indicate damaged DNA, contributing to cellular aging. Additionally, astragalus root supports liver function, enhancing the removal of toxins by stimulating increased urine flow, which helps flush the kidneys and prevent toxin buildup.
Resveratrol
Resveratrol gained fame from the “French Paradox,” where the French enjoy abundant red wine yet have lower rates of heart disease. Found in red wine, grapes, grape juice, and dark chocolate, resveratrol is notable for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, delivering potent soothing properties and scavenging free radicals in brain cells. Its effects mimic those of caloric restriction, an anti-aging dietary strategy similar to intermittent fasting.
Pterostilbene
Similar to resveratrol, pterostilbene may be an even more powerful antioxidant. It also mimics the effects of caloric restriction, which slows aging and promotes healing. Researchers have found it highly effective in protecting and rejuvenating brain cells and promoting normal blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ)
Known as PQQ Na, this non-protein co-enzyme plays a crucial role in cellular metabolic processes and stimulates mitochondrial regeneration, a key factor in slowing aging. PQQ neutralizes free radicals and reactive oxygen species, compounds that expedite physical aging.
CoQ10
Every cell in your body needs Coenzyme Q10 to produce ATP. As a vital part of the metabolic process, CoQ10 acts as an antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals and protecting cells, DNA, and mitochondria from oxidative damage. Combining CoQ10 with PQQ is even more effective than using each individually. Global Healing’s CoQ10 & BioPQQ with Shilajit combines these powerful antioxidants, with Shilajit from the Himalayas enhancing their bioavailability.
Digestive and Systemic Enzymes
Digestive enzymes work solely in the digestive tract, while systemic enzymes support digestion and enter the bloodstream to clear toxins and irritants. These enzymes also support immune function and various other processes in the body.
Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is available in two forms: r-lipoic acid (the most bioavailable and bioactive form) and s-lipoic acid. ALA plays a crucial role in mitochondrial energy production, making it vital for the cellular life cycle. Inadequate levels lead to faster aging. Like other mitochondrial compounds, alpha-lipoic acid has a strong antioxidant effect.
Pomegranate Extract
Pomegranates owe their red color to anthocyanins, which offer a strong dose of antioxidants. Punicalagins in pomegranates specifically support cardiovascular and neurological health.
Tibetan Rhodiola
Tibetan monks regard Rhodiola as the supreme herb. It contains two potent compounds, salidroside and rosavin, which act as antioxidants, protect nerves and brain cells, enhance physical performance, and boost feelings of wellbeing.
Points to Remember
The human body naturally produces several of these antioxidants, such as CoQ10, PQQ, R-lipoic acid, and digestive and systemic enzymes. However, these antioxidants decline naturally with age, making supplementation beneficial. Environmental and dietary toxins, such as HFCS, aspartame, and MSG, can also deplete your body’s antioxidant stores, leading to suboptimal health in various ways.
For more information, check out an in-depth video on how to stay young and healthy.