HEALTH REPORT
Live Longer Be Happier
We cannot avoid getting old and nor should we wish to – it is a privilege. But we can certainly slow down the ageing process and maintain good health for as long as possible.
The increase in human life expectancy over the last century has been nothing short of miraculous. However, we need to acknowledge that there has also been a rise in chronic health conditions, ranging from heart disease and osteoarthritis to diabetes and mental health disorders, which has resulted in a significant decline in the number of years a person can expect to live in good health. The good news is, if we can better understand the factors driving these chronic health conditions, we may just be able to play a role in their prevention, ensuring that a long life is also a vibrant and
adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). We need NAD+ to make adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the principal energy molecule in the body and powers the body’s cellular processes. Research indicates that NAD+ levels in the body decline with age. Free radical damage, chronic inflammation, environmental toxins and excess consumption of calories also reduce NAD+ levels.
NR supplementation has been shown to boost blood levels of NAD+ and provide many benefits, including promoting cellular energy, enhancing mitochondrial function and supporting healthspan and longevity. • Berberine: This bioactive compound, derived from plants like goldenseal and barberry, is gaining attention for its potential impact on longevity and metabolic health. It enhances metabolic processes by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), an enzyme that regulates cellular energy balance, improves insulin sensitivity, regulates blood sugar and reduces cholesterol. These effects are particularly beneficial for metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular health. Berberine's influence on gut microbiota and its antioxidant properties further enhance its therapeutic effects. Berberine usually has poor bioavailability, due to low absorption, rapid metabolism and fast elimination from the body. However, new Berbevis®
Berberine, NAD, resveratrol,
healthy life. This concept of improving the number of years lived in optimal health and wellbeing is called ‘healthspan’. Your healthspan is influenced by factors like regular physical activity, a balanced and nutritious diet, stress management, getting adequate sleep, and avoiding harmful behaviours, such as smoking and excess alcohol consumption. New developments Recent research has identified several additional factors that play crucial and positive roles in promoting healthspan. These include the following: • Nicotinamide riboside (NR): This nutrient belongs to the vitamin B3 family and it directly promotes the production of the coenzyme nicotinamide
quercetin and vitamin C play significant roles in preventing disease and the effects of ageing.
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ISSUE 72 • 2024
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