The modern-day 'Fountain of Youth'

The legendary "Fountain of Youth," supposedly discovered in 1513 by Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León in Florida, has been debunked. It was believed that the waters from this spring gave one the gift of a youthful appearance.

Today, in St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Florida, a 15-acre Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park commemorates his arrival, complete with a fountain. But is it real?

There is no historical or archaeological evidence to support this claim. Nevertheless, this elusive search has continued to fascinate and inspire people to unlock the secrets to eternal youth.

Today, we have scientists in place of explorers. Experts claim there is some truth to the Fountain of Youth's presence in modern times — and it may not necessarily be a physical place, but a way of life that unlocks the code to delay the aging process.

Culled from the general opinion of health experts, let's take a look at some of the most fascinating approaches to maintaining our youthfulness.

Eating less

There has been extensive research into gene activity in humans and other creatures who have undergone fasting and calorie restriction. Scientists found an increase in the levels of anti-aging enzymes in those who ate less.

A study called Amar (Sanskrit for immortality), conducted by researcher Eyleen Jorgelina O'Rourke, and her team at UVA Health School of Medicine's Cell Biology Department, revealed that they might have stumbled on an anti-aging detox approach by reducing the harmful effects of the by-products of fat. It involves the activation of two enzymes that could reveal the mechanisms of good health and longevity.

While the studies are ongoing, it is encouraging to know that these enzymes are activated during the process of fasting. (Reference: blog.uvahealth.com)

So the 'Fountain of Youth's' first secret is unlocked: Do not overeat.

Antioxidants

Eat healthy as much as you can and have a nutrient-dense diet. Remember, however, that the human body cannot possibly derive the complete range of vitamins and minerals from consumed foods. This is the reason why supplementation is suggested.

The notable antioxidants are Vitamin C — found in leafy greens and citrus fruits; Vitamin E — leafy greens, nut oils, seeds, and avocados; Resveratrol — grapes and red wine; Green tea extract —tea leaves or powdered green tea; Co-enzyme Q10 — fatty fish, organ meats, olive oil, whole grains and legumes; Alpha lipoic acid — rice bran, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli and red meat; Berries — acai, blueberries, strawberries, blackberries; Natural enzymes — nuts like almonds, pistachios, hazelnuts and cashews; and Superoxide dismutase — enzymes found in cabbage, barley grass, wheat grass, peas, tomatoes and broccoli.

These antioxidants are now easily available in capsule supplements or juices, but the fastest way to load up on this is to go for an IV infusion of the popular Myers Cocktail, which contains Vitamin C, B-complex, calcium, magnesium, zinc and glutathione.

Need your NAD

NAD stands for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide. It is a natural molecule found in every living cell, essential for life itself, and the body produces this naturally.

With age, NAD production declines, which leads to age-related diseases. Thanks to science, though, NAD can now be administered intravenously to improve energy production, repair DNA, and regulate metabolism since NAD deficiency has been linked to diabetes and obesity.

If you're interested in this, be sure to ask your doctor first about NAD treatments.

Meanwhile, the best ways to stimulate NAD naturally are through exercise, limiting sun exposure, fasting and ketosis (follow a ketogenic diet by limiting carbohydrates and sweets, staying hydrated, and increasing good fats. Note: A ketogenic diet is not for everyone. Again, consult your physician first), and adopting healthy lifestyle practices.

All signs point to lifestyle

Whichever way you look at it, taking charge of your lifestyle is key to wellness. It is the simplest, most practical way to achieve one's health goals.

The wellness checklist bears repeating. You should:

• Eat and drink right

• Get sufficient sleep

• Manage stress levels

• Exercise

• Supplement

• Practice moderation

Remember, too, that wellness is not just about physical health. Your mental health is also important, so maintain a sense of equanimity. If you are unable to manage your emotions, seek therapy and counseling.

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Healthy juicing: This week's thirst quencher is the Potassium Booster. To make it, mix coconut water with blended bits of fresh coconut meat. Drink chilled, not iced.

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Beauty scrub: Try my recipe for Coco Sugar Polish to exfoliate. Mix two tablespoons of coconut sugar with one teaspoon of virgin coconut oil. Add a squeeze of dayap or lemon (optional). Massage lightly throughout the body, including the face and rinse immediately.

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Affirmation: "My light shines brightly from within."

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Love and light.