The Role of Supplements in Filling Nutritional Gaps as We Age

Luis Vivas
2025-07-29T14:09:48-07:00

By William Clearfield, DO, F.A.A.M.A., D.A.B.M.A., F.A.A.R.F.M. Executive Director, American Osteopathic Society of Integrative Medicine

It is 2025. The information age is upon us. Never before cartier Replica uk in history has information been more abundant, precise, and ubiquitous. From our kitchen tables, we can research virtually any topic from multiple sources, putting the sum of human knowledge at our fingertips.

Yet, despite this unprecedented access to information, a troubling disconnect persists. A recent survey of 8,191 subjects revealed that three-quarters of respondents lacked adequate knowledge about one of life’s most essential activities: feeding themselves. Why, in a world of endless resources, do we struggle to understand the basics of nutrition? ⁽¹⁾

A balanced diet should, with an added emphasis cheap Replica Watches uk on should, provide us with all the nutrients necessary for a healthy, happy, well-lived life. ⁽²⁾

Why are we so nutritionally naive? Why don’t we know more? One would think that Big Food, the major rolex replica watches agricultural conglomerates, would provide the world with decent, nutritious, affordable food. We all would live longer and have more time to spend on buying their products.

One would think.

The answer, of course, is that it is much easier and more profitable to deplete soil quality and “salt” the earth with PFAS chemicals or glyphosate, keeping the population sick and dependent on the “big food and drug” conglomerates. Additionally, fast food outlets offer cheap, highly processed hamburgers with fried potatoes (and a toy), providing a convenient option for parents rather than preparing fresh, wholesome meals.

Can we reverse course? Yes, of course. If less than 80% of your meals are from farm-to-table regenerative farms or local organic markets, you must add high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade supplements to bridge this dietary divide.

Aging Creates Nutritional Gaps

As we age, once can develop nutritional deficiencies due to:

1. Reduced Gut Bacteria Diversity: The aging gut produces more pro-inflammatory than anti-inflammatory bacteria, contributing to chronic low-grade inflammation and gut dysbiosis. ⁽⁵⁾

2. Reduced Absorption: Gut dysbiosis leads to our bodies struggling to absorb nutrients, particularly Vitamin A, B-12, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc as efficiently as we once did. ⁽⁶⁻¹⁴⁾

3. Dietary Limitations: Many older adults eat less due to decreased appetite or nutritional restrictions, reducing nutrient intake. ⁽¹⁵⁾

4. Chronic Conditions: Metabolic dysfunction in the form of diabetes, dementia-like neurologic decline, infections, and cardiovascular disease all contribute to nutritional deficits. ⁽¹⁶⁾

5. Medications: ⁽¹⁷⁾

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Commonly prescribed for acid reflux and stomach ulcers, PPIs such as omeprazole and lansoprazole reduce the absorption of magnesium, calcium, and vitamin B12.

Antibiotics: Long-term use of antibiotics disrupts gut flora, leading to vitamin deficiencies such as vitamin K and vitamins B1, B6, B12, and folic acid.

Benzodiazepines: Medications such as diazepam and lorazepam Interfere with metabolic functions, leading to vitamin B6 and folate deficiencies.

Statins: Cholesterol-lowering medication deplete the body of Coenzyme Q 10, resulting in muscle pain and cramps.

6. Declining Digestive Function: Our bodies produce fewer digestive enzymes and less bile, making nutrient breakdown and absorption more challenging.

The Importance of Supplements for Healthy Aging

As we age, our bodies naturally face challenges in maintaining optimal health. Supplements designed for healthy aging play a critical role in filling the nutritional gaps caused by these changes, offering targeted support for vitality and overall quality of life. Among these, Longevinex®, Garlinex®, and Garligest® stand out for their scientifically proven benefits.

Let me explain.

#1 Trans-Resveratrol: A Foundation for Longevity

Trans-resveratrol, the key ingredient in Longevinex®, is a powerful compound known for its ability to support healthy aging. Trans-Resveratrol helps protect cells from oxidative stress, a major contributor to aging and the development of chronic conditions. It also supports cardiovascular health, regulates metabolic function, and reduces the risk of diseases affecting the respiratory and reproductive systems.

#2 The Multifaceted Benefits of Garlic

Allicin, the active compound in garlic, provides potent antimicrobial properties, effectively targeting antibiotic-resistant bacteria like MRSA and Helicobacter pylori (linked to stomach ulcers and gastric cancer), as well as yeast infections caused by Candida albicans. These antimicrobial properties often outperform many pharmaceuticals. (21-23)

Additional Health Benefits of Garlic:

Garlic helps lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and prevent blood clots, enhancing overall heart health. ⁽²⁴⁻²⁷⁾

It strengthens the immune system to better fight infections and illnesses.

