3 Foundational Pillars of Aging

Initially, I thought about titling this piece “Aging Gracefully.” But that would be a fat, bold-faced lie. Aging is a relentless negotiation with your own body. It’s startling and bizarre. We are not talking about a smooth, serene glide through our wisened years, but a gritty, messy, expensive battle with no winners. One day you’re effortlessly springing out of bed; the next, most mornings involve hostage negotiations with tight backs, weird hairs, and creaky joints.

Your Aging Body is the Foundation of Everything You Do

John, the founder of Optimum Health, agrees with me: aging is not for the faint of heart. But we’re lucky to have the opportunity to confront it with control points. It’s better than the alternative: dysfunction.

Rather than surrendering to discomfort, take a strategic approach. Manage the process, don’t fuss with fads, stay ahead of pain, and confront "getting old” head-on with practical, evidence-backed tactics. 

John’s Keys: “Preventing physical aging boils down to supporting your mitochondria/energy production and reducing inflammation…but there's obviously a lot more to the full picture”

The Three Foundational Pillars of Aging

Longevity isn’t about adding years to your life, but life to your years. Yes, it’s cheesy to say. But it’s true. 

Longevity means maintaining mobility, mental sharpness, and emotional connections. Aging well means staying active, autonomous, and engaged. We want both!

Aging well with longevity relies on 3 main facets. Take away 1, and the entire foundation wobbles. These principles (independence, purpose, and physical capacity) support a life that remains vibrant, capable, and meaningful over time. It’s key to mindfully nourish all of them, especially as we grow older.

1. Agency and Independence: Maintain your independence by strategically planning your financial, social, and living situations. Surround yourself with a supportive environment that helps you age on your terms.
2. Purpose and Connection: Meaningful relationships and clear purpose boost your health. Actively cultivate friendships and engage in passions that enrich your daily life. Stay mentally stimulated! Chase those hobbies and pursue community. You’re never too old to laugh or learn. Exercise your brain no matter how old you get.
3. Physical Capacity: Your best allies in aging well are daily movement, quality sleep, and nourishing food. These are the “non-negotiables”. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and proper rest aren’t the latest hip health podcaster fix, but they’re foundational and essential.

Avoid the Noise, Forget the Fads 

There’s no such thing as a miracle cure. Aging gracefully isn’t about adopting the latest biohacking trend. The reality is, the body is complicated, and what works is nothing new. This is stuff you already know. Yeah, it’s boring. Keep your approach boring! And backed by science, of course. 

Regular Exercise: Move daily to enhance cardiovascular health, mental clarity, and overall energy.

Quality Sleep: Consistent, quality rest reduces chronic disease risk and preserves cognitive function.

Balanced Diet: Prioritize nutritious, whole foods rich in antioxidants, and take quality supplements when the diet falls short.

John's Go-To Supplements for Aging Well

While John’s battle strategy prioritizes foundational habits, he includes trusted supplements to bolster a daily routine:

• GSH+ (Glutathione) This antioxidant is for detoxification, immunity and cellular defense. As we age, our natural glutathione levels decline, so supplementing may support liver health, immunity, and protection against oxidative stress.
• Cell Fuel Broad spectrum support for your mitochondria…your mighty cellular energy generators.
• Opti-A.I. Extra A blend for joints, brain, and inflammation control. It includes turmeric and boswellia for anti-inflammatory effects, collagen type II for joint resilience, and resveratrol and quercetin to support cellular longevity.
• Optimized Adrenal Balance  Includes the 4 primary adaptogens for increasing resilience to all types of stress: Rhodiola, Ashwagandha, Ginseng, and Holy Basil
• High Potency Resveratrol Aging bodies benefit from improved circulation and cellular repair. Resveratrol supports cardiovascular health and has been linked to cognitive protection, which is ideal for staying mentally sharp.
• Neptune Krill Oil Packed with omega-3s and astaxanthin, krill oil helps reduce inflammation and may support brain health and heart function. It’s also easier to absorb than many fish oils and may improve joint comfort over time.

Remember: You can always contact us with your wellness questions. We’re here to help! 

Aging with Strategy and Confidence

Aging strategies aren’t about reinventing the wheel. Keep consistent in nurturing your body. Be smart. Stay straightforward. Supplement strategically.

We’re all in this “getting old” thing together: let’s fight the good fight! 

 

References

Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). Exercise and aging: Can you walk away from Father Time? Harvard Health.  

Topol, E. (2023). Super Agers: The Science Behind Exceptional Longevity. New York, NY: Basic Books.