Targeted Supplementation and Nutritional Strategies for Healthy Aging: A Review of Physiological and Molecular Benefits.

2026-06-03
Current nutrition reports 15(1)
- Jennifer A Kurtz
- K Michelle Singleton
- Ecaterina Vasenina
- Ralf Jäger
- Drew Gonzalez
- Antonella Schwarz
- Jonathan Howard
- Jose Antonio

PubMed: 42234350
DOI: 10.1007/s13668-026-00776-y

Study Design

Type: Review
Methods: Thirty-two human studies were identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.

Purpose of review

Aging is marked by progressive physiological decline driven by chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired metabolic and musculoskeletal resilience. As the global population ages, dietary supplements have gained attention as potential tools to support healthy longevity. This review summarizes current evidence on nutritional compounds that target aging-related pathways, focusing on interventions that influence mitochondrial health, cognitive performance, immune function, metabolic regulation, and maintenance of muscle mass in older adults. Thirty-two human studies were identified through PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science.

Recent findings

Evidence indicates that several targeted nutrients, including protein, probiotics, antioxidants, and emerging mitochondrial-support compounds, may contribute to healthy aging. Protein and collagen supplementation, particularly when paired with resistance training, consistently improve muscle mass and physical function. Antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine, and NAD⁺ precursors show potential benefits for mitochondrial efficiency, cellular stress responses, and cognitive performance; however, findings vary across populations and dosing strategies. Heterogeneity in study designs, supplement formulations, and biomarker endpoints underscores the need for individualized and context-specific application. A personalized, evidence-informed supplementation strategy integrated with exercise and balanced nutrition may help optimize physiological function in aging adults. Future research should refine dosing protocols, evaluate synergistic nutrient combinations, and clarify the roles of antioxidants and mitochondrial-targeted compounds across diverse older populations.

Research Insights

Collagen→Improved Muscle Mass
protein and collagen supplementation, particularly when paired with resistance training, consistently improve muscle mass and physical function
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Moderate
Collagen→Improved Physical Function
protein and collagen supplementation, particularly when paired with resistance training, consistently improve muscle mass and physical function
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Moderate
Glycine→Improved Cognitive Function
Antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine, and NAD⁺ precursors show potential benefits for mitochondrial efficiency, cellular stress responses, and cognitive performance; however, findings vary across populations and dosing strategies
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Small
Glycine→Improved Mitochondrial Efficiency
Antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine, and NAD⁺ precursors show potential benefits for mitochondrial efficiency, cellular stress responses, and cognitive performance; however, findings vary across populations and dosing strategies
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Small
N-Acetyl Cysteine→Improved Cognitive Function
Antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine, and NAD⁺ precursors show potential benefits for mitochondrial efficiency, cellular stress responses, and cognitive performance; however, findings vary across populations and dosing strategies
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Small
N-Acetyl Cysteine→Improved Mitochondrial Efficiency
Antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine, and NAD⁺ precursors show potential benefits for mitochondrial efficiency, cellular stress responses, and cognitive performance; however, findings vary across populations and dosing strategies
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Small
Protein→Improved Muscle Mass
protein and collagen supplementation, particularly when paired with resistance training, consistently improve muscle mass and physical function
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Moderate
Protein→Improved Physical Function
protein and collagen supplementation, particularly when paired with resistance training, consistently improve muscle mass and physical function
Effect
Beneficial
Effect size
Moderate