Ageless Nutrition Multi Complex

The Ageless Nutrition Multi Complex includes six professional-grade supplements required to protect your appearance, performance, health, and wealth from premature aging. Kit components are formulated to provide an optimal daily allowance of essential vitamins, minerals, and microelements for active adults. 

Taking these supplements regularly will help you accomplish the following goals:

• Preserve your appearance from premature aging-related changes such as wrinkles, sagging skin, thinning hair, graying hair, dry skin, age spots, drooping eyelids, reduction of height, bent legs and spine, and weight gain.

• Maintain your work performance that otherwise gets diminished by aging-related lack of energy, memory loss, medication side effects, depression, and ensuing fears and anxieties.

• Protect your memory, mobility, dexterity, hearing, and eyesight. Any of those losses may permanently curtail your ability to live and function independently.

• Enhance your immunity and resistance to infectious respiratory disorders such as COVID-19 and its complications that may lead to extended hospital stays, long-term disability, or death.

• Improve your quality of life by preventing chronic pain, fatigue, nausea, insomnia, urinary or fecal incontinence, risk of falls, and ensuing complications.

• Avoid medical errors, which are now the third leading cause of death in the United States. If you are healthy and don't need medical interventions, the chances of medical errors are zero.

• Prevent permanent disability and loss of independence related to neurological disorders such as dementia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's diseases.

• Safeguard your wealth from run-away medical bills, inability to earn income, and loss of assets.

The Ageless Nutrition Multi Complex includes six core supplements: B-complex, Vitamin D-3, Natural Vitamin E, Calcium and Magnesium, buffered (non-acidic) Vitamin C, and an Ultra Minerals formula with all essential microelements.

Vitamin E Vitamin C Cal-Mag Vitamin D-3 B-Complex 50 Ultra Minerals

All supplements in the kit are easy to take, safe for long-term use, non-addictive, and free of additives, fillers, artificial colorings, preservatives, and GMO ingredients. The following overview focuses on their properties related to preventing aging-related disorders.

Natural Vitamin E with Mixed Tocopherols

Vitamin E is an essential fat-soluble vitamin that is crucial for maintaining overall health, well-being, and plays an important role in preventing premature aging and aging-related degenerative disorders.

Vitamin E supports the proper functioning of nerves and muscles by preventing the oxidation of lipids within cell membranes. Its protective qualities are particularly beneficial for preventing cardiovascular disease, cancer, and aging of cells.

Vitamin E deficiencies are linked to impaired immune responses, especially in older adults. It’s instrumental in preventing inflammation, supports the health of blood vessels by reducing the oxidation of cholesterol, which can lead to plaque formation, and plays a role in eye health, potentially reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.

Here is a summary of vitamin E's aging-protective qualities:

• Skin health. Helps to moisturize the skin, protect it from UV damage, and may reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines — all of the signs of premature aging that start to become apparent in the mid to late forties.

• Immune function. Aging is associated with a decline in immune function (immunosenescence). Vitamin E helps to support the immune system, potentially reducing the risk of infections and inflammatory conditions. This property may help prevent COVID-19-related complications and “long COVID,” a group of health symptoms persisting after an initial infection. Symptoms may last weeks, months, or even years and are often debilitating, so it may be a good idea to prevent this from happening by taking vitamin E in advance of potential infection.

• Neuroprotection. There is some evidence that Vitamin E might have a neuroprotective effect, potentially slowing cognitive decline and reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

• Eye health. Vitamin E, in combination with other essential supplements, may slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration, a common cause of blindness in older adults.

• Heart health. Evidence suggests that Vitamin E might help prevent or slow the development of atherosclerosis, heart disease, and stroke.

Natural vitamin E has eight forms: alpha-, beta-, gamma-, and delta-tocopherol. Tocopherols are the most common forms of vitamin E found in human diets.

• Alpha-tocopherol (α-tocopherol) is the most biologically active form, recognized by the body as the primary form of vitamin E. It is absorbed more efficiently and has the highest antioxidant activity compared to other tocopherols.

• Beta-tocopherol (β-tocopherol) is less biologically active than α-tocopherol but still contributes to overall vitamin E status. It has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It may also play a role in reducing the risk of certain chronic diseases.

• Gamma-tocopherol (γ-tocopherol) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties similar to β-tocopherol. It may also play a role in protecting against certain types of cancer.

• Delta-tocopherol (δ-tocopherol) is the least common form of tocopherol and has the lowest biological activity. However, it still contributes to overall vitamin E status and may have unique health benefits.

I highlight these variations to stress the importance of obtaining a natural vitamin E formula that includes all these forms because most supplements and fortified foods contain only a single form of synthetic vitamin E, such as dl-alpha-tocopherol or d-alpha-tocopherol acetate.

An organic diet isn’t a particularly reliable or effective source of vitamin E because it is found mainly in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils, such as almonds, hazelnuts, and sunflower seeds. Sunflower, safflower, and wheat germ oils are top sources of oils. Two other common sources are avocados and kiwis.

High heat, especially frying, destroys vitamin E and increases the toxicity of vegetable oils by forming trans fats. Along with oils, vitamin E degrades when exposed to air and light due to rancidiation. For the same reasons, the vitamin E content in foods decreases even under ideal storage conditions.

Besides the low potency and toxicity of rancid fats, the high caloric content of vegetable fats is an even more insidious problem behind obesity. The high fiber content of seeds and nuts is another concern for maintaining digestive health.

To meet your minimum daily vitamin E needs solely from avocados, you'd need to consume 7 to 8 medium avocados daily, or about 2,576 calories. One medium-sized kiwi contains about 1.1 milligrams of vitamin E. Given that the minimum recommended daily vitamin E intake is around 15 milligrams, you must eat about 14 medium-sized kiwis daily or 588 calories.

Understanding those negatives and considering the high cost and hassle of getting vitamin E from food sources, I’ve been taking natural vitamin E supplements daily since 1996. My face is still free of wrinkles, age spots, and other signs of age-related skin damage.

I consider my immunity normal because I haven’t been affected by any disorders related to diminished immunity. I don’t have a single neurological disorder typical for my age. I don’t have cataracts, glaucoma, or macular degeneration. My cardiovascular health markers, such as resting heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, are similar to younger adults.

