12 Causes of Ageing: How to Combat it with Anti-Ageing Supplements

Ageing occurs due to a combination of biological processes and environmental influences.

Over time, cellular mechanisms slow down, DNA accumulates damage, and the body becomes less efficient at repairing itself.

Common elements of the natural ageing process include:

• Loss of collagen and elastin: These proteins maintain skin health, elasticity and firmness but naturally decline with age.
• Mitochondrial dysfunction: The cellular powerhouses that generate energy lose efficiency, leading to reduced vitality.
• DNA damage: Exposure to toxins, UV light, and oxidative stress accelerates damage to the body’s genetic material.

This gradual decline affects not only appearance but also energy levels, joint health, and cognitive function. However, certain lifestyle changes and targeted supplements may slow or counteract these effects.

1. Oxidative Stress

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals—unstable molecules that damage cells—and antioxidants, which neutralize them, leading to age-related diseases. This imbalance accelerates the ageing process by breaking down collagen, damaging DNA, and impairing cellular repair.

How it affects ageing:

• Skin damage: Leads to fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven pigmentation.
• Cellular dysfunction: Damaged cells have reduced capacity for energy production and repair.

How to combat it naturally:

Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods like blueberries, spinach, and dark chocolate into your diet.

Suggested Supplement: Vitamin C

• Protects skin health from damage: Vitamin C neutralizes free radicals, preventing oxidative damage to collagen and other skin structures.
• Boosts collagen synthesis: This essential nutrient helps rebuild skin’s elasticity, reducing wrinkles over time.
• Supports overall resilience: Its antioxidant properties enhance cellular repair, supporting long-term vitality.

3. Loss of Collagen and Elastin

Collagen and elastin provide the structural framework for firm, youthful skin. As their production decreases with age, the skin becomes thinner, drier, and more prone to sagging and wrinkles.

How it affects ageing:

• Wrinkles and fine lines: Reduced collagen and elastin leave skin unable to retain its shape.
• Dryness and dullness: Loss of these proteins impacts hydration and radiance.

How to combat it naturally:

Eat protein-rich foods like chicken, fish, and eggs, along with vitamin C-rich produce such as citrus fruits and bell peppers.

Suggested Supplement: Collagen Peptides

• Restores elasticity: Collagen peptide supplementation replenishes the body’s natural stores, improving skin texture and reducing wrinkles.
• Boosts hydration: Collagen helps retain moisture, leading to smoother, plumper skin.
• Promotes joint health: It supports cartilage, reducing stiffness and enhancing mobility.

Suggested Supplement: NMN (Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

• Increases cellular energy: NMN supplements boost levels of NAD+, a molecule critical for mitochondrial function, improving energy and endurance.
• Supports longevity: By enhancing mitochondrial health, NMN may slow cellular ageing and promote longevity.
• Improves cognitive function: Increased energy supports brain health, reducing mental fatigue.

5. Hormonal Changes

Hormonal shifts, such as those during menopause or andropause, significantly impact ageing. These changes affect skin elasticity, bone density, and mood regulation.

How it affects ageing:

• Skin dryness: Reduced estrogen leads to less hydrated, more fragile skin.
• Mood and energy: Hormonal imbalances can cause fatigue, irritability, and depression.

How to combat it naturally:

Practice stress management techniques like yoga or mindfulness to balance cortisol levels.

Suggested Supplement: Ashwagandha

• Regulates stress hormones: Ashwagandha helps lower cortisol levels, potentially reducing stress-related ageing.
• Supports hormonal balance: It may alleviate symptoms of menopause and enhance mood.
• Boosts energy and resilience: This adaptogen promotes overall vitality, helping the body cope with stressors.

Suggested Supplement: Resveratrol

• Protects DNA: Resveratrol promotes DNA repair and reduces the accumulation of mutations.
• Activates longevity pathways: It stimulates sirtuins, proteins that regulate cellular ageing.
• Combats oxidative stress: Its antioxidant properties support overall cellular health.

Suggested Supplement: Curcumin

• Supports healthy gene expression: Curcumin helps regulate epigenetic changes, promoting optimal cellular function.
• Reduces inflammation: Its potential anti-inflammatory effects protect against skin ageing and cellular damage.
• Boosts brain health: Curcumin enhances cognitive resilience, reducing age-related mental decline.

Suggested Supplement: Astragalus

• Preserves telomere length: Astragalus contains compounds that may protect and extend telomeres.
• Enhances immune health: It boosts the body’s ability to fight infections and stress.

Suggested Supplement: Quercetin

• Eliminates senescent cells: Quercetin acts as a senolytic, helping clear these harmful cells from the body.
• Improves skin quality: It supports healthy skin by possibly reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Suggested Supplement: BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids)

• Supports muscle repair: BCAAs aid protein synthesis, maintaining muscle health and reducing sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss).
• Improves cellular stability: They help ensure proper protein folding, reducing cellular stress.

11. Gut Microbiome Imbalance

A disrupted gut microbiome impacts digestion, immunity, and systemic inflammation, accelerating ageing.

Suggested Supplement: Digest Capsules

• Restores gut health: Digest capsules replenish beneficial bacteria, improving nutrient absorption.
• Boosts immunity: A balanced microbiome strengthens overall health and resilience.

Suggested Supplement: Alpha-Lipoic Acid

• Reduces glycation effects: Alpha-lipoic acid combats protein cross-linking, improving skin elasticity.
• Supports antioxidant defenses: It neutralizes free radicals, protecting tissues from damage.

How to Choose the Best Anti-Ageing Supplements

When selecting anti-ageing supplements, consider these factors:

• Ingredient quality: Look for clinically tested, high-purity ingredients.
• Third-party testing: Ensure the product is verified for safety and efficacy.
• Specific goals: Choose supplements tailored to your needs, such as collagen for skin health or NMN for energy.

Conclusion

Ageing is a complex process, but understanding its causes allows for targeted interventions.

By integrating anti-ageing supplements with healthy lifestyle practices, it is possible to maintain vitality, support longevity, and age gracefully.Always consult a healthcare professional to tailor your supplement routine to your specific needs.