In the US , soaking in cold water, intermittent fasting, vegetarianism, and using red light therapy or Nicotinamide Mononucleotide are popular anti-aging methods.
Previously, the anti-aging and longevity industry primarily targeted the upper class and wealthy businesspeople. However, it has now become a mainstream trend.
People are spending money on various prescription drugs like Metformin and seeking therapies such as peptide injections in the hope of reversing the aging process. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global longevity market is estimated to reach nearly $189 billion by 2028.
Research suggests that some popular methods may actually slow down cellular aging, enhance cognitive function, and even delay the onset of chronic diseases. However, according to Anant Vinjamoori, medical director of Modern Age, people should view these methods simply as tools, neither good nor bad. He added that their ultimate value depends on the context of use and should be adjusted to suit individual needs.
One of the popular anti-aging methods is Immersing oneself in cold water, also known as cryotherapy, involves spending a few minutes in a tub or pool of water below freezing. This is believed to slow down the aging process of cells.
According to Dr. Vinjamoori, this method offers both short-term and long-term benefits. Soaking in a cold water bath increases the production of neurotransmitters such as epinephrine and dopamine, which have a rejuvenating effect and provide immediate energy.
"In the medium and long term, some evidence suggests that exposure to cold temperatures may reduce systemic inflammation, which is known to be a cause of many chronic diseases," Vinjamoori added.
Many people use the method of limiting meal times. To have better health in old age, research shows that regulating meal times improves conditions such as diabetes and obesity, and strengthens the body's defenses against oxidative stress.
"For me, the main benefit of this method is regulating the circadian rhythm. Limiting calorie intake in the evening helps improve sleep," Vinjamoori said.
A woman bathes in a frozen lake. Photo: iStock
Others eliminate meat from their diet, adopting vegetarian or plant-based diets. According to studies, those who completely or partially cut out animal protein and follow a plant-based diet live longer and healthier lives.
David Sinclair, a Harvard Medical School professor and expert in longevity research, says that a diet rich in animal protein only makes people feel healthy for a short time.
"Data from population studies shows that a meat-based diet does not contribute to long-term longevity," he said.
In many Blue Zones—areas where people live to be 100 years old—dietary habits are often plant-based.
For those with better financial means, red light therapy It is popular. Users typically wear a specialized mask with LEDs or lasers, exposing their bodies to red light – the longest wavelength on the visible spectrum.
Previous research has shown that "bathing" in red light for 5 to 20 minutes increases the production of adenosine triphosphate, a compound that provides and stores energy for cells.
"More research is needed to understand the true benefits of this method. However, there is ample evidence suggesting it improves a number of skin conditions such as acne, aging, hair loss, wound care, and sun damage," says dermatologist Laura Buford.
In the anti-aging craze, Nicotinamide Mononucleotide , or NMN, is highly sought after. This supplement helps increase levels of NAD+, a crucial coenzyme in the body. NAD+ plays an essential role in supporting metabolism and maintaining healthy cell function. This supplement is highly coveted by many billionaires.
Professor Sinclair of Harvard Medical School explains that the human body uses NAD+ as a "measure of aging." As people age, NAD+ levels decrease, enzymes that repair and protect the body are affected, and people can no longer fight aging naturally.
Because NAD+ is a large molecule, it is difficult for humans to absorb directly. Sinclair recommends using dietary supplements containing this substance, such as Vitamin B3 and Nicotinamide riboside (NR).
Besides NMN, many people use ashwagandha , an anti-aging herb in Ayurveda—an ancient system of medicine originating in India. This herb is classified as an adaptogen and has numerous health benefits, from reducing anxiety and soothing arthritis to enhancing cognitive function.
Citing studies, Vinjamoori said that ashwagandha helps reduce cortisol, a hormone associated with stress. It also helps improve sleep for those suffering from insomnia.
Recent research published in the National Library of Medicine also suggests that ashwagandha may be a potential anti-aging ingredient. Another study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine shows that ashwagandha helps maintain the length of important proteins at the ends of chromosomes, called telomeres. These are often shortened during DNA replication and are considered a key factor in "accelerating cellular aging."
Thuc Linh (According to Business Insider )
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