Garlic supports healthy digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar levels.⁽²⁸⁾

One of our go-to garlic supplements, Garlinex®, focuses on garlic’s active compounds, enhancing allicin’s benefits for cardiovascular health, immune support, and overall well-being.

Garligest® on the other hand, is formulated to improve digestion, enhance bile flow, promote better nutrient absorption, and support gut health. It also helps alleviate common digestive issues such as bloating, indigestion, and gas, making it an essential part of a comprehensive wellness routine.²⁹⁾

Additional Essential Supplements for Aging Adults

#3 Calcium

Calcium works with vitamin D to maintain strong bones, reducing the risk of fractures. While found in milk products, canned fish, and dark leafy greens, many older adults may need a supplement to meet the recommended daily intake:

Women over 50: 1,200 mg per day

Men 51-70: 1,000 mg per day; 1,200 mg after 70

#4 Vitamin D

Vitamin D aids calcium absorption and supports bone health. Sources include fortified foods and fatty fish, but supplementation may be necessary:

Ages 51-70: 600 IU per day

Over 70: 800 IU per day

#5 Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is essential for red blood cell formation and overall vitality. It can be found in potatoes, bananas, and fortified cereals. Recommended intake:

Men: 1.7 mg per day

Women: 1.5 mg per day

#6 Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 supports red blood cells and nerve health. As absorption decreases with age, fortified cereals or supplements may be required, especially for vegetarians or those on acid reflux medications. The daily recommendation is 2.4 mcg.

Before starting any new supplement, consult with your doctor to determine which options best suit your individual health needs.By integrating a combination of targeted supplements like Longevinex®, Garlinex®, Garligest®, and essential vitamins and minerals, you can take proactive steps to support healthy aging, optimize your well-being, and enhance your quality of life.

Supplements Matter for All Age Groups ⁽³⁰⁻³¹⁾

While Longevinex®, Garlinex®, and Garligest ® primarily support “older” adults, younger adults also reap benefits from supplementation. (Sidebar: When asked, ‘How old is old?’ my three-year-old granddaughter replied without hesitation, “Twenty.”) Whether aged 30 or 60, Longevinex supplements provide targeted support for optimal health. Starting a supplement regimen early in life has proven advantageous for one’s quality of life.

For Athletes, Resveratrol boosts endurance, enhances mitochondrial function, and reduces inflammation, making it ideal for optimal performance and quick post-workout recovery.

For Busy Professionals: Garlic-based supplements promote healthy digestion, increase energy, and strengthen the immune system, perfect for managing a busy lifestyle.

For Long-Term Health: Introducing supplements early in life slows cellular senescence and protects against oxidative stress and inflammation, laying the groundwork for healthy aging.

In the Game of Life, Victory Goes to the Tortoise, Not the Hare: A Holistic Approach to Longevity.

Supplements play an essential role in developing a balanced wellness strategy. But be forewarned: Supplementation is for the long haul. We do not view their addition to a wellness regimen as a quick fix. Do not expect to be able to speak Portuguese, assuming you know Portuguese, in two weeks after taking a memory or cognition-enhancing supplement.

For maximum benefits from supplements: ⁽³²⁾

Stay Physically Active-Exercise strengthens the heart, muscles, and bones while enhancing mental acuity and mood.

Eat a Nutrient-rich Mediterranean-style Diet high in leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.

Prioritize Sleep-Quality sleep is a foundational pillar of health and crucial in maintaining overall well-being.

Manage Stress-Chronic stress significantly elevates the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and mental health disorders.

Foster Social Connections—Developing and maintaining a supportive network of family and friends directly enhances emotional well-being by providing a sense of belonging, security, and unconditional support.

Keep Your Mind Active- Consistently challenging your mind with stimulating activities is vital for preserving and enhancing cognitive function.

Avoid Harmful Habits- Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and substance abuse directly contributes to a longer, healthier life..

Conclusion

Current research highlights the roles of oxidative stress, inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies in the development of chronic disease development and aging. Those findings demonstrate the importance of a proactive, preventative self-care program in developing life-long habits crucial for determining one’s quality and quantity of life. Antioxidant-rich supplements, particularly resveratrol and garlic, effectively delay aging while mitigating its many implications. Addressing these “nutritional gaps” head-on yields tremendous health, energy, and vitality benefits.

Aging well is not about turning back the clock-it is about managing the time we have on this side of the Earth judiciously. With a focus on key systems such as heart health, vision, digestion, and cellular function, supplements like Longevinex®, Garlinex®, and Garligest® become invaluable allies in anyone’s wellness journey.

The bottom line? To stay vibrant and active at every age!

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