The same goes for neurological disorders typical for my age, such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia, Parkinson's disease, migraines, tinnitus (ear ringing), peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage of the extremities), tremors in hands and arms, dizziness, and vertigo, despite my crazy-high workload and stressful job.

Finally, I don't take a single medication typical for people of my age, and it is a real pleasure to lead a life without a constant fear of getting a heart attack, stroke, or dementia.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

PureWay Vitamin C Capsules

PureWay-C is a buffered (non-acidic) form of Vitamin C developed to enhance its absorption and effectiveness compared to pure ascorbic acid or other ascorbate derivatives.

Vitamin C is crucial for the biosynthesis of collagen, an essential component of connective tissue. Collagen supports wound healing, maintains skin integrity, and ensures the proper functioning of bones and blood vessels. Scurvy — the first known pathology associated with vitamin C — results from innate collagen deficiency, hence the “C” for Collagen.

Vitamin C enhances iron absorption and protects the body from iron-deficiency anemia. It bolsters the immune system by supporting cellular functions of both the innate and adaptive immune systems.

It also influences the differentiation and growth of white blood cells (leukocytes), which are the cells of the immune system. These cells provide a protective barrier function against pathogens and reduce the severity of allergic reactions and autoimmunity.

Here is a summary of vitamin C's aging-protective qualities:

• Skin health. Collagen is a protein that gives skin, hair, nails, and connective tissues structure. It also helps neutralize UV exposure damage and aid in the skin's ability to heal itself.

• Immune function. As we age, our immune function tends to decline. Vitamin C helps stimulate the immune system by enhancing white blood cell function and activity and increasing the levels of antibodies in the body.

• Cardiovascular health. Aging is a risk factor for many cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin C helps maintain the health of blood vessels, and a deficiency can lead to a range of problems, including a higher risk of heart disease.

• Memory and cognition. Oxidative stress and inflammation are two factors that can contribute to cognitive and memory decline during aging. Vitamin C helps protect brain structures against this decline by combating oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Eyesight. Age-related macular degeneration and cataracts are common causes of vision loss as we age. Some evidence suggests that vitamin C, in conjunction with other essential nutrients, can help slow the progression of these conditions.

• Leukemia (blood cancer). Some research indicates that vitamin C can regulate the function and proliferation of hematopoietic (blood-forming) stem cells, potentially impacting leukemia's development. Vitamin C deficiency might disrupt the regulation of these stem cells, leading to an increased risk of leukemia.

• Cancer. Vitamin C is known to influence the epigenetic regulation of genes. It acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the demethylation of DNA, thereby affecting gene expression. Abnormalities in these processes can contribute to the onset of all types of cancers, including leukemia.

The primary food sources of vitamin C are fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, apples, and kiwi; vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, kale, broccoli, brussels sprouts, tomatoes, and potatoes, and fortified juices, such as orange or grapefruit juice.

There are several problems with obtaining vitamin C from these sources:

• Low amount of vitamin C. Fresh fruits and vegetables contain relatively low amounts of vitamin C, requiring the consumption of large quantities to meet daily needs.

• Potency loss during storage and cooking: Vitamin C is sensitive to heat, light, and air. It quickly degrades during storage and almost completely during cooking.

• Large amount of carbohydrates. Fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C are also high in natural sugars and starches. This represents a problem for anyone with pre-diabetes, diabetes, and obesity. They are also a taboo for anyone on a Keto-style diet.

• Excessive soluble and insoluble fiber. Consuming high amounts of fiber to get enough vitamin C from fruits and vegetables could lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, and discomfort in most people.

• High acidity. Citrus fruits are highly acidic and can aggravate conditions like acid reflux, duodenitis, gastritis, and enteritis in sensitive individuals.

• Allergenicity. Some people may be allergic to fruits like citrus or kiwi. Strawberries can be highly allergenic for sensitive individuals. Nightshade vegetables such as tomatoes and potatoes can cause adverse autoimmune reactions and inflammation.

• Appetite stimulants. Natural sugars and acids in fruits stimulate the appetite, increasing food intake and contributing to weight gain.

• Teeth and gum damage. The acidity and sugars in vitamin C-rich fruits erode dental enamel over time, particularly if teeth are not promptly rinsed or brushed after consumption. This erosion leads to tooth sensitivity and cavities. Sugars from fruits or other sources become trapped in the spaces around the teeth and beneath the gumline and foster bacterial growth. This bacteria's metabolic processes produce acids and contribute to periodontal disease, a leading cause of premature tooth loss.

As you can see, obtaining sufficient vitamin C from natural sources is impractical for anyone, and even more so for people who need a lot more, such as older adults, smokers, consumers of alcohol, people with certain medical conditions and high levels of physical stress, and for recovery after surgery, trauma, restrictive diet, and similar other circumstances.

Knowing all this, I’ve been taking several grams of vitamin C daily since 1996 (age 42), and its age-defying qualities have been undeniable: my skin hasn’t changed much since then. I am free of hypertension, heart disease, and atherosclerosis. My memory and cognitive skills are intact, I am free of glaucoma and cataracts.

Notably, I never used sunscreens or avoided indirect sunlight. I walked my dogs for 16 years without any protection, used to ride a bike for many years, am an avid daily walker, and any time the sun is out, I work for an hour or two on the enclosed sunlit terrace of our house.

None of those attainments can be written off on genetics, diet, lifestyle, or good luck because I don’t know anyone my age who hasn’t been affected by some or most of the above conditions and disorders.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

Calcium & Magnesium Citrates

Calcium and magnesium are essential macro minerals. They are crucial for maintaining bone strength, blood homeostasis, and regulating blood pressure and blood circulation. Calcium and magnesium supplementation is critical for maintaining health and longevity because of their endemic deficiencies in urban diets.

The body of an average adult stores between 1,000 and 1,200 grams (2.2 to 2.6 lb) of calcium. Approximately 99% of this calcium is found in the bones and teeth, providing their structural support. The remaining 1% circulates in the blood, vital for muscle function, nerve transmission, intracellular signaling, and blood clotting.

An adult body contains about 25 grams (0.85 oz) of magnesium. Most magnesium (about 50-60%) is stored in the bones that serve as a reservoir to maintain magnesium levels in the blood. The rest is predominantly found in soft tissues and extracellular fluids.

