At 78 years old, Dr. Michael Roizen claims his biological age is 57.6. How does he manage to defy age? According to Roizen, it’s not just about exercise and diet but also about the supplements he takes daily. In this article, I’ll share the five essential supplements Dr. Roizen uses to help maintain his youthful vitality and extend his longevity.
1. Multivitamins: The Foundation of Health
Dr. Roizen takes half a multivitamin twice a day, a regimen he believes helps keep his vitamin levels stable.
- Benefits: Evidence suggests multivitamins might lower the risk of dementia and cancer. A 2022 study found that daily multivitamin use could improve cognition and memory in older adults.
- Current Research: Despite some promising studies, a 2022 review by the US Preventive Services Task Force found no solid evidence that multivitamins prevent cardiovascular disease or cancer.
- Practical Tip: While the debate continues, a balanced multivitamin could support general health, especially if you struggle to get enough nutrients from food alone.
2. Low-Dose Aspirin: For Cardiovascular Health
Dr. Roizen takes a low dose of aspirin (81 milligrams, also known as “baby aspirin”) twice a day.
- Purpose: Aspirin is believed to help prevent heart attacks and strokes due to its blood-thinning properties.
- Risks: Long-term aspirin use can lead to bleeding complications, so it’s crucial to assess individual risks with a healthcare provider.
- Current Recommendations: The US Preventive Services Task Force does not recommend daily aspirin for adults over 60 unless they have specific health conditions.
3. CoQ10: Cellular Energy and Antioxidant Support
CoQ10 is a substance that helps convert food into energy and acts as an antioxidant. Dr. Roizen takes CoQ10, particularly because statins, which he also takes to manage cholesterol, can reduce the body’s natural CoQ10 levels.
- Benefits: CoQ10 may reduce the effects of ageing on the skin and help counteract oxidative damage from free radicals.
- Research Findings: A small 2022 study did not find that CoQ10 alleviates muscle pain in people taking statins. The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health notes limited evidence on its benefits for blood pressure and heart failure.
- Usage Tip: If you’re on statins, CoQ10 might be worth discussing with your doctor as it could help mitigate some side effects.
4. ASU (Avocado-Soybean Unsaponifiables): Joint Health
ASU, derived from avocado and soybean extracts, is used by Roizen to manage osteoarthritis pain.
- Benefits: ASU has anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate osteoarthritis symptoms.
- Current Evidence: Some studies support ASU’s benefits for osteoarthritis, but more long-term research in humans is needed.
- Recommendation: If joint pain is a concern, ASU could be a beneficial addition to your supplement routine, but consult with your healthcare provider first.
5. Ergothioneine: A Unique Antioxidant
Ergothioneine, found in mushrooms, is an antioxidant that Dr. Roizen incorporates into his diet through mushroom sandwiches.
- Benefits: It may help reduce DNA damage from UV exposure and has been linked to a lower risk of coronary artery disease.
- Research Insights: A 2020 study associated higher dietary intake of ergothioneine with reduced risk of heart disease. However, the benefits of supplementing with ergothioneine are less clear.
- Dietary Tip: Including mushrooms in your diet could be an easy way to boost your ergothioneine intake naturally.
Conclusion: Age Gracefully with Supplements
Dr. Michael Roizen’s supplement regimen is a blend of conventional wisdom and personal health strategy. While some of these supplements have robust support from studies, others have mixed results.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly if you have underlying health conditions or are on medication.
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