Lifespan and Healthspan Extension by Nutraceuticals: An Overview

Abstract

Diet is a crucial lifestyle factor in the prevention of numerous chronic diseases associated with ageing. Several dietary bioactive compounds, particularly phytochemicals, have physiological properties that are beneficial for human health. Nutraceuticals can be considered as functional foods or bioactive ingredients within foods with potential health benefits beyond their basic nutritional value. In most experimental studies, yeast, worms and flies experienced lifespan extension when supplemented with nutraceuticals. However, the ability of nutraceuticals to extend healthspan, the disease-free period of life, is not sufficiently studied in humans, and it remains uncertain whether human healthspan can be promoted by increased intake of nutraceuticals. In this chapter, we discuss the main molecular targets of nutraceuticals and provide an overview of their effects on the lifespan of experimental model organisms. We also highlight the potential ability of nutraceuticals to extend the healthy years in humans, encouraging more in-depth and well-controlled clinical and epidemiological studies to better define the potential healthspan-promoting effects of these compounds.