Biological aging is not a linear and gradual process, but it rather appears to accelerate periodically, during sometime in mid-30s, 40s, 50s and 60s throughout later life. The aging is often associated with numerous age-related diseases that can severely impact quality of life and independence later in life. To maintain health and independence with age, many people start taking dietary supplements aiming for increasing healthspan or even lifespan. On the other hand, a variety of dietary supplements, such as vitamins and minerals, have been known for decades to have essential biological functions, such as involvement in metabolism and synthesis of carbohydrate, lipids, and amino acids, in energy generation, and in antioxidation. Additionally, interesting reports from a lot of preclinical studies using animals and cells have suggested the potentials of dietary supplements in prevention and treatments of age-related diseases. Although there are many nice claims about the dietary supplements, It is still not very clear which of those claims are really supported by clinical evidence.
This book highlights recent studies on the health benefits of vitamins, minerals, and other dietary supplements, which are essential for biological functions. It provides clinical evidence, supported by hundreds of references, explaining how and why these micronutrients have impacts on healthy living and fight against age-related diseases. The book starts with an introduction to the mechanisms of aging and several age-related diseases at the cellular level. It then guides readers through an evolving overview of individual dietary supplements and research, offering insight into how science continues to shape our understanding of their benefits. The book empowers readers to understand the potential role of dietary supplements in supporting healthy living. It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in personal health and the science behind dietary supplements.