Science-based anti-ageing nutritional recommendations

In this chapter, we have focused on the most recent science-based aspects of anti-ageing nutritional recommendations that have emerged in recent years. Several nutrients present anti-ageing health benefits and obtaining adequate amounts of these from various foods plays a vital role in maintaining normal function of the human body. However, most people do not consume an optimal amount of some micronutrients from their diet alone, and in reality the offer and the uncontrolled use of nutritional supplements is widespread. For that reason, the different levels of bioavailability of the diverse types of supplements (pills, capsules and liquids) are discussed. Furthermore, we consider the numerous factors that affect the bioavailability of particular nutrients, such as the chemical form, the food or matrix in which the nutrient is consumed and the interaction with other foods in the diet. The cross-talk with some drugs is also briefly characterized. The benefits and dangers of nutraceuticals, natural plant foods and the use of nutritional therapy and phytotherapy are discussed. There is a strong pressure from public opinion for consumption of these nutritional products to boost, protect and prime us for a longer and a healthier life and advice based on scientific evidence is very scarce. Finally, the authors compiled the main key points of the previous chapters of the book and described the most recent lifestyle strategies for successful ageing.