For years, scientists believed aging was a foregone conclusion and out of our control. Recent research, however, indicates that we have more authority over the aging process than previously realized. In fact, aging has more to do with the stress and function of our cells than it does with the number of candles on our birthday cake. The best way to protect cells involves consumption of potent antioxidants, many of which are available in plant-based foods.
Antioxidants and Aging
By now, you’ve probably heard the buzz about antioxidants. These compounds, while promising, aren’t the only solution to the aging process, nor are they the magic bullet when it comes to good health. Antioxidants are, however, potent compounds that aid an overall healthy lifestyle by supporting cellular health. They are indicated as powerful molecules that support healthy aging in more ways than one.
1. Astragalus Root
A chemical in astragalus root, TAT2, stimulates the production of telomerase, an enzyme that aids telomere repair. Short telomeres indicate damaged DNA and are the key contributors to increased cellular aging. Astragalus root also supports the liver’s toxin-removing actions. The increased urine flow flushes the kidneys and prevents toxin buildup.
2. Resveratrol
The French Paradox made resveratrol famous for its role in promoting longevity. Present in red wine, chocolate, and peanuts, resveratrol is unique among antioxidants for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and deliver potent soothing properties and free radical scavenging actions directly to brain cells. Its effect mimics caloric restriction, a proven anti-aging dietary strategy.
3. Pterostilbene
4. Pyrroloquinoline Quinone (PQQ) Disodium Salt
Often called PQQ Na, this non-protein co-enzyme facilitates cellular metabolic processes and stimulates mitochondrial regeneration, an essential factor in slowing the aging process. It also neutralizes free radicals and reactive oxygen species compounds that expedite physical aging. [2]
5. Digestive and Systemic Enzymes
Digestive enzymes work only in the digestive tract, while systemic enzymes support digestion and also enter the bloodstream to clear toxins and irritants. Systemic enzymes, also called proteolytic enzymes, support immune function and countless other processes in the body.
6. R-lipoic Acid
7. Pomegranate Extract
Anthocyanins give pomegranates their red color and offer a strong serving of antioxidants. Punicalagins specifically support cardiovascular and neurological health. [3]
8. Tibetan Rhodiola
Tibetan monks consider Rhodiola the supreme herb. Two potent compounds in the herb–salidroside and rosavin–act as antioxidants, protect nerves and brain cells, encourage physical performance, and boost feelings of well being.
9. CoQ10
Every cell in the body requires Coenzyme Q10 to produce ATP. As a factor in the metabolic process, it acts as an antioxidant to neutralize free radicals protecting the cell, DNA, and mitochondria from oxidative damage.
A Final Thought
The human body naturally produces several of these antioxidants: CoQ10, PQQ, R-lipoic acid, and the digestive and systemic enzymes. Often, environmental and dietary toxins (such as HFCS, aspartame, MSG, etc.) overload the body’s stores of these native antioxidants. This leads to less than stellar health in more ways than one.
Do you supplement with antioxidants? Please let us know which ones in the comments!
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References (3)
- Denise McCormack and David McFadden. A Review of Pterostilbene Antioxidant Activity and Disease Modification. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2013; 2013: 575482.
- Zhang JJ1, Zhang RF, Meng XK. Protective effect of pyrroloquinoline quinone against Abeta-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. Neurosci Lett. 2009 Oct 30;464(3):165-9. doi: 10.1016/j.neulet.2009.08.037.
- Liu W1, Ma H, Frost L, Yuan T, Dain JA, Seeram NP. Pomegranate phenolics inhibit formation of advanced glycation endproducts by scavenging reactive carbonyl species.Food Funct. 2014 Sep 18.
Dr. Eddy Bettermann MD 
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