Review of targeted supplements and nutrition for healthy aging in older adults
This review of 32 human studies reports that protein and collagen supplements, especially with resistance training, consistently improved muscle mass and physical function, while antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine and NAD⁺ precursors showed potential but varying benefits. [1]
Automatic summary · not editorially reviewed
The key findings
The review describes aging as progressive physiological decline driven by chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired metabolic and musculoskeletal resilience. [1]
Protein and collagen supplementation, particularly with resistance training, consistently improved muscle mass and physical function. [1]
Findings for antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine and NAD⁺ precursors varied across populations and dosing strategies. [1]
The source at a glance
- Study type / format
- Review of 32 human studies (abstract only)
- Population / context
- Older adults, as described in the review
- Summary based on
- Study abstract
- Original publication
- June 3, 2026
Aging pathways and supplement targets in older adults
The review describes aging as progressive physiological decline driven by chronic inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction and impaired metabolic and musculoskeletal resilience. As populations age, dietary supplements have drawn attention as possible tools for healthy longevity. The review summarizes evidence on nutritional compounds targeting aging-related pathways, focusing on mitochondrial health, cognitive performance, immune function, metabolic regulation and maintenance of muscle mass in older adults.
Supporting source [1]
Protein with resistance training; mixed results for other nutrients
Thirty-two human studies were identified through PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science. Protein and collagen supplementation, particularly when paired with resistance training, consistently improved muscle mass and physical function. Antioxidants, glycine, N-acetylcysteine and NAD⁺ precursors showed potential benefits for mitochondrial efficiency, cellular stress responses and cognitive performance, but findings varied across populations and dosing strategies.
Supporting source [1]
Heterogeneous designs and need for personalized strategies
The review states that heterogeneity in study designs, supplement formulations and biomarker endpoints underscores the need for individualized, context-specific application. It suggests that 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.
Supporting source [1]
How to interpret this
This is an abstract of a review; the full text was not reviewed. The abstract reports 32 human studies but gives no details on their designs, sample sizes, follow-up or effect sizes, and it does not quantify the reported benefits.
Based on the study abstract; the full paper, tables and supplementary data were not reviewed.
Source & supporting passages
Kurtz JA, Singleton KM, Vasenina E, Jäger R, Gonzalez D, Schwarz A, Howard J, Antonio J. · europepmc.org · June 3, 2026