One of the simplest ways to slow down the aging process is to provide the body with all the nutrients it requires. One vital function of nutrients is to repair DNA and RNA at the cellular level. Ideally, we should obtain essential nutrients from our diet. However, it is becoming harder and harder to obtain nutrients from the processed and packed foods available in the market. Today there are available a number of supplements, such as melatonin, green tea extracts, fish oil, lipoic acid, folic acid and selenium, that help provide the required levels of nutrition. Each of these supplements has its own benefits. Fish oil helps in reducing heart and blood vessel disorders, while protecting blood flow through arteries. Green tea extracts, according to scientific findings, help in maintaining cellular DNA and membrane structural integrity. They also prevent the growth of detrimental cell colonies. In addition, green tea extracts contains catechins, of which the most potent is Epigallacatechin gallate, an antioxidant more powerful than vitamins C or E. Melatonin is another highly potent antioxidant, produced by the pineal gland located beneath the brain. It is released every night, and helps in inducing sleep and recuperating from fatigue. Melatonin is also scientifically proven as significant in protecting against age-related degenerative diseases. Lipoic acid, another potent antioxidant, helps in the recycling of other antioxidants such as vitamin E, into their original forms after they detoxify free radicals from the system. Supplements have proven to be beneficial in our fight against the aging process. However, the controversy surrounding their use has made it difficult to determine their value. Although many of these supplements help avert conditions associated with old age, it cannot be positively stated that they are without any side effects. |