Calcium is crucial for blood coagulation (clotting). It helps facilitate the conversion of prothrombin to thrombin, a key step in forming a blood clot. This process is essential for stopping bleeding and healing after tissue injury. Calcium also acts as a key signaling molecule in various cellular activities, including muscle contraction and relaxation and the secretion of hormones and enzymes.

Magnesium acts as a natural calcium antagonist, helping to relax blood vessels and improve blood flow by counteracting the constriction effects of calcium on vascular smooth muscle cells. Magnesium is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, including those important for ATP (adenosine triphosphate) production, the primary energy carrier in cells, and the synthesis of DNA and RNA.

This formula contains small quantities of vitamin D (125 I.U.), vitamin K (50 mcg), and Boron (3 mg), which are required for bone formation—a process involving the deposition of these minerals inside the bone matrix, opposite of resorption.

Here is a summary of calcium aging-protective qualities:

• Bone health. Our bodies regularly break down and rebuild bone tissue, which needs a constant supply of calcium. This process becomes unbalanced as we age, with more bone tissue broken down than rebuilding. This results in soft (osteomalacia) and brittle (osteoporosis) bones. The only way to slow the loss of bone mass associated with aging is to consume enough calcium, along with other related co-factors.

• Cardiovascular health. Calcium is vital for maintaining the normal functioning of the heart, which includes maintaining a regular heartbeat. It's involved in muscle contraction, which is how the heart beats and pumps blood. Additionally, some research has suggested that adequate dietary calcium might help to maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

• Neuromuscular functions. Calcium is also involved in nerve signal transmission and muscle function. Inadequate calcium levels can lead to numbness and tingling in the fingers, convulsions, and abnormal heart rhythms.

• Dental health. Calcium is essential for keeping your teeth healthy and can help prevent tooth loss that sometimes comes with age.

Magnesium plays a role in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, including those involved in synthesizing fat, protein, and nucleic acids, neurological activity, muscular contraction and relaxation, cardiac activity, and bone metabolism. Here are some ways in which magnesium contributes to health as we age:

• Contraction and relaxation. Magnesium is vital for muscle contractions. It acts as a natural calcium blocker to help muscles relax. Calcium ions flow into the muscle cells when a muscle needs to contract. Magnesium then helps push the calcium out of the cells when it's time for the muscles to relax. This push-pull relationship between calcium and magnesium is essential for proper muscle function.

• Energy production. Magnesium is a cofactor in the biochemical reactions that generate ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the primary energy molecule in our cells. ATP is particularly important in muscles during physical activity.

• Electrolyte balance. Magnesium helps maintain electrolyte balance in your body. This balance is crucial for muscle function, nerve function, and maintaining a healthy heartbeat.

• Prevention of cramps and spasms. Low magnesium levels can lead to muscle cramps and spasms because without enough magnesium, muscles may not relax properly, leading to cramping.

• Protein synthesis. Magnesium is involved in protein synthesis, essential for muscle development and repair. It is particularly important for athletes and individuals engaged in regular physical training.

• Bone health. Approximately 60% of the body's magnesium is found in the bones. It contributes to the structural development of bone and is needed for synthesizing DNA, RNA, and the antioxidant glutathione. Magnesium also plays a role in the balance of calcium in the body, which is vital for maintaining healthy bones. Adequate magnesium intake is key to preventing osteoporosis and related conditions characterized by weak and brittle bones common in older adults.

• Heart health. Magnesium is crucial for maintaining a healthy heartbeat. It naturally competes with calcium, which stimulates the heart to contract. By balancing calcium, magnesium aids in maintaining a healthy heartbeat. Additionally, it helps manage blood pressure levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

• Mental health and sleep quality. Magnesium plays a significant role in brain function and mood. Low levels are linked to an increased risk of depression, which can be a concern in older adults. Additionally, magnesium helps regulate the body's sleep cycle, and adequate intake may improve sleep quality - a common issue in the aging population.

• Diabetes. Aging is a risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Magnesium plays a crucial role in glucose control and insulin metabolism. Low levels of magnesium have been linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.

• Migraine headaches. Low magnesium concentrations in the blood have been reported in individuals affected by recurring migraine headaches that increase with aging.

Foods rich in magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes. Obtaining adequate magnesium from these sources leads to the same negatives and concerns I outlined for vitamin E.

Reading this section, you may ask me a reasonable question: “Konstantin, but how did people get their magnesium, calcium, and the rest of the essential minerals and microelements in the past, before the supplements and supermarkets?”

Certainly not from leafy greens, nuts, seeds, grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables because these foods were seasonable and unavailable year-round before the advent of industrial-scale agriculture, refrigeration, and global logistics.

Instead, raw water from a clean well, spring, lake, or river was (and still is in many places) a primary source of essential minerals and microelements. During the agricultural era, dairy products (raw and fermented milk and cheeses) were important sources in some regions and cultures.

If you live near a source of clean, mineral-rich water and can consume it daily for drinking and cooking, you may not need extra supplements, except for iron and iodine in some regions.

I benefited mightily from augmenting my diet with calcium and magnesium supplements. I already remarked on being free of heart disease and surviving late-stage type 2 diabetes in my early forties and remained diabetes-free since.

By the age of 70 years, most men experience height loss ranging from 0.5 to 2 inches (1.25 to 5 centimeters) due to spinal compression caused by bone loss. My height at 69 is the same as it was at 25, and my gait (walk pattern) too, so from the back, you would never know my age. That means I am free of osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, osteomalacia (softening of the bones), and arthritis.

Just like with all other age-related pathologies, it is a pleasure not to experience back pain, not to have feet and palms disfigured by arthritis, not to take ibuprofen for painful joints, not to suffer from worn-out knees and hips, and not to experience life-altering bone fractures from accidental falls or car accidents.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

Vitamin D-3

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in health and aging, serving as a key regulator of calcium and phosphorus metabolism, which is vital for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis, a common condition in older adults. It enhances intestinal absorption of calcium, supporting bone mineralization and skeletal integrity.

Vitamin D has been linked to a reduced risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain cancers due to its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects.

In the context of aging, adequate vitamin D levels are associated with improved muscle function, reducing the risk of falls and fractures, which are significant concerns for the elderly.

Emerging research suggests a potential role of vitamin D in cognitive health, proposing that sufficient levels may protect against cognitive decline and dementia.

