Many people find it far easier to pop a handful of vitamins to achieve a slow aging process. While doctors will warn that the Food and Drug Administration does not oversee the production of supplements in the United States, there are reputable producers of nutritional supplements and many good products on the market.

By all means, check to make sure that your supplements will not react adversely with any prescription medication you are taking, but do not rule out supplements as a source for your antioxidants and other nutrients. Find a reputable health food store with an on-staff nutritional consultant and discuss the best way to integrate a better diet and supplements into your daily routine.

If the consultant recommends a substance you’ve never heard of, look it up. The Internet is rich in sources of information on various vitamins, herbs, and minerals. You will find both rave reviews from adherents as well as horror stories from cautionary voices. Use all the information you can find to make the best judgment about what fits best with your overall lifestyle and level of activity.

Any Special Hints for Vegetarians?

To a large extent vegetarians are in a better position than most to get their daily share of antioxidants but since they will not eat the recommended meats or in some instances use the suggested oils, they do need to take some special measures when trying to balance their diets to optimize anti-aging measures.

Berries are especially rich in antioxidants with blueberries at the top of the list followed by cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries. More beans should be worked into the diet and artichokes are an excellent source of antioxidants.

Live Healthy, Live Long

Whether or not there is a link between antioxidants and aging, there are general tips to living healthy and living long. Eat a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables and maintain a healthy weight by exercising daily. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with sun blocking products. Don’t smoke and try not to be around second-hand smoke.

Seek medical assistance when you are hurt or injured and submit to routine screenings for cancer and heart disease. Finally, maintain close ties to your friends and family. Good health isn’t just about maintaining the mechanical functions of the body. Emotional health is inextricably linked with physical health and all of the keys to long life aren’t just contained in anti-aging foods. A good and loving support system is one of the most important elements of an anti-aging “diet.”