Aging is the one condition that all living things have in common which can make the body more vulnerable to disease. Each person’ s lifestyle choices and stresses vary, and they all influence the aging process.

Do not assume that all illness and pain are certain to happen as you age. You can feel better at sixty than you did at thirty by making changes in your lifestyle and in your diet.

The overall health and condition of your immune system is vital to longevity. Without the ability to ward off the simplest of diseases, the body degenerates. Adding the right supplements should give you the added power needed to boost immunity and prevent or cure most disorders.

As the body ages, its systems slow down and become less efficient. So the correct nutrients are more important than ever for the support, repair and regeneration of the cells. There are no supernatural potions, only the simple fact that if you give your body the correct fuel, it will perform for you.

Natural Life Extenders

1. Exercise One aspect of daily living that science has found to lengthen and protect against aging is exercise. Exercise contributes to the wellness of the emotional condition by lessening anxiety, depression, tension and the general effects of many kinds of stress in life. Additional health benefits include preventing joint stiffness, gives you more energy, makes bones and muscles stronger and protects you from heart disease.

2. Eat Flavonoid Rich Foods Flavonoids are plant chemicals that inhibit the effects of free radicals, the molecules in the body that damage cells in the arteries, brain and immune system. The best food sources are: broccoli (4.2 milligrams per cup), green tea (8 milligrams per cup) and strawberries (4.2 milligrams per cup). Getting 31 milligrams of flavonoids daily is recommended.

3. Combine Vitamins C and E Both are antioxidants that prevent cell damage from free radicals. Both reduce cancer risk and maintain the elasticity of arteries. However, taken alone; each has very limited benefits in prolonging life. They are much more powerful combined because each vitamin protects different parts of cells. Vitamin C protects the watery parts of the cells and vitamin E protects the fatty parts of the cells. Take 400 milligrams of vitamin C three times daily and 400 IU of vitamin E daily.

4. Eat Fiber Early In The Day Eat fiber at breakfast to slow the rate at which the stomach empties. This is particularly helpful because it prevents spikes in blood sugar that can damage arteries and increase the risk for heart disease and fatty buildup. You will also less likely snack and get excessive calories later in the day.

Supplements For Aging

Glutathione A potent free radical scavenger and mental booster that acts as a mood elevator. In addition, it destroys ammonia, which interferes with brain function. 500 milligrams daily, on an empty stomach.

Coenzyme Q10 Aids circulation, increases tissue oxygenation, protects the heart and is vital for many bodily functions. 100 milligrams daily.

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is an adrenal hormone that enhances immune function. It has been found to help prevent and treat many of the disorders associated with aging. Take as directed on label.

DMG (Dimethylglycine) is a derivative of the amino acid glycine. It improves tissue oxygenation and boosts immune function. Take as directed on label.

Melatonin is a natural hormone that acts as an antioxidant. The body produces an abundant supply early in life, but as we age, production steadily declines. It may also help counteract insomnia, boost immunity and prevent cancer. 1.5 - 5 milligrams daily, taken 2 hours or less before bedtime.

Mushrooms Maitake, morel, reishi and shitake are mushrooms that the ancient Chinese praised as superior medicine that give eternal youth and longevity. They are found fresh as well as in supplement form.

PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid) is one of the B vitamins. It keeps skin healthy and delays wrinkles. Take as directed on label.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid) keeps hair healthy with little graying and prevents premature hair loss. It is also important for normal adrenal and immune function. As prescribed by physician.

Helpful Herbs For Old Age

Burdock root and red clover cleanse the bloodstream. They can be used separately or in combination.

Chaparral has antioxidant characteristics.

Echinacea helps to boost the immune system.

Garlic helps immune function and protects the heart.

Ginseng and ginkgo biloba extract are good for giving extra energy, increasing circulation and improving brain function. (Do not use ginseng if you have high blood pressure.)

Gotu Kola is called the "fountain of youth" herb in China and is thought to work with the immune system.

Horsetail, taken in form of tea or extract, is an excellent source of silicon, which is important for maintaining the strength of bones and connective tissue, and possibly the walls of blood vessels.

Ligustrum has immune fighting properties and is used to reverse prematurely graying hair and to retard aging.

Milk thistle promotes good liver function.

Stinging nettle is full of vital minerals, good for prostate, hypoglycemia, allergies, depression and urinary tract disorders, and a host of other problems.

Valerian root is valuable as a sleep aid and tranquilizer.

Wild yam contains natural steroids that have a rejuvenating effect. Steroids are what help exercise to melt off more weight and build muscle.

As with all supplements, herbal supplements should only be used in amounts typically recommended for medicinal purposes and you should always consult with a health professional first, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking prescription medications.