Understanding aging and strategies for prolonging life to 120 years
Aging, a complex phenomenon marked by the decline in organismal function during adulthood, has been a subject of extensive research since the publication of the hallmarks of aging in 2013 [1]. Nearly 300,000 articles have been published on this topic since then, reflecting the growing interest and importance of understanding aging processes.
Definition of Aging
Aging is a complex process influenced by a myriad of factors, including genetic predisposition, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and metabolic processes. At its core, aging involves a gradual decline in cellular function and tissue integrity, leading to an increased susceptibility to age-related diseases and a decline in overall health. Recent research has shed light on various mechanisms that contribute to aging, including oxidative stress, inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and cellular senescence [2]. By understanding these underlying mechanisms, scientists have identified potential targets for interventions aimed at slowing down the aging process and extending healthspan—the period of life spent in good health.
Strategies for Prolonging Human Life: Nutraceuticals as Key Players
One promising approach to promoting longevity involves the use of nutraceuticals— bioactive compounds derived from natural sources that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Here are some nutraceuticals that have shown promise in promoting healthy aging and extending lifespan.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is a type of medicinal mushroom with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that cordyceps supplementation may help reduce oxidative stress, support immune function, and improve exercise performance, all of which contribute to healthy aging [3].
Lion's Mane
Lion's mane mushroom contains compounds called hericenones and erinacines, which have been studied for their neuroprotective and cognitive-enhancing effects. By supporting brain health and function, lion's mane may help maintain cognitive function and quality of life as we age [4].
Chaga and Reishi
Chaga and reishi mushrooms have been revered for centuries in traditional medicine for their immune-modulating and anti-aging properties. Both mushrooms contain bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides and triterpenoids, which may support immune function, reduce inflammation, and promote longevity [5], [6].
NR (Nicotinamide Riboside)
Similar to NMN, NR is another precursor to NAD+ that has gained attention for its potential anti-aging effects. NR supplementation has been shown to increase NAD+ levels, improve mitochondrial function, and enhance cellular repair mechanisms, thereby promoting healthy aging [7].
Trans-Resveratrol
Found in grapes, berries, and red wine, trans-resveratrol is a polyphenol known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research indicates that trans-resveratrol may activate longevity pathways, such as sirtuins, and promote cellular health and longevity [8].
Embracing the Journey to 120 Years
As our understanding of aging continues to evolve, so too do the strategies for promoting longevity and extending healthspan. Exciting breakthroughs are emerging, offering hope for extending our lifespan well beyond what was once thought possible.While achieving the ambitious goal of living to 120 years may require a multifaceted approach that encompasses lifestyle modifications, dietary interventions, and advances in medical technology, nutraceuticals offer promising avenues for exploration.
By incorporating these nutraceuticals into a comprehensive approach to healthy aging, individuals may optimize their chances of reaching and enjoying a longer, healthier life.
As we embark on this journey towards unlocking the secrets of longevity, let us embrace the possibilities and strive to make every moment count on the path to 120 years of vibrant living.
[1] López-Otín, C., & Kroemer, G. (2021). Hallmarks of Health. Cell, 184(1), 33–63. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2020.11.034
[2] López-Otín, C., Blasco, M. A., Partridge, L., Serrano, M., & Kroemer, G. (2023). Hallmarks of aging: An expanding universe. Cell, 186(2), 243–278. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2022.11.001
[3] Ashraf, S. A., Elkhalifa, A. E. O., Siddiqui, A. J., Patel, M., Awadelkareem, A. M., Snoussi, M., Ashraf, M. S., Adnan, M., & Hadi, S. (2020). Cordycepin for Health and Wellbeing: A Potent Bioactive Metabolite of an Entomopathogenic Medicinal Fungus Cordyceps with Its Nutraceutical and Therapeutic Potential. Molecules, 25(12), 2735. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25122735
[4] Tripodi, F., Falletta, E., Leri, M., Angeloni, C., Beghelli, D., Giusti, L., Milanesi, R., Sampaio-Marques, B., Ludovico, P., Goppa, L., Rossi, P., Savino, E., Bucciantini, M., & Coccetti, P. (2022). Anti-Aging and Neuroprotective Properties of Grifola frondosa and Hericium erinaceus Extracts. Nutrients, 14(20), 4368. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14204368
[5] Park, J., Nguyen, T. M. N., Park, H., Nguyen, M. T. T., Lee, N., Ban, S., Park, K., Lee, C., Kim, J., & Park, J.-T. (2023). Protective Effects of Lanostane Triterpenoids from Chaga Mushroom in Human Keratinocytes, HaCaT Cells, against Inflammatory and Oxidative Stresses. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24(16), 12803. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms241612803
[6] Wang, J., Cao, B., Zhao, H., & Feng, J. (2017). Emerging Roles of Ganoderma Lucidum in Anti-Aging. Aging and Disease, 8(6), 691. https://doi.org/10.14336/AD.2017.0410
[7] Lautrup, S., Sinclair, D. A., Mattson, M. P., & Fang, E. F. (2019). NAD+ in Brain Aging and Neurodegenerative Disorders. Cell Metabolism, 30(4), 630–655. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cmet.2019.09.001
[8] Diaz, M., Degens, H., Vanhees, L., Austin, C., & Azzawi, M. (2016). The effects of resveratrol on aging vessels. Experimental Gerontology, 85, 41–47. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.exger.2016.09.016
