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What Vitamins Prevent Skin From Aging?
by Stephanie S. Grell
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Overview
Every week brings consumers reports of new miracle cures against aging. Beauty and health companies often tout different minerals and vitamins as the "next big thing" in preventing disease and turning back the clock. In truth, there is no magic bullet against aging, but some vitamins may help slow or repair the aging process. How do you know which vitamins to use? Easy; just remember the first five letters of the alphabet: A,B,C,D and E.
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Function
If you've ever read an article about anti-aging, you've read about the importance of antioxidants. Oxidation, or the changing---and aging---of our body's cells, is a normal process. But over time, free radicals, the byproducts of oxidation, can attack healthy cells, resulting in cancers, stroke or heart disease. Some vitamins may help slow down the oxidation process or destroy free radicals, thus helping to prevent common diseases that occur with aging. Vitamins C an E often are used for this purpose.
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Types
Most vitamins come in powder or pill form, meant to be taken daily. You also can buy vitamin fortified cereals and breads. Although taking a supplement is easy, most health experts agree that the best way to consume antioxidants is in their natural state: fruits, vegetables and whole foods. Eggs, leafy greens, citrus fruits and brightly-colored berries are rich with anti-aging nutrition.
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Topical Vitamins
Some doctor's believe that certain vitamins applied topically can help reduce the signs of aging on the skin. Vitamin A, in the form of a retinoid, is commonly prescribed by dermatologists to reduce age spots and wrinkles. Many face creams and serums also contain vitamin C, which fights the free radicals that cause sun damage to the face and neck.
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Promising Studies
Two vitamins, B and D, have new and encouraging results when it comes to preventing the aging process. Vitamin B complexes including B-12, help nerve function, and research continues to see if the vitamin can help prevent Alzheimer's disease. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and thus helps create stronger bones. As osteoporosis is a concern for aging women, vitamin D may be very beneficial. The best news is D is free: Ten minutes of sun exposure per day is enough to get your daily vitamin D requirement.
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Warning
As with many natural health supplements, there are conflicting views on the efficacy of taking large doses of antioxidants. Some studies suggest that vitamins in high doses may actually harm the body, causing stress on organs. However, no doctor disputes the power of a healthy diet, and a general multi-vitamin is safe for most people. Taking one can help make up for holes in the diet and is especially important for vegetarians or vegans.
