The Science of Ageing Well: Delving Into & Understanding Promising Anti-Ageing Compounds

In clinic or more frequently in the pub, I'm frequently asked how to stay forever young – usually by patients clutching their anti-ageing creams with the desperation of someone who just found their first grey hair in places they didn't know could go grey! While I haven't discovered the fountain of youth (trust me, if I had, I'd be sipping from it daily with a fancy straw), scientific research has identified several promising compounds that may help slow the ageing process and improve quality of life as we grow older. No, none of them involve bathing in the blood of virgins or selling your soul – these are actually backed by science! 

Let's take a look at these fascinating, common anti-ageing compounds and understand how they might benefit our journey toward healthy ageing.

Senolytics: Clearing Cellular Debris

Fisetin has emerged as one of the most exciting compounds in longevity research. This flavonoid, found in strawberries and apples, functions as a senolytic agent—helping clear senescent ("zombie") cells that accumulate with age and drive inflammation. Research suggests fisetin may improve skin ageing markers and support cognitive function, potentially offering a multi-system approach to ageing.

Sirtuin Activators: The Longevity Genes

Resveratrol, the polyphenol famously found in red wine and grape skins, activates sirtuins—the proteins often referred to as "longevity genes." These enzymes regulate important cellular processes including DNA repair, inflammation, and metabolism. While resveratrol's bioavailability remains challenging, research suggests it may support cardiovascular health and offer neuroprotective benefits. So crack open a bottle!

Anti-Inflammatory Champions

Curcumin, turmeric's active compound, stands out for its remarkable anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation, we know is a key driver of ageing (sometimes called "inflammaging"), and curcumin helps mitigate this process. It works by inhibiting NF-κB, a protein complex that regulates inflammation and has been linked to numerous age-related diseases. Combining curcumin with black pepper (piperine) significantly enhances its absorption.

Aspirin, beyond its pain-relieving properties, shows intriguing effects on ageing. This cyclo-oxygenase inhibitor demonstrates anti-inflammatory action that may help modulate age-related inflammatory processes. Some research suggests low-dose aspirin might contribute to longevity, though this remains an area requiring careful risk-benefit analysis for each individual.

Cellular Energy Support

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is essential for mitochondrial function—our cellular power plants. Its levels naturally decline with age, potentially compromising energy production and increasing oxidative stress. Supplementation may support cardiovascular health and improve the appearance of aging skin by enhancing cellular energetics and providing antioxidant protection.

Plant-Based Protectors

Apigenin, a flavone found in parsley, chamomile, and celery, demonstrates promising anti-ageing effects, particularly for skin. Research suggests it may prevent photoageing and reduce the secretion of inflammatory factors from senescent cells (the senescence-associated secretory phenotype or SASP), potentially offering dual benefits for both appearance and systemic ageing.

Polyphenols represent a broad class of plant compounds with remarkable antioxidant properties. Found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and dark chocolate, these compounds help neutralise free radicals that damage cells over time. Different polyphenols offer unique benefits, with research suggesting they may protect against cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and skin ageing.

Crocin, derived from saffron, is gaining attention for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates potential benefits for cognitive function, cardiovascular protection, and mood enhancement—all significant factors in healthy ageing. As an added benefit, crocin appears to support eye health, addressing the common age-related decline in vision. 

Structural Support

Collagen, the body's most abundant protein, provides structure to skin, bones, muscles, and connective tissues. Production decreases dramatically with age, contributing to wrinkles and joint problems. Oral collagen peptides show promise for improving skin elasticity and hydration from within.

Hormonal Approaches

Growth Hormone (GH) secretion naturally declines with age in a process called somatopause. This decline correlates with decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, reduced energy, and impaired recovery. While GH therapy remains controversial due to potential side effects, approaches that naturally support GH production—such as intermittent fasting, intense exercise, and quality sleep—may offer safer alternatives for optimising this important hormone.

Beyond These Ten: Other Noteworthy Compounds

Several additional compounds deserve mention for their anti-ageing potential:

Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) and Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) serve as precursors to NAD+, a coenzyme that declines with age and is crucial for cellular energy production and DNA repair. Research suggests these compounds may support metabolic health and potentially extend lifespan.

Spermidine, found in foods like wheat germ, mushrooms, and aged cheese, induces autophagy—the cellular "recycling" process that clears damaged components. Studies suggest it may support cardiovascular health, cognitive function, and potentially longevity.

Rapamycin, originally discovered as an anti-fungal compound from Easter Island soil, inhibits mTOR signaling—a pathway involved in cellular growth and metabolism. While primarily used as an immunosuppressant drug, research suggests rapamycin may have significant anti-ageing effects, though careful medical supervision is essential due to potential side effects.

Metformin, a diabetes medication, has shown intriguing anti-ageing potential through its effects on inflammation, oxidative damage, and cellular metabolism. The TAME (Targeting Ageing with Metformin) trial represents the first major study testing a drug specifically for its effects on human ageing rather than a specific disease.

The Integrated Approach to Anti-Ageing

While these compounds show promise individually, the science of ageing increasingly points toward an integrated approach. The synergistic effects of combining appropriate compounds with foundational lifestyle practices—quality sleep, stress management, physical activity, and nutrition—likely offer the most powerful strategy for healthy ageing.

It's also crucial to remember that individual responses vary significantly based on genetics, existing health conditions, and lifestyle factors. What works brilliantly for one person may prove less effective for another, emphasising the importance of personalised approaches to anti-ageing interventions.

The Future of Anti-Ageing Science

As research advances, we're likely to discover additional compounds and develop more sophisticated strategies for extending not just lifespan but "healthspan"—the period of life spent in good health. The goal isn't merely adding years to life but adding life to years.

#DrVixTakeaways

✅ Senolytics like fisetin clear "zombie cells" that drive ageing – find them in strawberries, and apples a tasty anti-ageing boost

✅ Inflammation drives ageing: curcumin (turmeric) + black pepper can be 2000% more effective at fighting "inflammaging" than turmeric alone #interesting fact

✅ After 25, your collagen production drops dramatically – that's why strategic supplementation becomes increasingly important

✅ CoQ10 powers your cellular batteries, but levels naturally decline with age – supplements may help restore your energy production

✅ The magic isn't in one compound but in a personalised approach combining specific compounds with sleep, stress management and nutrition

Ready to Design Your Personal Anti-Ageing Protocol?

Ageing is inevitable, but how you age isn't. I work with patients to create personalised supplement protocols based on individual health history, genetic factors, and wellness goals.

Connect with me here on LinkedIn to discuss how these anti-ageing compounds might be incorporated into your personalised wellness strategy. I offer both virtual consultations and in-person appointments at The Cosmetic Skin Clinic for those wanting expert guidance on evidence-based approaches to ageing well.

Remember – ageing is a privilege, but feeling older than you should be is optional! What anti-ageing approaches have you found most effective in your experience? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.