6 Supplements that May Slow the Signs of Aging

Everywhere you look, there are advertisements promising miracle cures, claiming their supplements will reverse the physical effects of the passage of time. If it’s not ads for plastic surgeries to eliminate wrinkles or tighten skin, it’s companies claiming their creams or serums can work wonders without giving many details on how they work.

On the other hand, some supplements do show promise in slowing or even reversing some signs of aging—and there’s a science to back them up. These supplements aren’t just about the obvious physical signs on the skin but also about internal signs of aging like joint pain or slower healing.

Taking these natural supplements may positively impact your internal health, which can translate to your outward appearance.

1. CoQ10

Many of these supplements occur naturally in the body, but production tends to slow down with age. Coenzyme Q10 is a natural antioxidant, which helps protect the body from oxidative damage.

Some studies show that this enzyme, which is available in pill forms, can help prevent heart ailments in older people. It potentially has a major benefit for the body’s exterior—strengthening the skin against UV damage, which can prevent wrinkles and dark spots.

2. Curcumin Supplements

Some of these supplements occur in nature and can be found in food but are also available in concentrated form through supplements. Turmeric root is considered a healthy addition to the diet, one reason being the active component curcumin.

This chemical pulls double-duty as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory compound and has been shown to reduce inflammation in studies. Some doctors recommend it for those dealing with arthritis, and regularly taking it may reduce pain and increase mobility, making it easier to stay active.

3. Spirulina

This supplement comes from an unusual source—blue-green algae that are recommended due to their high protein and vitamin content. This makes spirulina a popular choice for those on a vegan or vegetarian diet, as it can replace some proteins found in animal products.

Spirulina’s biggest health benefit may be in weight loss, as it’s a nutrient-dense food, and those who take it report success at dropping pounds. While research is ongoing on how it affects human digestive health, a 2017 study on aging mice indicates that it may help lower blood sugar and preserve gut bacteria when paired with high-fiber foods.

4. EGCG

Green tea comes highly recommended as a healthy drink due to its high antioxidant content, including the presence of epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG.

All antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, but this naturally occurring polyphenol can aid in skin and hair health. Studies indicate it may keep your skin hydrated and help it retain moisture, which helps eliminate dry and cracked skin and reduce or prevent wrinkles. Green tea has many health benefits and can be found at most grocery stores, but this compound also comes in concentrated supplements.

5. Collagen

Collagen is another naturally occurring compound in the body, and it’s one of the body’s biggest secret weapons. This protein is everywhere—building our connective tissue and muscle structure while keeping your skin tight. But like most compounds in your body, it reduces production with age, which is why skin tends to get looser and more wrinkled.

Collagen is available in pure supplement form, but it’s best to combine this powder with a diet full of naturally collagen-rich foods. Bone broth is an excellent source of collagen, as are fish and egg whites. Other foods like garlic boost the body’s natural production of collagen. People who increase their collagen intake quickly report greater skin elasticity and moisture, resulting in a more youthful appearance.

6. Resveratrol

Red wine may be a guilty pleasure for some, but maybe it’s not as bad as it contains the potent antioxidant resveratrol. Testing indicates that resveratrol may help lower blood pressure and reduce levels of “bad” cholesterol, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease long term.

Like other antioxidants, resveratrol positively impacts the skin and may reduce damage from UV rays. It’s available in supplements but can also be found in certain nuts, grapes, berries, and even dark chocolate—good news for chocoholics everywhere.

Take Control of Aging Today

The signs of aging may be inevitable, but they aren’t completely uncontrollable. Simple changes in habits and nutrition can delay or even roll back internal and external signs of aging. They may not be miracle cures, but these supplements offer some long-term nutritional and health benefits.