Our bodies can produce vitamin D when our skin is exposed to sunlight. Ironically, we are told to avoid or obstruct the sun with sunblock. As we age, our ability to synthesize vitamin D in this way decreases, which makes it even more important to get adequate amounts from our diet or supplements.

Here is a summary of vitamin D aging-protective qualities:

• Bone Health. Vitamin D significantly absorbs calcium and phosphorus, two minerals essential for bone health. Vitamin D deficiency can decrease calcium absorption, promoting osteoporosis and fractures.

• Muscle Function. Vitamin D is crucial for muscle function, and deficiencies can lead to weakness and falls, particularly in older adults. There is evidence that vitamin D supplementation can improve muscle strength and reduce the risk of falling in this population.

• Immune Function. Vitamin D has been shown to modulate the immune response. Our immune function naturally declines as we age, a phenomenon known as immunosenescence. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels may help to support immune function and reduce the risk of infections.

• Mental Health and Cognitive Function. Vitamin D receptors are widely distributed in the brain, and vitamin D has been shown to play a role in maintaining cognitive function and mental health. Deficiencies in vitamin D have been linked with an increased risk of cognitive decline, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.

• Cardiovascular Health. Vitamin D may also play a role in heart health. Some research has suggested a link between low levels of vitamin D and increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke.

• Cancer Prevention. Some evidence suggests that vitamin D might play a role in reducing the risk of certain types of cancers, including colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer, though more research is needed.

I have already touched on most aspects of my health influenced by vitamin D supplementation, but it's worth repeating that my body is still as muscular as it was in middle age. Although the average person loses 1% to 3% of muscle mass per decade after age 30, a 70-year-old man may have lost 40-90% of his muscle mass from his 30-year-old self. That hasn't been the case in my situation.

I haven’t mentioned cancer prevention yet. Cancers are tricky to predict or prevent with as much confidence as other conditions mentioned here because most people of my generation were heavily exposed to lead, asbestos, industrial pollutants, x-rays, dental amalgams, and many other environmental carcinogens. Knowing all this, every ounce of prevention counts even more.

A note of caution!

Many doctors and health authorities recommend large — way above 1,000 UI — daily doses of vitamin D to adults. This practice causes bone resorption — a term that describes the release of calcium (and phosphate) stored in the bone tissue into the bloodstream.

The ensuing loss of calcium and phosphate causes osteomalacia or bone softening, a leading cause of bone deformities such as bow legs and spine curvature in adults. Thus, while vitamin D deficiency directly impairs bone mineralization, excessive vitamin D intake undermines bone health by causing bone demineralization.

Curiously, osteomalacia is called rickets in children and scoliosis in teenagers, and most medical professionals don’t recognize this connection. Although the primary causes of all three conditions are chronic deficiency of calcium, vitamin D, and sun exposure (as a source of endogenous vitamin D), too much vitamin D is an equally insidious risk factor.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

B-Complex 50

The B-group vitamins include eight water-soluble vitamins: B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate or folic acid), and B12 (cobalamin). All eight play crucial roles in maintaining good health and well-being. As coenzymes, B vitamins are essential cofactors in metabolizing carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

By converting these macronutrients into energy, they support the functioning of the nervous system, maintain healthy skin, sustain muscle tone, promote cognitive health, and regulate mood.

Sufficient intake of B vitamins is essential for preventing deficiencies and contributing to a healthy aging process.

Here is a summary of the B-group vitamins aging-protective qualities:

• Heart health. Vitamins B6, B9 (folate), and B12 can help reduce homocysteine, a non-protein amino acid that can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke at high levels. By lowering homocysteine levels, these vitamins contribute to heart health.

• Skin. Niacin (B3) and biotin (B7) support healthy skin and might help slow the signs of aging on the skin.

• Nervous system function. Most B vitamins, particularly B1, B6, and B12, are crucial for a healthy nervous system. They are involved in producing neurotransmitters, chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells.

• Anemia. Vitamin B12 and folate are important for forming red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Anemia, characterized by fewer red blood cells, is common with age and leads to fatigue and weakness. As we age, the absorption of vitamin B12 decreases, and supplementation becomes a must.

• Energy metabolism. B vitamins are essential for converting food into energy. Metabolic rate can slow down with age, so maintaining adequate levels of these vitamins is essential for energy support.

• Memory and cognition. Vitamins B6, B9, and B12 are important for brain health and can influence memory performance and cognitive function. Deficiencies in these vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, are associated with cognitive decline, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease in older adults.

Taking B-complex supplements daily since 1996 has positively impacted my heart, skin, blood, and nervous system health. Judging by my job performance, including the writing of this page, my energy, memory, and cognition are as good as new.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

Ultra Minerals

Minerals and microelements play important roles in various physiological processes, including building bones and teeth, blood, skin, hair production, and nerve function. These functions can be affected as we age, so an adequate intake of minerals and microelements is critical.

Microelements, or trace elements, are minerals fundamental for maintaining health and supporting aging. They include small quantities of iron, iodine, zinc, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, molybdenum, vanadium, and boron. Each plays a unique role in various biochemical and physiological functions.

In aging, adequate intake of microelements is crucial to prevent deficiencies that can exacerbate the decline in physiological functions. For example, zinc deficiency can impair immune responses, increasing susceptibility to infections, while selenium's antioxidant properties may help protect against age-related diseases. Proper balance of these microelements supports overall health, enhances longevity, and can mitigate the risk of chronic diseases, highlighting the importance of a varied and balanced diet to ensure sufficient intake throughout life.

Here are the key roles of microelements in the context of aging:

• Iron is important for forming hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to every cell. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia in older adults, characterized by fatigue and weakness.

• Iodine is an essential micronutrient the body requires in small amounts for optimal function. It's crucial for synthesizing thyroid hormones, which regulate many key biochemical reactions, including protein synthesis and enzymatic activity, and are critical determinants of metabolic activity. The role of iodine in aging is related to these functions, and a deficiency can lead to several health problems. The primary source of iodine in the diet of Americans is iodized table salt. Since the consumption of salt in the USA is so demonized, many people suffer from iodine deficiency and thyroid-related disorders.

• Zinc is essential for a healthy immune system, wound healing, taste and smell, and DNA synthesis. Zinc deficiency can lead to impaired immune function, which can concern older adults whose immune systems might naturally weaken with age.

• Selenium acts as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage. It also helps regulate thyroid function and affects the immune system. Selenium deficiency can increase the risk of certain types of chronic diseases, including heart disease and cancer, especially in older adults.

