Aging touches all the cells, tissues, and organs in the body. With age, changes such as loss of muscle mass, a slower metabolism, lower bone density, and, of course, forgetfulness become evident in many people.
Natural remedies and supplements can help not only to prolong life but also to improve its quality. Basic things like having a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are important. Supplements would serve as a backup for a healthy lifestyle, bridging the gaps in the nutrition one gets from food.
Tackling Joint Pain with Natural Solutions
Joint pain is that crack in the knee when climbing stairs. Or the stiffness in fingers after a long drive. Discomfort—such as that experienced by many people with arthritis—usually originates from the wearing down of protective cartilage in the joints, which happens naturally with age.
Turmeric is more than just a bright yellow color found in curry dishes. One of the most potent natural anti-inflammatory substances is turmeric. Its active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to help some patients with arthritis by managing inflammation and relieving pain. For the cooks among you, simply adding turmeric to dishes would be an easy and delicious way to gain some relief. Curcumin supplements, which are available, tend to be more concentrated.
You can find omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, flaxseeds, and walnuts. These substances are known to have anti-inflammatory properties, and as such, they may aid in joint lubrication and stiffness reduction, thus making morning activities a little less creaky. Omega-3 supplements are available in various forms, such as capsules and liquids, so it’s quite easy to add them to your daily routine.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin are naturally occurring substances in the body whose primary role is to maintain the health of joint cartilage. Some studies have shown that supplements of these substances may help reduce pain and improve function in people with osteoarthritis. They come in both pill form and topical creams.
Boosting Cognitive Health with Herbal Allies
Forgetfulness, trouble focusing, and slower processing times may be worrisome, but they aren’t unavoidable. Mental exercise, a balanced diet, and physical activity can boost brain health. Some supplements and herbs are recognized for their particular contributions to mental clarity and cognition.
For centuries, ginkgo biloba has been a staple of traditional medicine, and today one can find it in popular forms. memory and cognitive speed enhancement. It’s believed that the herb does this by improving blood flow, thereby supplying the brain with more oxygen and nutrients. Ginkgo supplements are widely available and could be a great option for anyone wanting to support mental agility.
Bacopa Monnieri, a herb frequently used in Ayurvedic medicine, has shown potential to enhance memory and cognitive function in older individuals. Its believed mechanism involves enhancing communication between brain cells by supporting protein synthesis in such cells. You can find Bacopa supplements in health food stores and online.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom has been receiving quite a bit of attention for its possible neuroprotective effects. Research suggests it may support the growth of new nerves and enhance memory and focus. It is available as a dietary supplement but can also be added to dishes for those who prefer a more culinary approach.
Supporting Bone Health Naturally
One significant concern for older people is bone density, and with age, conditions such as osteoporosis—which comes from a loss of calcium and other minerals in the bones, making them brittle—become common. One way to help maintain bone health is to get enough of the important vitamins and minerals naturally.
For instance, calcium is essential to the maintenance of strong bones. Without sufficient Vitamin D, the body cannot properly absorb calcium. Although supplements are easily found, getting these nutrients from one’s diet—dairy products, leafy greens, fortified foods—and getting sunlight exposure for the natural synthesis of Vitamin D is another important aspect.
One of the roles of magnesium is to support the metabolism of Vitamin D. Good sources of magnesium are nuts, seeds, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables. When dietary magnesium is low, supplements can help.
Collagen, a major structural protein in the body, imparts strength and elasticity to the bones. With aging, there is a decline in collagen production; however, supplements may help preserve bone strength. Bone broth is a natural source of collagen, which is also available in powders and capsules.
Maintaining Heart Health with Diet and Supplements
Heart health problems could be more conspicuous as we age, so adopting heart-friendly habits and taking heart-friendly supplements would be good. In addition to regular exercise and a diet low in unhealthy fats and sodium, some natural approaches could help support cardiovascular health.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is essential for cellular energy production and has been linked with heart health benefits. It may help keep the heart muscles strong and promote healthy blood pressure levels. CoQ10 supplements are easy to find and might be especially helpful for individuals taking statin drugs since these medications could reduce the body’s natural levels of CoQ10.
Hawthorn berries, used traditionally for heart health, might help lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. The flavonoid content in the berries is believed to improve blood flow to the heart. Available as capsules, teas, and other preparations, it’s a natural choice for those wanting support for cardiovascular health.
Heart health can benefit from increased consumption of fiber-rich foods, such as oats, beans, and apples, which can help lower cholesterol and improve blood sugar levels. Taking supplements of fiber, such as psyllium husk, can be an easy way to ensure enough is consumed daily.
Boosting Immunity with Natural Supports
With age, the immune system is less vigorous than it once was, so older individuals are more prone to infections. Naturally supporting immunity may lessen this risk, helping people stay healthier and recover from illnesses more quickly.
One of the most recognized immune-boosting sources is elderberry, which contains a wealth of vitamins and antioxidants. This makes it a possible ally in reducing the severity and length of colds and flu. The availability of elderberry in syrups, gummies, and teas makes it easy for individuals to take it in their preferred form.
The immune system has a significant ally in the gut: probiotics—the beneficial bacteria that maintain a healthy balance of flora in the gut. Digestive health is promoted by the consumption of probiotic-rich foods, such as yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut. Meanwhile, dietary supplements offer a straightforward option for maintaining gut health.
Vitamin C protects against infection by bolstering barriers in the skin, while zinc is essential for the proper function of the immune cells. Sources of both compounds include citrus fruits and nuts, but they may also be taken in supplement form.
Encouraging Healthy Sleep Patterns
Quality sleep is vital at any age, but it is especially important for older adults. Studies show that sleep can affect various aspects of daily life, from mood to memory. Sleep issues tend to increase with age.
Melatonin is responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. Its production naturally declines with age, and supplementation can help restore a healthy rhythm. For those hesitant about taking supplements, melatonin-rich foods include cherries and walnuts.
Valerian root, popularly known as a natural sleeping pill, might encourage sleep by decreasing anxiety and increasing relaxation. To that end, it is frequently consumed in tea form or taken in capsules prior to going to bed.
Sleep quality might be enhanced by the calming aroma of lavender. Aromatherapy, teas, and essential oils—are just a few of the ways lavender can soothingly contribute to the quality of your sleep.