The process of ageing begins from birth. From the minute we’re born, our cells divide, multiply, and replenish with new cells to ensure we continue growing and developing. This process continues throughout our lives but, like most things, slows as we get older.
The ageing process is 100% natural and not something we need to shy away from. However, in recent years the health and wellness sector has become increasingly invested in achieving longevity, with advancements in science and technology reflecting the traction this concept has gained.
But what is longevity all about?
Well, ultimately, longevity is about living longer! It inspires us to shift our thinking from reactive to preventative healthcare, and to focus on risk mitigation, innovative therapies, and considerations of how we can all become more empowered to take proactive steps towards living longer.
Living longer, however, is only half of the picture. We want to increase lifespan as well as life quality!
There are a few lifestyle habits we can adopt to live better for longer, including:
- Keeping active with regular exercise
- Maintaining healthy diets and drinking plenty of water
- Avoiding smoking or consumption of too much alcohol
- Reducing stress and practicing self-care
- Reducing sun exposure and damage
In addition, there are plenty of products on the market lauded for their capacity to improve lifespan and quality. Here are some of our favourites!
Melrose Liposomal Nicotinamide Riboside Oral Liquid 50 ml
Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) is part of the Vitamin B3 family, and is prescursor of NAD+, a critical cofactor for cellular health, energy and production. Research suggests that maintaining NAD+ levels is a fundamental feature of longevity.
Herbs Of Gold Resveratrol AdvantAGE 60VC
Resveratrol is a powerful antioxidant which reduces free radicals formed in the body to support cardiovascular system health and help maintain blood vessel health. Combining high-strength resveratrol with vitamin C and zinc may provide additional support for skin health and assist in collagen and connective tissue production—all important aspects of living better and longer!
Herbs of Gold Pain Relief PEA 60VC
Osteoarthritis, a common age-related condition affects nearly 1 in 10 Australians and contributes to increased disease burden and reduced quality of life amongst the older population. PEA (short for palmitoylethanolamide) has been well-researched for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, which may assist in reducing symptoms of mild joint pain, mild nerve pain and symptoms of mild osteoarthritis.
Vital Astaxanthin 6mg 30 Vegecaps
Astaxanthin is naturally found in bacteria, microalgae and yeasts, and is carotenoid pigment that gives fish (salmon and trout), shrimp and other sea creatures their pinkish colour. Through its antioxidant properties, it is suggested that astaxanthin may help slow down the ageing process by reducing oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, supporting cardiovascular and cognitive function and supporting skin health.
Gaiam Yoga Mats
The effects of regular exercise on longevity are endless (pun intended), with benefits for cardiopulmonary, cognitive, musculoskeletal and metabolic function, while also reducing inflammation and oxidative stress—all important factors for expanding lifespan and healthspan. The practices of yoga and meditation can reduce both physical and mental stress, contributing to well-being and longevity.
Nutra Organics Collagen Beauty
Collagen is an incredibly important protein that holds your tissues and bones together. Collagen also helps to give your skin structure and elasticity. So, in theory, boosting your skin’s collagen levels—or preventing its loss—can help you look, and feel, younger.
There is no blanket approach to increasing lifespan and life quality. However, we can all incorporate practices and products into our lifestyles with significant benefits for our longevity.
Product availability may vary from store to store. Visit your local WholeLife Pharmacy and Healthfoods and speak with our pharmacists, nutritionists and naturopaths to discuss the right option for you. Always read the label and follow directions for use.
References
Australian Bureau of Statistics (2022), ‘Arthritis’, Australian Bureau of Statistics. <https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/arthritis/latest-release>.
Clayton P et al. (2021), ‘Palmitoylethanolamide: A Natural Compound for Health Management’, International Journal of Molecular Sciences. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34069940/>.
Davinelli S, Nielsen M & Scapagnini G (2018), ‘Astaxanthin in Skin Health, Repair, and Disease: A Comprehensive Review’, Nutrients. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5946307/>.
DiLoreto R, Murphy CT (2015), ‘The cell biology of aging’, Mol Biol Cell. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4678010/>.
Harvard School of Public Health (2021), ‘Healthy Longevity’, The Nutrition Source. <https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-longevity/>.
Sharma C, Donu D, Cen Y (2020) ‘Emerging Role of Nicotinamide Riboside in Health and Diseases’, Nutrients. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36235542/>.
Tolahunase, M, Sagar R & Dada R (2017). ‘Impact of Yoga and Meditation on Cellular Aging in Apparently Healthy Individuals: A Prospective, Open-Label Single-Arm Exploratory Study’, Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. <https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28191278/>.
Zhou DD, Luo M, Huang SY, et al. (2021), ‘Effects and Mechanisms of Resveratrol on Aging and Age-Related Diseases’, Oxid Med Cell Longev. <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8289612/>.