• Copper is important for various functions, including bone health, antioxidant function, neurological function, immune function, and energy production. Both too little and too much copper can lead to health problems, and maintaining a balanced intake becomes even more important as we age.

• Manganese is involved in forming connective tissue, bones, and sex hormones. It also affects fat and carbohydrate metabolism, calcium absorption, and blood sugar regulation. As we age, ensuring an adequate intake of manganese can contribute to bone health and metabolic function.

• Chromium enhances the action of insulin, a hormone critical to the metabolism and storage of carbohydrates, fat, and protein in the body. As we age and our risk of type 2 diabetes increases, getting enough chromium can contribute to maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

• Molybdenum is a trace element and a cofactor for various enzymes detoxifying the body. It is vital for processing sulfur-containing amino acids like cysteine and methionine, which are crucial for protein synthesis and detoxification. It facilitates the conversion of harmful sulfites into harmless sulfates for excretion. Emerging research suggests molybdenum might benefit bone health, iron metabolism, and cognitive function.

• Vanadium has shown encouraging results in reducing blood sugar and improving insulin sensitivity. Limited evidence suggests vanadium could lower total and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels, potentially benefiting cardiovascular health. According to ongoing research, vanadium might also play a role in bone growth and metabolism.

• Boron plays a crucial role in bone development and calcium/magnesium metabolism, which might help prevent osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. It can influence the production and activity of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone and may ease symptoms of menopause. Boron might enhance cognitive function by improving memory, alertness, and reaction time. Finally, boron possesses anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing inflammation and contributing to overall well-being.

The only other way to get all the above microelements without supplementation is to live in a God-blessed Blue Zone regions with the highest longevity such as Sardinia in Italy, Okinawa in Japan, or Nicoya peninsula in Costa Rica. These places are known for their mineral-rich soil and artesian water that is abundant in microelements and primary minerals.

This formula also includes small amounts of calcium, magnesium, and potassium. I covered Calcium and Magnesium in the Cal-Mag section. Potassium helps maintain fluid and electrolyte balance and contributes to nerve function and muscle contraction. Potassium intake is limited to 99 mg, the maximum allowed by the FDA.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

How to take

Please follow these suggestions for taking the Ageless Nutrition Multi Complex supplements:

• The daily dose includes two tablets, two capsules, and two soft gels. Respectively, they are (1) Ultra Minerals, (2) Vitamin B-50 complex, (3) Vitamin C, (4) Calcium and Magnesium, (5) Natural Vitamin E, and (6) Vitamin D-3:

  

  This packaging of professional-grade supplements is used to optimize their rapid dissolution in the stomach, optimal assimiliation in the small intestine, and to eliminate fillers, preservatives, and artificial coloring agents.

• I recommend placing each daily dose into a pill organizer and keeping it on your dinner table. It is the only reliable way to take your supplements consistently!  These organizers are widely available in the "dollar" stores, Walmart, and online. Do not skip this step!

  

• Take your supplements with a meal that contains fats. This allows supplements to assimilate along with food gradually. The presence of fats in the meal enhances the assimilation of fat-soluble vitamins A, E, D, and K, and improves the assimilation of minerals.

• It is OK to take any three supplements with the first meal and the remaining three with the second.

• Avoid ingesting too much water when swallowing supplements, particularly after the meal. Excess water hampers digestion by diluting the concentration of digestive juices. It may not be as apparent in healthy young adults, but is a concern for anyone with impaired digestion, a history of gastric disorders, or adults past 50. For this reason, it‘s best to use fluids that accompany your meal, such as wine, soup, or mineral water.

• If you are routinely choking on pills, try swallowing them during the meal. In many cases, the difficulty is physiological, considering the considerable size of the bolus (a lump of chewed food) that we all swallow easily. Some people (myself included) can swallow several capsules in one “scoop” easier than one by one.

• These supplements feature capsules with rapid disintegration characteristics (that‘s a good asset!). If you use hot liquids to swallow them, they get sticky and may get attached to the wall of the esophagus. In this case, just chew on some food, and the bolus will push them through.

• On the days you may be taking Hydro-CM formula, set aside vitamin C and Cal/Mag supplements. You‘ll be getting enough as it is.

• If you can‘t swallow pills or have a tendency to choke, switch to good quality liquid supplements instead. It‘s not a good idea to force yourself or choke accidentally.

• Don‘t give capsules or tablets to young children to prevent choking. Use liquid supplements instead.

• Don‘t take encapsulated supplements if you had stomach reduction surgery. Take liquid supplements instead.

• Don‘t double up the amount if you missed a day. Though you wouldn‘t harm yourself, a larger concentration of supplements isn‘t likely to digest as efficiently

• If you take supplements consistently, it's perfectly OK to miss a few days because vitamins and minerals are nutrients, not drugs. Most people never take any supplements, and they live too. So, taking or not taking supplements over the long term depends on your goals and priorities.

Finally, as much as I would appreciate referrals, I urge you to exercise discretion while taking supplements. It‘s never a good idea to flaunt supplements in front of your uninitiated co-workers, bosses, or clients while eating out or in the company‘s cafeteria. Some people may simply not understand what you are doing or may think you are taking medications. If you want to help someone, recommend that they read this site and my books.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

What to expect

Don't expect immediate and dramatic improvements. While basic supplements support your overall nutrient intake and prevent deficiencies, they aren’t magic pills or instant elixirs of youth, and their benefits are subtle.

High-quality supplements should be completely unnoticeable in day-to-day use — no highs, no withdrawal effect, no effect on the digestive tract, nor any perceptible reaction following ingestion.

Some components of the B-complex and UltraMinerals formulas have a strong smell. It is pronounced because we don’t use artificial fillers, binders, and sealers to cover them. If you are experiencing belching, you may sense their smell for up to 6 to 8 hours after a mixed meal (i.e., protein and carbs).

This is normal because the digestion of proteins usually takes that long. The belching — the escape of air and gases from the stomach — happens when the gastric valve opens up while swallowing food or saliva.

Mild belching without heartburn is normal, particularly if you drink carbonated beverages or talk while eating and swallow air. Strong belching suggests fermentation in the stomach and may indicate delayed stomach emptying, inadequate acidity, low enzymes, poor chewing, and other factors unrelated to the supplements. Supplements themselves don‘t cause or contribute to belching.

