Staying healthy as we age is a goal shared by almost everybody. Proper diet and regular exercise are essential. Avoiding drugs and alcohol is equally crucial. Limiting sun exposure, getting plenty of sleep, and keeping our minds sharp with hobbies and interests are also important. What else can be done?

While there’s no magic potion for staying healthy forever, several supplements have been shown to boost health and promote healthy aging. The following are seven to consider incorporating into your daily self-care regimen:

Collagen

The natural production of the protein responsible for keeping skin smooth and taut - known as collagen - slows as we age. The result is reduced skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles. Incorporating a collagen supplement into your daily regimen may help slow down the physical signs of aging. Collagen can be found naturally in foods, but many people turn to skin creams and capsules containing collagen as a way to keep their skin looking youthful for as long as possible.

Fish Oil

Fish oil is one of the most widely consumed health supplements available. It’s no surprise, given its long list of supposed benefits. Studies suggest fish oil helps promote heart health, improve memory, and even help us protect our eyesight as we age. The anti-inflammatory properties of fish oil have also been documented, as well as evidence suggesting the supplement helps improve bone health. It all adds up to fish oil being a useful supplement for those concerned about staying healthy as they get older.

Crocin

The spice known as saffron is one of the most valuable substances on earth. The primary reason for its high demand is its use in culinary circles, especially in India and Spain. However, saffron also contains the carotenoid known as crocin. Used as a supplement, crocin has been shown to reduce inflammation and provide protection against UV light. Other studies suggest crocin can even help prevent age-related cognitive decline, making it a useful anti-aging supplement.

Coenzyme Q10

Like collagen, your body produces its own coenzyme Q10, commonly referred to as CoQ10. It’s an antioxidant used by the body to safeguard against cellular damage. CoQ10 may also play a role in maintaining low cholesterol and healthy blood sugar levels. But as we age, natural CoQ10 production slows. Fortunately, red yeast rice with CoQ10 and similar products provides the body with a sufficient replacement. Simply mix a packet into your favorite beverage once a day to start getting the health benefits of coenzyme Q10!

Vitamin C

Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is one of the most widely consumed supplements on the planet. That’s because the human body doesn’t create its own supply, requiring individuals to get vitamin C through various foods and drinks. Low levels of vitamin C can lead to scurvy in extreme cases, but the most common health risks associated with insufficient levels of vitamin C include arthritis, heart disease, and even cancer. With this in mind, it’s essential for older folks to make sure they’re getting plenty of vitamin C in their diet, either through foods like citrus fruit or daily supplements.

Resveratrol

Another antioxidant found in various berries as well as red wine, resveratrol has been shown to promote longevity by triggering the production of an enzyme known as sirtuin. While further studies are required to bolster the correlation between resveratrol and living longer, existing evidence is promising.

Magnesium

The list of health and wellness benefits of magnesium is seemingly endless. It’s been linked to reduced risk of diabetes, stronger bones, better cardiovascular health, migraine mitigation, and managing the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, commonly referred to as PMS. While PMS management becomes less of a concern as we get older, the other health benefits of magnesium seem like a perfect fit for those looking to protect health and wellness as they age.

Who doesn’t want to stay as healthy as possible as they age? Doing so is easier said than done but not impossible. While diet, exercise, sleep, and overall clean living are key to making it happen, the secret ingredient may turn out to be one or more of these supplements.

Julie Steinbeck is a freelance writer from Florida. She enjoys covering topics related to business, finance, and travel.