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Side Effects of Taking Anti-Aging Supplements After 50, Say Experts

Before taking that pill, you should know these potential benefits—and risks!

Anti-aging supplements are super-popular these days, especially among the 50+ crowd. From slowing the aging process to helping people live a life with a bit more vitality, these supplements make some lofty promises to slow down the effects of Father Time.

While you will be hard-pressed to find a supplement that can make a middle-aged person suddenly look as if they are about to start high school, you may find a concoction that can result in some positive side effects that are often welcomed, especially for folks that are "getting up there" in the age department.

If you decide to take anti-aging supplements after 50, here are some things you may experience. Then, be sure to read our list of the Best Supplements To Buy at Costco.

You may have healthier-looking skin.

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From collagen to vitamin C to many many others, there are a slew of ingredients found in anti-aging supplements that can help combat those pesky effects you may see as skin matures.

Taking in adequate collagen has been linked to improved skin elasticity and hydration. Plus, other nutrients like vitamins C, E, and A play important roles in skin health as well.

Along with taking proper precautions like wearing sunscreens and staying hydrated, popping certain anti-aging pills may actually help people appear a bit more youthful.

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You may experience less inflammation.

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Anti-aging supplements are oftentimes packed with anti-inflammatory ingredients like curcumin (turmeric), EGCG, and fish oil. While experiencing less inflammation may not be the end goal when taking anti-aging pills, it may be something that your body will be thankful to experience.

Because most older individuals develop elevated levels of blood inflammatory markers, combatting inflammation in your 50s is certainly a positive. Inflammation in older people is linked to an increased likelihood of many negative side effects, including an increased risk of early death.

You may have healthier joints.

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You may be taking turmeric supplements for general anti-aging benefits. But if you suffer from osteoarthritis, you may experience less pain in your joints. Since over 32 million Americans experience osteoarthritis, this is one effect that would likely be welcomed by many.

You may have a better memory.

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As we age, we may start to experience mild forgetfulness or a need to take a bit longer remembering things. Many anti-aging supplements contain ingredients like Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), vitamin E, and omega 3 fatty acids, which can help support brain health in a natural way.

Over time, taking these ingredients may help you combat the natural progression of experiencing the inevitable senior moments.

You may experience abdominal discomfort.

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Of course, taking a supplement does come with some potential downsides. For some people, taking supplements, especially when taken on an empty stomach, can result in abdominal discomforts like nausea or pain.

When you are taking an anti-aging supplement, it is best to make sure it is ok with your current medical plan by checking in with your health care provider before adding anything to your regimen.

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Lauren Manaker, MS, RDN, LD, CLEC, CPT
Lauren Manaker is an award-winning registered dietitian, book author, and recipe developer who has been in practice for almost 20 years. Read more about Lauren