Anti-Aging Supplements 2025: Trends and Innovations

The reality is simple: our cells no longer age solely as a result of time. They are put to the test by:

• the decline of essential nutrients in modern agricultural soils (up to –30% of magnesium and zinc since the 1950s [1]),
• permanent oxidative stress linked to pollution, lack of sleep and chronic stress [2],
• and the gradual decline of key molecules such as NAD⁺, a coenzyme essential for more than 400 metabolic reactions. Its role is central in mitochondrial energy production, DNA repair and the activation of longevity enzymes (sirtuins, PARPs). Studies show that its levels drop on average by nearly 50% between the ages of 40 and 60 [3]. This decline contributes to chronic fatigue, reduced cellular regeneration capacity and an increased risk of age-related diseases.

One of the major challenges of nutraceuticals—that is, supplements derived from natural nutrients with therapeutic effects—is their low bioavailability. In other words, a large portion of the active molecule does not reach the bloodstream or cells. For example, some polyphenols such as curcumin (from turmeric) are absorbed at less than 5% orally [4].

To get around this problem, researchers now use:

• Lipid nanoparticles: tiny “fat capsules” that envelop the active molecule and facilitate its passage into the body. They mimic the structure of our cell membranes, which improves their assimilation.
• Biomimetic liposomes: microscopic spheres composed of lipid layers that mimic our own cell membranes. They protect fragile molecules (such as NAD+ precursors) and deliver them directly to the heart of cells.

These innovations allow 2 to 3 times greater absorption for certain sensitive nutraceuticals, such as NAD+ precursors, compared to conventional formulations [5].

Concretely, longevity health platforms combine:

• blood biomarkers (vitamin D, zinc, homocysteine ​​levels, inflammation),
• the genetic profile (polymorphisms linked to sirtuins, methylation metabolism, FOXO3 genes associated with longevity),
• and data from the intestinal microbiome, a true “fingerprint” of our health.

Today, a simple, comprehensive blood test can reveal much more than blood sugar or cholesterol. Expanded panels can measure more than 120 biomarkers relevant to longevity. These markers cover:

• essential micronutrients (vitamins, minerals, amino acids),
• key hormones (cortisol, DHEA, thyroid hormones),
• inflammatory markers (high-sensitive CRP, cytokines),
• metabolic parameters (HbA1c, homocysteine, advanced lipids),
• and even indicators of oxidative stress and mitochondrial health.

Interpreted in light of an individual's genetics and epigenetic profile, these results allow for the personalization of both supplementation and lifestyle. This represents a shift from "general" medicine to precision medicine, where each molecule becomes a key adapted to the individual's unique biology.

In the United States, access to this type of panel is relatively widespread through private longevity laboratories. In Europe, oncology and cardiovascular prevention already include some of these tests, but their distribution remains uneven. In Canada, standard markers are covered by the public system, but advanced panels are still privately funded.

The most studied include:

• Fisetin (flavonoid present in strawberries and apples),
• Quercetin (onion, tea, capers),
• and Dasatinib (repurposed drug).

In mice, a senolytic protocol extended lifespan by 36% [8]. In humans, a pilot trial showed improved physical and vascular function [9].

Certain natural compounds can mimic the beneficial effects of calorie restriction—one of the most studied ways to extend lifespan.

• Resveratrol (polyphenol from red grapes),
• Pterostilbene (resveratrol analogue, better absorbed),
• Spermidine (polyamine present in wheat germ, soy, mushrooms).

In a cohort study, high spermidine consumption was associated with a 30% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular mortality [10].

Psychobiotics—probiotics that target the gut-brain axis—are emerging as a new anti-aging pathway.

• Strains such as Lactobacillus helveticus R0052 and Bifidobacterium longum R0175 have shown improved memory and reduced perceived stress in humans [13].
• Other strains strengthen the intestinal barrier, reducing “inflammaging” linked to the passage of inflammatory molecules into the blood.

This modulation of the microbiota represents a long-term neuroprotective strategy.

Biomimetic peptides are small chains of amino acids that mimic the body's natural repair signals.

• GHK-Cu stimulates collagen synthesis and healing.
• Matrixyl and Argireline promote skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles by modulating neuromuscular activity.

Clinical trials have shown that after 12 weeks, some peptides increased dermal density by 10 to 20% [14]. Thanks to gastro-resistant encapsulation technologies, their effectiveness is no longer limited to creams: they can now be administered orally.

Traditionally used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, adaptogens are being rediscovered in highly concentrated forms, validated by modern studies. They help the body better manage stress, strengthen cellular resilience, and support immunity.

