As we age, it’s common to experience problems with memory and muscle strength. A new study suggests that a special blend of antioxidant supplements may help slow down these changes.
The study, led by Professor Koji Fukui from the Shibaura Institute of Technology and Dr. Fukka You from Gifu University, found that older mice given this antioxidant blend had better memory and stronger muscles.
The results were published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in February 2024.
Aging is linked to a process called oxidative stress. This happens when harmful molecules called free radicals build up in the body and damage cells. Over time, this can lead to memory problems, weaker muscles, and diseases like Alzheimer’s. Antioxidants, found in certain foods and supplements, help fight these free radicals and reduce cell damage.
In this study, the researchers gave older mice a mix of antioxidant supplements called Twendee X, which is similar to the commercially available product Oxycut®.
After taking the supplement, the mice showed better results in memory tests and had stronger muscles compared to those that didn’t get the supplement. These findings suggest that the supplement helped protect the brain and muscles from age-related decline.
Professor Fukui explained that even though aging naturally increases oxidative damage, long-term use of antioxidant blends can still have a positive effect. He also pointed out that memory loss is a major concern for older adults and is linked to diseases like Alzheimer’s. If the supplement can help mice keep their memory sharp, it might be helpful for humans too.
Another major issue for older people is sarcopenia—a condition where muscles become weaker over time. This can lead to limited movement and a higher risk of social isolation and other health problems.
The study showed that the antioxidant blend helped improve muscle strength in mice, which could mean it might also help humans stay active longer as they age.
However, there are many different antioxidant supplements on the market, and it’s not always clear which one to choose.
Professor Fukui advises that taking a mix of antioxidants may be more helpful than taking just one type, but he also warns that taking too much of some vitamins can be harmful. He recommends using multivitamins that are proven to be safe.
The researchers say more studies are needed to confirm how well these supplements work in people. Everyone’s body is different, and future research may help doctors create personalized supplement plans that are tailored to each individual’s needs. This could help prevent overdoses and improve the effectiveness of treatment.
In the long run, carefully chosen antioxidant supplements might play an important role in protecting our health as we grow older. They could help people stay sharp, strong, and independent for longer.
If you care about muscle, please read studies about factors that can cause muscle weakness in older people, and scientists find a way to reverse high blood sugar and muscle loss.
For more health information, please see recent studies about an easy, cheap way to maintain muscles, and results showing these vegetables essential for your muscle strength.
The study is published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
