Abstract
Aging is an inevitable, multifaceted biological process characterized by the progressive decline of physiological functions, ultimately leading to increased susceptibility to chronic diseases and mortality. A combination of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors, including dietary habits, exposure to pollutants, and ultraviolet radiation, influence this natural phenomenon. The consequences of aging manifest as various health complications, such as cardiovascular diseases, Type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative disorders, malignancies, and visible signs like dermal dryness and wrinkles. An imbalance between the body's antioxidant defenses and the production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species leads to oxidative stress, which is a key part of the aging process. This imbalance induces cellular damage, apoptosis, and tissue dysfunction, accelerating age-related decline. Antioxidants, both endogenous and exogenous, play a pivotal role in mitigating oxidative stress by scavenging harmful free radicals. Micronutrients from food, such as certain vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, have gotten a lot of attention as exogenous antioxidants that may slow down or fix age-related problems. This review synthesizes findings from comprehensive literature searches on platforms such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, encompassing studies published between 2018 and mid-2024. It looks into the biochemical roles and cell mechanisms that these micronutrients use to fight oxidative stress and support healthy aging. Micronutrients that are high in antioxidants, like vitamins A, C, and E; essential trace minerals, like zinc, copper, and selenium; and phytochemicals, like flavonoids, curcumin, and resveratrol, can help restore the body's oxidative balance. But, even though they seem to have good effects, there isn't enough solid scientific evidence to support the use of these micronutrients as anti-aging agents on their own. This review talks about how eating antioxidant-rich foods every day might be a safer and more long-lasting way to help people live longer and lessen the effects of age-related problems.