Riboflavin (vitamin B-2) is an intensely yellow water-soluble substance and may change urine color to a deeper yellow. This is normal. Also, the urine smell may change somewhat because of supplements. That‘s normal, too. You‘ll have the same effect if you consume foods rich in B-complex vitamins, such as dark leafy vegetables.

Many factors beyond your diet influence your health and well-being. These factors include genetics, physical activity, stress levels, sleep quality, environmental exposures, etc. Expecting quick changes from supplements alone is unrealistic without addressing other lifestyle factors.

These factors include a moderate diet, regular physical activity, quality sleep, a good family, an engaging job, safe driving, avoidance of alcohol, tobacco, and narcotics, safe sex, active social life, tolerance, empathy, kindness, and similar other lifestyle habits that contribute to good health and longevity.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find the answers to the questions we often hear from our clients and readers regarding supplements. You may likely have similar questions and concerns that are legitimate and justified, considering the common urban myth and conspiracy theories about this subject.

Q. Can I overdose on your supplements?

Not if you follow the recommendations on their labels and on this page.

Anything in excess, even water, may cause adverse reactions or death, and supplements are no exception. The American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC) reported 36 deaths from supplement overdoses in 2020.

For comparison with prescription drugs and a better perspective, here is an instructive excerpt from the article titled “New Prescription Drugs: A Major Health Risk With Few Offsetting Advantages” by Harvard University’s Edmond and Lily Safra Centers for Ethics:

“Few know that systematic reviews of hospital charts found that even properly prescribed drugs (aside from misprescribing, overdosing, or self-prescribing) cause about 1.9 million hospitalizations a year. Another 840,000 hospitalized patients are given drugs that cause serious adverse reactions for a total of 2.74 million serious adverse drug reactions. About 128,000 people die from drugs prescribed to them. This makes prescription drugs a major health risk, ranking 4th with stroke as a leading cause of death. The European Commission estimates that adverse reactions from prescription drugs cause 200,000 deaths; so together, about 328,000 patients in the U.S. and Europe die from prescription drugs each year. The FDA does not acknowledge these facts and instead gathers a small fraction of the cases. [link]”

That explains why getting admitted into their own hospitals is the biggest fear of most medical doctors.

Q. I can’t take vitamins with folic acid because of the MTHFR mutation.

The interaction between the MTHFR gene and folic acid regulates the processing of vitamin B9 (folate), which is crucial for cell division and DNA production, especially in pregnancy.

Some people have a variation of the MTHFR gene that may affect the conversion of supplemental folic acid into folate. This recent (2022) article from the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities (a division of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) provides the best information I was able to find on this subject: MTHFR Gene, Folic Acid, and Preventing Neural Tube Defects. If this issue is a concern, please review it.

Q. Can I take supplements before and during pregnancy?

Taking quality supplements before pregnancy is critical for preventing infertility, miscarriage, and nutrition-related birth defects. Respectively, they are:

• Neural tube defects are caused by vitamin B9 (folate) and vitamin B12 (cobalamin) deficiencies. The most common forms of neural tube defects are spina bifida and anencephaly. In spina bifida, the spinal cord doesn’t close properly, often leading to nerve damage and possibly paralysis. Anencephaly causes the failure of the brain to develop, usually resulting in the baby not surviving.

• A congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a hole in the diaphragm, which can allow abdominal organs to pass into the chest cavity. It is linked to deficiencies in vitamin B12, vitamin E, Calcium, Selenium, and vitamin A.

• Cleft Palate or Cleft Lip are deformities in the roof of the mouth (cleft palate) or the upper lip (cleft lip). These conditions result from vitamin A and vitamin B6 deficiencies.

• Blindness. Vitamin A is crucial for eye development, and its deficiency can lead to blindness or other eye-related health issues.

• Cerebral Palsy causes body movement and coordination difficulties and has been linked to a prenatal deficiency in magnesium.

• Hydrocephalus (water in the brain), limp and kidney malformations, and heart defects may be related to deficiencies in Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid, and vitamins A, B6, C, D, E, and K.

The prime childbearing age for women is generally considered to be from the late teens or early 20s to the late 20s or early 30s. This range is often associated with the best outcomes in terms of fertility and health for both the mother and the baby. During these years, women typically have the highest fertility and the lowest risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

If you are past that age, or your prior nutrition and lifestyle were suboptimal, or you are having fertility problems or had a miscarriage, or have already given birth and breastfed for at least a year, then taking quality supplements is a must.

Historically, women from wealthy families spent considerable time restoring their mineral reserves by staying for months at a time at the health spas known for their mineral-rich water. The same approach was recommended for infertility on the thesis that fresh air, sun, mineral water, and food grown in mineral-rich soil would help them recover from prior pregnancy and give birth to a healthy baby.

You can accomplish some of those objectives today by taking high-quality supplements well in advance and after each childbirth.

When it comes to actual pregnancy, high doses of vitamins A and E should be avoided during the first trimester because of the potential harm. For the safest pregnancy, follow your doctor’s directions and take doctor-recommended prenatal supplements during this critical period.

Q. Can I give your supplements to children?

Children can start taking adult supplements around 12 to 14 years, but this can vary depending on the child's weight. In general, if your child is post-puberty, and their weight and development are close or similar to adults, then you can.

The nutritional needs of children before puberty differ from adults, and they typically require supplements specifically formulated for their age group. If in doubt, consult your pediatrician.

Q. Can you recommend supplements for my pets?

If your pets are eating canned or dried foods, by law, they MUST include all essential vitamins, minerals, and microelements that are listed on the Nutrition Facts label. So, technically speaking, the minimal requirements of your pets are met with their diet.

Is that enough? Hard to say because we don’t know about those supplements' quality, freshness, and bioavailability. Here is what I know from our experience with our beloved cats.

We adopted two feral kittens in the summer of 1999. Both came from the same litter when they were around three months old. They lived, respectively, for 16 and 19 years. Judging from their completely different look and build, they were from different dads (feral cats are quite polygamous). That genetic difference somewhat explains why their lifespan wasn’t the same despite identical living conditions, love, care, and nutrition.

We fed them high-quality organic wet food (PetGuard), provided them with mineral-rich Icelandic bottled water from Trader Joe’s, and supplemented their diet with high-grade vitamins formulated for cats from Amazon (I no longer remember the brands).

