Antioxidants, healthy ageing & 7 hero nutrients unpacked

‘Healthy ageing’ and ‘longevity’ are big buzzwords, right now. And for those of us who are interested in optimising our health as we age, research increasingly points towards antioxidants as key players in that journey. 

But what are antioxidants, exactly, why are they so important, and how can we make sure we’re getting enough of them?

What are antioxidants?

In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that help protect your body by neutralising harmful molecules called free radicals. These free radicals are produced by your body during normal metabolic processes and are also introduced through external factors like pollution and UV rays. 

Without antioxidants, free radicals can cause damage to cells, leading to various health issues and accelerating the ageing process.

For the latest science with a focus on supplementation, we’ve turned to the team at Phytoceutics. Their range of natural, clean-label healthy ageing products has been specifically formulated to support longevity and help your body manage the natural ageing process whilst promoting a healthy life.

Here’s their deep dive into how antioxidants contribute to healthy ageing, what benefits they offer, and seven top nutrient picks that could become your ageing allies.

What do antioxidants do?

Antioxidants are vital for maintaining good health, as they help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. 

Here are some of the main benefits of antioxidants, explained in simple terms.

• Disease prevention: Antioxidants have been shown to lower the risk of chronic diseases by protecting cells from oxidative damage.
• Boosting immunity: By defending immune cells, antioxidants can enhance your body’s ability to fight infections.
• Skin health: There is evidence that certain antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, can protect your skin from harmful UV rays and pollution.
• Eye health: Specific antioxidants have been found to boost eye health, and protect your eyes from conditions like macular degeneration.
• Brain function: Antioxidants may protect your brain cells from oxidative stress.

Antioxidants also promote healthy ageing by protecting against oxidative stress. But – getting specific here – how does this work, exactly?

Do antioxidants prevent ageing?

While antioxidants can’t stop ageing entirely, they can certainly help slow down its effects. 

Ageing is a natural process, but oxidative stress – caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body – can accelerate it. 

Antioxidants work by donating electrons to free radicals, stabilising them and preventing them from causing further damage to your cells.

Top benefits of antioxidants for ageing and longevity 

Longevity refers to both the length of a person’s life (lifespan) and the quality of their health during that time (healthspan). It’s not just about living longer, but also staying healthy and free from serious diseases as we age. 

While genetics play a role in longevity, accounting for 20-30%, lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, and habits such as smoking or alcohol consumption are crucial factors.

So, incorporating antioxidants into your diet is a great way to check tick that lifestyle box, and to reap the benefits of their powerful support for healthy ageing. 

Not only do they help reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to age-related conditions like heart disease, neurodegeneration and chronic diseases, but they also support ageing eyes by lowering the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration, as well as help delay cognitive decline by keeping your mind sharp – safeguarding your brain from oxidative stress.

Also, antioxidants help to slow visible signs of ageing on the skin, like wrinkles and age spots.

Which antioxidant is best for anti-ageing?

The benefits of antioxidants for anti-ageing are clear – but which is best? The answer is – it depends!

Overall, a diet rich in antioxidants is essential for maintaining baseline health and protecting your body from the effects of oxidative stress – from minor skin ageing, to more serious conditions like cancer and heart disease.

Looking at diet, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains are great for providing that rich mix of antioxidants to promote health and longevity. Research shows that diets rich in antioxidants can significantly reduce oxidative stress, while other studies highlight their potential to slow cognitive decline.

However, while diet tweaks can go a long way, supplements can also be beneficial for addressing key gaps and specific concerns associated with ageing. 

Let’s look at seven antioxidant-rich nutrients that could support your healthy ageing journey, along with our top supplement picks for each one.

7 hero nutrients for healthy ageing

1. NMN + Fisetin

This combination is thought to promote longevity by improving cellular function and supporting DNA repair. Research is ongoing, but early studies show potential for enhancing lifespan and healthspan.

Supplement pick: Phytopure™ NMN + Fisetin ADVANCED

2. Resveratrol

Often found in grapes and red wine, resveratrol has gained attention for its potential to improve heart health and mimic the effects of calorie restriction, a known factor in increasing lifespan.

Supplement pick: Reversatrol™

3. Quercetin

A powerful antioxidant found in fruits like apples and onions, quercetin helps reduce inflammation and supports healthy ageing by protecting cells from oxidative stress.

Supplement pick: Phytopure® Quercetin with Pomegranate

4. Glutathione

Known as the “master antioxidant,” glutathione is naturally produced in your body and plays a crucial role in neutralising free radicals. It also supports immune function and detoxification processes.

Supplement pick: Coyne Biomax® Glutathione Liposomal

5. Vitamin C

Besides being a really key player in immune health, vitamin C also supports collagen production, which helps maintain skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.

Supplement pick: Coyne Biomax® Vitamin C Liposomal 

6. Curcumin

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can help protect the skin and support brain health, making it an excellent nutrient for healthy ageing.

Supplement pick: Coyne Bio-Curcumin Advanced® with BCM95® & AKBAMAX® 60s

7. Omega-3 fatty acids

Found in fish like salmon and flaxseeds, omega-3s help maintain skin hydration and elasticity, while also supporting heart and brain health.

Supplement pick: Coyne Purest Omega 3

Are there any precautions with antioxidant supplements?

While antioxidants from food sources are beneficial, some studies suggest that high-dose antioxidant supplements may pose risks.

For example, certain supplements, like beta-carotene, have been linked to an increased risk of cancer in smokers. Additionally, some evidence suggests that taking antioxidant supplements in large amounts can interfere with the benefits of exercise.

As we’ve hinted already, it’s always best to focus on a balanced diet rich in antioxidants from whole foods. If you’re considering supplements, consult with a healthcare provider to ensure you’re making the best choice for your needs.

The bottom line

Antioxidants are essential for healthy ageing, protecting your cells from oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. While they won’t stop ageing, they can support your body’s natural defences and promote longevity. 

Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and topping up with supplements can be a powerful step towards maintaining vitality and wellbeing as you age.

Looking to get started with supplementation? Make Phytoceutics your go-to – their healthy ageing and antioxidant products offer multiple health benefits and support for longevity that you can rely on.