Orthomolecular medicine: the therapeutic use of dietary supplements for anti-aging

Clin Interv Aging. 2006;1(3):261-5. doi: 10.2147/ciia.2006.1.3.261.

Abstract

Dietary supplements at high doses as part of medical therapy have been controversial, but the evidence suggests that they play a significant role in prevention and treatment of diseases as well as protection from accelerated aging that results from oxygen free-radical damage, inflammation, and glycation. This literature review examines several supplements that have documented roles in medical therapy, including vitamins C and E, coenzyme Q10, alpha-lipoic acid, chromium, L-carnitine, and quercetin. The evidence shows benefits in diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, congestive heart failure, age-related deterioration of brain function and vision, and immune function, as well as other age-related health problems.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging*
  • Diet Therapy*
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Orthomolecular Therapy / methods*
  • United States