Neither one has been sick once until their final days. According to their vet, the first cat passed away from a brain tumor, and the second from general organ failure related to his old age.

Besides that limited experience, I don’t know enough about pet nutrition and supplements to make responsible recommendations here.

Q. Why are your supplements so inexpensive? Did you take any shortcuts with their quality?

I would say they are reasonably priced, not inexpensive. Here are the primary reasons we can afford to price them that way:

• Our company works exclusively online and is highly optimized for efficient, low-cost operation.

• Our sales come from word of mouth, so we don't spend a crazy amount of money on search advertising, affiliate commissions, and sales personnel.

• We buy directly from the manufacturer, so there are no multiple “middlemen” between us.

• We are not associated with multi-level marketing (MLM) companies that must spend lavishly on pretty packaging and layers of sales associates.

• We don't mark up our products many times their cost to create a cachet of exclusivity similar to celebrities and prominent doctors who cater to high net worth clients.

• When you buy expensive supplements from national brands, you mainly pay for their marketing, advertising, expired inventory, resellers markup, returns, etc. The actual cost of the supplements you'll be taking is usually less than 10% of the purchase price, and so are the quality and bioavailability.

• We don't make crazy claims that must be matched with an unlimited money-back guarantee. Therefore, we don't have returns that commonly consume up to 20% of revenue and increase the prices accordingly.

Regarding the quality, my family and I have been taking these supplements since we started Ageless Nutrition in 1999 and first procured them from a reputable manufacturer. Before that time, we bought supplements from Vitamin Shoppe and local health food stores.

You can certainly pay more if you wish. The better-known companies that provide professional-grade supplements of comparable quality are Pure Encapsulation, Douglas Labs, and Klaire Labs.

Q. Can I take supplements with [any name] drug?

The American Medical Association’s Drug Database contains information on over 26,000 unique drug entries, and there is now a way for me to answer these questions reliably outside of the well-known and most common contraindications:

• Blood thinners (anticoagulants). Supplements like garlic, ginkgo biloba, turmeric, and high doses of vitamin E can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with these medications. Vitamin K is also not recommended in combination with blood thinners because coagulation of blood is its primary function in the body.

• Antidepressants. St. John's wort, a popular herbal supplement, can interact with many antidepressants, potentially causing serotonin syndrome, a serious condition with symptoms like confusion, agitation, and high fever.

• Immunosuppressants. These medications are used to prevent rejection after organ transplants. Supplements like grapefruit and echinacea can interfere with their effectiveness.

• Statins. Statins can interact with grapefruit and vitamin K for cholesterol management, potentially affecting their performance.

• Anticonvulsants. Supplements like St. John's wort and ginkgo biloba can interfere with the effectiveness of some anticonvulsant medications.

Adverse interactions may exist with other combinations of medication and supplements, so it’s best to address this question with a prescribing physician or dispensing pharmacist.

Q. What is your opinion about [any name] supplement?

There are thousands of different supplements on the market with slick labels, inventive names, outlandish healing prowesses, exotic ingredients, charismatic pitchmen and women, and the prices to match.

It’s hard not to succumb to the enthusiastic sales pitches that promise you eternal youth and full recovery from intractable conditions. Inevitably, I get a lot of emails asking my opinion about them.

Here is how I usually respond to these requests:

— If it sounds too good to be true, it probably ain’t.

— Sorry, I can’t give you a qualified opinion based primarily on a website with the expertly tailored sales pitch.

— If you believe this supplement can help you, buy and try it. Please email me a note that it has delivered on its promises.

Somehow, I’ve never heard back from anyone who contacted me in the first place.

Q. Why have supplements got a bad rap?

Supplements have garnered a bad reputation for the following primary reasons:

• Unequal quality. There's a vast difference between professional-grade supplements made with great care from high-grade components and rigorous quality control versus supermarket-grade brands manufactured abroad from the cheapest possible ingredients of questionable efficacy and provenance.

• Unrealistic expectations. Many expect near-instant results from supplements, but basic vitamins and minerals recommended here only show benefits when taken consistently over the long term.

• Starting too late. Most disorders and conditions related to premature aging aren’t reversible. You can’t, for example, regrow new teeth and the bone tissue and gums around them once they are gone because of vitamins C, D-3, K-2, calcium, and magnesium deficiencies throughout your life. You can, however, prevent age-related tooth loss if you start taking related supplements and practice proper dental hygiene while they are still intact.

• Fear, uncertainty, and doubt. The pharmaceutical industry has played a significant role in shaping the public's wary perception of supplements through consistent fear-mongering about their safety, aiming to reclassify them as 'medical foods.' This reclassification would allow them to sell supplements by prescription only at significantly higher prices.

• Consumer confusion. The term ‘supplements’ covers a broad range of products, ranging from essential vitamins and minerals to items derived from plants, bacteria, animal parts, soil, sea salts, and other exotic substances. Given the wide variety of sources and questionable claims made about them, the term ‘supplements’ has become synonymous with the term ‘frauds.’

• Lack of regulation. Unlike pharmaceuticals, supplements are not as strictly regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or equivalent bodies in other countries. This lack of tight regulation can lead to inconsistencies in quality and potency, making consumers wary of their effectiveness and safety.

• Misleading marketing. Some supplement companies use aggressive marketing tactics that promise miraculous results without sufficient scientific evidence. This overpromising leads to disillusionment when the expected benefits don't materialize and contributes to the perception that the industry is more concerned with profit than consumer health.

• Overwhelming choices. The vast array of available supplements is overwhelming for most people, making it difficult to discern which products are beneficial and which are unnecessary or harmful. This confusion can lead to skepticism and mistrust towards the supplement industry.

• Scientific scrutiny. Many supplements have been subjected to scientific studies to verify their efficacy. Media reports that point out the lack of evidence to support exaggerated health claims contribute to their bad reputation.

If you continue having doubts about the role of basic vitamins, minerals, and microelements in longevity and performance, consider learning about their deficiencies outcomes from the Merck Manual of Diagnosis and Therapy [Nutritional deficiencies].

The Merck Manual is a widely respected reference textbook for medical professionals worldwide. It contains comprehensive information on diagnosing and treating various medical conditions, including nutritional disorders. Sit down before reading because it isn’t for the faint of heart.

