Comparison is offered on a greater scale than ever before—courtesy of the internet. With broadened exposure, people feel inclined to slow the aging process. Graceful aging is a natural process that ought to be embraced. However, most do not want to age prematurely—the goal is to age gracefully.
Premature aging may afflict both men and women in the United States. Common causes of premature aging—smoking, sun exposure and lack of hydration—are broadly discussed. But we often omit a major proponent of premature aging: mineral deficiencies. Deficiencies in magnesium, calcium, zinc, iodine, selenium and vitamins A, C, D and E may foster premature aging.
Below we will discuss signs that may indicate premature aging, as well as vitamins and minerals that will support aging on your individual timeline.
Potential Signs of Premature Aging
Graceful aging is subjective—there is no blueprint offering points of comparison. Premature aging refers to both the evolution of our outward appearance and cognitive function. The following are potential signs of premature aging—functionally and aesthetically.
- Persistent Exhaustion
- Feeling Forgetful
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Abnormal Inflammatory Response
- Dry Skin
- Wrinkles
- Graying Hair
- Hair Loss
- Increased Hyperpigmentation
Though not exhaustive, the above are potential signs of premature aging. If you have concerns about your individual experience with aging, reach out to your healthcare provider!
Mineral Deficiency & Aging
Vitamin and mineral deficiency are widespread issues. Causes and frequency of deficiencies vary. Potential causes include limited access to nutrient dense foods, knowledge and desire for individual wellness.
One of the primary effects of vitamin and mineral deficiency—when discussing premature aging—is accelerated mitochondrial decay. Mitochondria exist to power our cells. Over time, our mitochondria decay and promote aging. Mineral deficiencies may speed up mitochondrial decay thus prematurely aging us. Sufficiency supports graceful aging by allowing mitochondrial decay to occur in its own time.
Deficiencies may be absolved via dietary changes or supplementation. If you are concerned about your individual mineral sufficiency, reach out to your healthcare provider to create a plan that works for YOU.
Vitamins & Minerals that Support Graceful Aging
The following vitamins and minerals may support graceful aging.
Zinc – May encourage normal inflammatory response
This mineral supports a normal inflammatory response. When you scrape your knee skateboarding, or nick your finger in the kitchen, zinc could be one of the first minerals on the scene. It plays a large role in supporting the formation of new cells and cell membranes in skin.
It also offers immune-supporting qualities. Altered inflammation patterns—chronic elevated inflammatory responses—may indicate premature aging in some individuals. Research shows that the immune-supporting qualities may help support a normal inflammatory response.
Vitamin E – Encourage soft skin
Vitamin E can protect cells from damage and may encourage a normal inflammatory response within the body. It also discourages moisture loss, softening skin. Vitamin E reaches the skin two ways: internally and externally. This is a common vitamin. You may already consume it! Vitamin E is found in green vegetables, fresh fruits and nuts. If you are not consuming it naturally, supplementation is a great way to get the vitamins your body needs. Oral and topical supplements exist. Find what works for you!
CoQ10 – Support cell heath and graceful aging
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) aids energy maintenance in the body, working as a cofactor in the electron transport chain. The coenzyme is energy-assisting. It supports cells by protecting them from free radicals. CoQ10 functions as an electron carrier through three complexes in the mitochondria. CoQ10 sufficiency supports mitochondrial health. As discussed, prior, mitochondrial health—avoiding premature mitochondrial delay—supports graceful aging. Bottom line…CoQ10 is essential in mitochondrial function thus supporting timely mitochondrial decay and smooth aging.
Silica – Support collagen production
Collagen production thrives on silica. Additive silica promotes optimal collagen levels. Collagen is the primary protein in our skin. Healthy collagen levels increase skin elasticity to encourage smooth skin. An explicit daily recommended value is not established. But it can be sourced and supplemented naturally. Silica is found in green beans, bananas, leafy greens and brown rice. If you struggle to consume silica in your diet, supplementation is a viable option! Supplementation may help skin health.
Key Ideas on Graceful Aging
While aging is a beautiful process—one to embrace—most do not want to age prematurely. Mineral sufficiency supports mitochondrial health. It allows mitochondrial decay and consequent aging to occur in its own time. Below are four minerals that may support graceful aging:
- Zinc: supports a normal inflammatory response and supports damaged skin
- Vitamin E: discourages moisture loss in the skin
- CoQ10: discourages premature mitochondrial decay
- Silica: encourages smooth skin by supporting collagen production
Graceful aging is subjective—there is no blueprint offering points of comparison.
You deserve to age on your own timeline.