Among the most studied:

• Ashwagandha KSM-66: Average reduction of cortisol by 27% in 8 weeks [15].
• Rhodiola rosea: improves resistance to fatigue and cognitive performance.
• Panax ginseng: immune support and increased endurance.
• Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): immunomodulator, used to reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
• Cordyceps militaris: Improves exercise tolerance and muscle oxygenation, with a documented increase in VO₂ max [16].
• Lion's Mane (Hericium erinaceus): stimulates the production of NGF (nerve growth factor), promoting memory and neuronal regeneration.

These adaptogens work by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, limiting the impact of chronic stress—one of the major accelerators of systemic aging. Their modern standardization allows these ancestral remedies to be transformed into regenerative medicine tools.

Chronobiology studies how our circadian rhythms influence the effectiveness of nutrients and molecules. The timing of a supplement can multiply its impact.

• The sleep hormone melatonin works best when taken 30 minutes before bedtime [17].
• NAD⁺ precursors such as NMN or NR show higher efficacy when consumed in the morning, when cellular energy demand is highest [18].
• Lipophilic antioxidants (such as astaxanthin) should be taken with a high-fat meal to maximize their absorption.

Adapting supplementation to the biology of the internal clock optimizes not only effectiveness, but also tolerance, by respecting the body's natural cycles.

Some nutraceuticals reach their full potential when combined intelligently:

• Vitamin C increases iron absorption by 67% [19].
• Piperine (black pepper) increases the bioavailability of curcumin by 20 times [20].
• The combination of resveratrol + NMN strengthens the activation of sirtuins, stimulating cellular repair mechanisms [21].

These synergies function like a molecular orchestration, where each molecule plays its note in the service of regeneration.

Methylation is a key biochemical reaction for gene expression, detoxification, and neurotransmitter production. It depends on a balanced intake of:

• Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin),
• Active folate (5-MTHF),
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal-5-phosphate),
• Betaine (TMG).

Excess niacin (B3), for example, can “consume” methyl groups and unbalance the methylation cycle [22]. Conversely, calibrated supplementation with active B12 + folates can support cognitive health and enhance the action of NAD⁺ precursors.

The term chelator refers to a molecule capable of binding to a mineral. This binding can have two opposing effects:

1. Improve absorption (beneficial effect). Some supplements use “chelated” forms of minerals, i.e., linked to amino acids to better pass through the intestinal barrier:

• Magnesium bisglycinate: bound to two glycine molecules, it is more bioavailable and better tolerated than magnesium oxide [23].
• Iron bisglycinate: bound to glycine, it is better absorbed and causes fewer digestive side effects than conventional iron salts [24].

2. Reduce absorption (negative effect). Certain natural compounds in foods bind to minerals and reduce their availability to the body:

• Phytates (whole grains, legumes) limit the absorption of zinc, iron and calcium.
• Oxalates (spinach, almonds, cocoa) bind to calcium and can form crystals, reducing its availability.

👉 Thus, understanding chelators is essential: the same biochemical principle can be used either to optimize supplementation or to explain why certain foods reduce the effectiveness of minerals that are nevertheless present in good quantities.

Beyond the feeling (energy, recovery, quality of sleep), objective biomarkers make it possible to evaluate the effectiveness:

• Mitochondrial function (lactate, ATP tests),
• Systemic inflammation (high-sensitive CRP, cytokines),
• Telomere length (marker of biological aging),
• Blood levels of NAD⁺.

Regular monitoring allows protocols to be adjusted based on measured results [26].

As with any active product, supplementation is not without risks. The main ones are:

• drug interactions (e.g. quercetin or resveratrol which may interact with certain treatments),
• overdoses of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K),
• or adverse effects linked to poor bioavailability (poorly absorbed iron causing digestive problems).

Pharmaceutical-grade supplementation, supervised by a healthcare professional, minimizes these risks [27].

No. They act as “biomolecular keys” that optimize functions already activated by lifestyle. A plant-rich diet, restful sleep, stress management, and physical activity remain the pillars of longevity. Supplementation complements, not replaces, these foundations [28].

Anti-aging in 2025 is just a starting point. Research is moving toward a vision where supplementation becomes precision medicine.

• Applied epigenetics: Certain nutrients could soon “turn on” or “turn off” genes linked to aging, reorienting our cells toward regeneration rather than decline.
• Artificial intelligence: algorithms are already beginning to analyze our biomarkers to recommend the most suitable supplementation for each individual profile.
• Innovative biosensors and tests: new tools, portable or non-invasive, will make it possible to continuously monitor key parameters such as NAD⁺, inflammation or mitochondrial health.

These innovations pave the way for earlier, more personalized and more effective prevention.