Q. My doctor is against taking supplements. What should I do in this situation?

I’ve yet to meet a middle-aged doctor who doesn’t take supplements. But if you run into one, find a more enlightened doctor. In my experience, “doctors against supplements” is more of an ‘urban myth’ than a reality.

Also, there are legitimate situations when a doctor may ask you not to take certain supplements, such as before surgery or procedure, during the first trimester of the pregnancy, before a lab test, and so on. In those cases, just follow your doctor’s orders.

Q. I don’t believe you and wouldn’t spend a penny on this crap!

You aren’t alone in thinking this way. Maybe this argument will change your mind:

The pet food industry in the United States operates under stringent regulations that mandate their fortification with essential nutrients. Vitamins, minerals, microelements, amino acids, and essential fatty acids – components that might be sporadic or absent in nature – are deliberately added to pet food to prevent deficiencies and promote health and longevity.

Consider this typical food label of the “Hill's Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach & Skin” with supplements highlighted in yellow [link]:

As you can see, dog food include the same supplements that are in the Ageless Nutrition Multi Complex.

The lifespan of a wolf in the wild typically ranges from 6 to 8 years. The same wolf in captivity is expected to live on this diet for 12 to 16 years.

So, if you want to be as healthy as a wolf in a zoo but double your lifespan “in the wild,” spending around a dollar a day on ‘my crap’ is, after all, worth it.

How to take What to expect F.A.Q. Top

Author's note

To realize how dramatically premature aging affects women in the United States, check out the photos of the Brown sisters below. They (from the left) — Heather (23), Mimi (15), Bebe (25), and Laurie (21) — were photographed each year between 1975 and 2014 by the husband of Bebe, a renowned American photographer Nicholas Nixon:

The Extraordinary Portraits of the Brown Sisters
by Google Arts and Culture [link]

Looking at these photos, it's truly striking how these four attractive American women from apparently a well-to-do background had aged beyond recognition as if their lives were spent in profound Dickensian poverty and hard labor.

Even though my books and website have impacted tens of thousands of lives in many profound ways, when it comes to aging, I can only speak for myself and the people close to me. Here are a few striking examples:

My wife started taking supplements along with me in 1996. It wasn't so much out of solidarity but to combat kidney stones, which, incidentally, never came back.

Age-wise, we are only four months apart. I was born in October 1954, and Tatyana in January 1955, so she and Laurie Brown (first from the right) are about the same age.

You can compare the results of her aging with the Brown sisters by perusing our family's candid and studio photos from 2012 until the present on my Facebook page [link]. It's nowhere as dramatic as the Brown sisters'.

My mother started taking supplements around the same time. Unfortunately for her, it was too late to experience their full impact at her age. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer on September 11, 2001 (yes, 9/11), and passed away 17 months later at the age of 82.

Despite a massive abdominal surgery and ten chemo treatments, she was in remarkably good physical, mental, and emotional form until the last two months of her life. The head nurse at the Memorial Kettering Sloan Cancer Center in New York City, where she was treated, interrupted a snide resident who wasn’t happy with my questioning about her treatment: “Show some respect. He knows what he is doing.” More on her story is here [link].

My parents divorced when I was six years old, so we didn't live together with my dad. Although we were close for the rest of his life, his second wife, a retired pharmacist, didn't want him to take supplements. He passed away in September 2001 at the age of 86 in the nursing home. He was committed there two years earlier because, following the dual knee replacement surgery, he couldn’t walk on his own, while pain medication made him erratic and aggressive. He was a much stronger man than I am, and I believe he could have lived much longer had he taken supplements.

When Tatyana’s mother started taking supplements in 1996, she was already bedridden for a few years with congestive heart failure and had a couple of heart attacks. She was also suffering from gallbladder stones and cataracts, but because of her heart condition and related medication, she couldn’t get a clearance for either surgery.

Following my recommendations on her diet and lifestyle, she fully recovered after a few years and was successfully operated on for cataracts and gallbladder stones. She passed away at 96 in 2019. She was medication-free and fully intact mentally and physically until the last month of her life.

Seeing his wife's full recovery from congestive heart failure, a previously skeptical Tatyana’s dad started taking supplements a few years later. Shortly after that, he was diagnosed with late-stage colon cancer and was operated in 2005. After the surgery, he was too weak to have chemotherapy and was given less than a year to live. He passed away seven years later, in 2012, at 88. He was medication-free and independent until the last three months of his life.

Two of my aunts dropped their skepticism after their own brushes with death. Aunt Rachel has been severely obese since her early thirties. She started taking supplements after a heart attack in 2004 and passed away in 2018 at 98. She was self-sufficient until the last year of her life.

My other aunt, Sima, started taking supplements after lung cancer surgery in 2002. She passed away in 2018 at 94 from a cancer relapse a few months earlier. She was fully intact physically and mentally until her passing away.

In all four cases, living to that age after surviving congestive heart failure as Tatyana's mother did, late-stage colon cancer as her dad did, or heart attack and lung cancer, as my aunts have done, are highly unlikely. Even less likely — all four didn’t have dementia, immobility, diabetes, and side effects of numerous drugs related tp those conditions because they weren’t taking any.

If you, too, decide to live a life worth living, consider taking a similar approach, and not just for the sake of your appearance:

• You may spare yourself from diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and kidney and liver failure, the primary killers of Americans of all ages.

• You may reduce or eliminate the risks of neurological disorders such as dementia, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.

• You may significantly reduce your risk of developing non-genetic cancers.

• You are less likely to become a victim of a fall or car accident caused by diminished eyesight, poor coordination, or both.

• You will not be exposed to medical risks and medication side effects that cut short over a million lives each year.

• You will save a ton of money related to medical expenses not covered by medical insurance and loss of income while sick or disabled. Over a million Americans file annually for bankruptcy related to runaway medical costs despite having medical insurance.

• You will extend your career and earning power well past retirement age. Tatyana and I are still working full-time managing GutSense.org and a software development company I co-founded in 2017 [link].

• You will enjoy a higher quality of life for a lot longer. What’s the point of longevity if it is spent in pain, diapers, or a wheelchair?

As you can see, it is never too late to start taking quality supplements. And the earlier you start, the greater the benefits you reap.

While aging isn’t reversible, the speed at which you age is. What has happened to me, my family, and millions of equally prevention-focused people stands as the ultimate proof of the benefits of taking the right supplements at the right time.

The Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated the information on this page. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.