Supplements
for graceful aging
The process of aging much like change
in the natural world is subtle but relentless, seasons and times giving way
gently one to another. Summer gives way to autumn, youth gives way to the
middle years and mysterious as it may seem suddenly we find ourselves asking
whereÕs the kid? WasnÕt I just 14?
Each age requires a different approach
to maintain optimal health. In our
younger years a strong reserve may be all that was needed to heal. In later
years hopefully common sense plus the pain of trial and error has taught us not
to take chances with our health.
The price of the maintenance agreement
has gone up I will jokingly, but only half jokingly tell my clients that
complain about the process of aging. The good news, we live in a country where
good food, clean air and dietary supplementation is readily available. As
individuals we can maximize the quality of our later years with supplements.
Here are four key supplements for healthy aging—
Digestive enzymes— the body at
any age has difficulty digesting large amounts of cooked and processed foods
that are devoid of enzymes. Over time (especially after the age of 40) these
foods tax the delicate enzyme production of the pancreas. Poorly digested foods
delivered into the small and large intestines can cause a myriad of digestive
problems from gastric ulcers, GERD, irritable bowel, diverticuli and colitis.
Digestive enzymes coupled with hydrochloric acid to reduce and digest proteins
protect the delicate membranes of the stomach and stoke the digestive fires allowing
the body to burn and assimilate foods properly. Weak digestion will over time
weaken the entire system leading to diseases and medication use.
Glucosamine sulfate— this key
supplement has become the darling of the arthritis world. Sometimes coupled with
chondrotin or MSM it has the ability to reduce joint destruction and pain with
regular use. Large studies have shown that it can actually help repair minor
joint damage, strengthen and prevent injury. Sturdy, strong pain free joints
keep us active in turn reducing difficulties with overweight that lead to
coronary artery disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and strokes.
Mineral supplementation— much is written about
vitamins, very little about minerals. The body will go for days, sometimes
weeks short of vitamins where a mineral deficiency can in some cases lead to
heart problems and death if not immediately corrected. A high quality balanced
calcium magnesium supplement will help prevent bone loss important to healthy
aging, produce more natural restful sleep and increase energy levels. Other
minerals can be obtained from a good quality multivitamin.
Multivitamins are necessary for
everyone at every age given the diet we eat and should not be overlooked as key
in good healthy aging. The family of B vitamins helps bolster energy levels and
is necessary for healthy brain function and nerve impulse.
There are many other herbs, supplements
and vitamins that can add quality to your years. With the help of a trained
professional individual supplementation can be added to optimize your program
of good health and graceful aging.
Till next time, Rebecca