Supplements Helpful in Anti-Aging
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are particularly important in slowing down the aging
process. This is because they act as free radical scavengers,
counteracting the effects of oxidation.
The use of antioxidants is increasing becoming incorporated into
the typical dietary regimen. The integration of fruits and vegetables
(both high in antioxidants) is important in the daily nutritional
intake.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid is an extremely important water-soluble
antioxidant. It provides natural treatment of immune related conditions,
and acts as a preventative agent against aging and diseases. Vitamin
C is also considered vital in wound healing because it aids
in stabilizing collagen. When applied topically, vitamin C can
reduce fine lines and wrinkles and may lessen the severity of
sunburns. The water solubility of vitamin C also gives it the
unique ability to ‘scavenge’ aqueous peroxyl radicals
before they damage fats. It also substantiates the effect of vitamin
E, a fat-soluble antioxidant, and the enzyme glutathione peroxidase
to stop free radical chain reactions.
The beauty industry has started to incorporate the benefits of
vitamin C as a way of enhancing one's outer appearance. Addition
of vitamin C to lotions and facial serums is a testament of vitamin
C’s role in collagen production.
Vitamin E
The most biologically active form of this fat-soluble vitamin
in humans is Alpha-tocopherol (α-tocopherol). Vitamin
E is shown to have anti-inflammatory effects on the skin.
When applied topically, vitamin E improves moisture, softness
and smoothness and also provides modest photo protection. In addition,
the antioxidant properties of Vitamin E assist in the metabolic
processes, DNA repair, and immune function. Vitamin E has also
been shown to be helpful in reducing high blood pressure, and
protecting low-density lipid (LDL) oxidation.
Vitamin A/Beta-Carotene
Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin. Retinol, often called preformed
vitamin A, is its most bio-available form. Pre-vitamin A, or beta-carotene,
is found in large amounts in darkly pigmented fruits. It plays
an instrumental role in the fight against aging. Due to its involvement
with the immune system and role in cell division, vitamin A also
plays a role in many anti-aging therapies and cancer prevention
programs. It is equally essential for cell differentiation (repair
processes), bone growth, skin health, vision acuity, and immune
function. In addition to its superficial exfoliating property,
topical Vitamin A has been suggested to help build collagen fibers
within the skin. This is the basis for its use in minimizing the
appearance of fine wrinkle lines.
Green Tea
Green tea has been used in Asia as a healing agent for centuries.
Green
tea’s anti-inflammatory and anti-growth qualities are
found in many skin care products designed to reduce the appearance
of puffiness, wrinkles, fine lines and large pores.
Like other antioxidants, green tea also acts as a free radical
scavenger and prevents cellular damage. Research shows beneficial
effects in consuming green tea as a way of preventing and treating
cancer.
