Is Your MENTAL Age Holding You Back? (Here’s How to Tell)

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted January 9, 2025

We’ve all heard that “age is just a number.”

But what if I told you how old you feel might be far more important than the number of candles on your birthday cake?

Recent studies have uncovered a fascinating link between our “subjective age”—how old we feel—and our overall well-being…

Picture this: two 65-year-olds walk into a room. One feels like they’re 55 while the other feels every bit of their 65 years (and MORE).

Which one is more likely to be healthier, happier, and more satisfied with life?

If you guessed the one who feels younger, you’re spot on. However, it turns out that feeling younger than your age has other real-world health benefits.

It’s associated with…

• Better mental health
• Improved physical health
• Sharper cognitive function
• Higher life satisfaction

Researchers followed nearly 3,600 people for a decade. They found that those folks who started out feeling older than their actual age AND reported symptoms of depression were more likely to develop physical health issues down the road.

In other words, your mental perception of your age could impact your future health.

Following are some easy-to-implement tips to help you feel younger and potentially ward off these issues…

• Adaptogenic Herbs: Herbs like Rhodiola rosea and Ashwagandha combat stress and fatigue helping you feel more energetic and youthful.
• Omega-3s: These fatty acids are potent anti-inflammatories in fish oil or algae supplements that support brain health and mood to ease depression symptoms.
• Ginkgo Biloba: This ancient herb can improve cognitive function and memory to help you stay sharp as you age.
• Turmeric: With its potent anti-inflammatory properties turmeric reduces overall inflammation and supports younger feeling joints.
• Green Tea: Antioxidant-rich green tea supports overall health and potentially slows the aging process at a cellular level

Remember, it’s crucial to address any underlying depression that might be affecting your subjective age.

Natural remedies like St. John’s Wort or 5-HTP may help. Just be sure to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you’re taking other medications.

But don’t stop with natural supplements. These other mood-boosting basics can help, too…

• Stay socially connected: Engage with friends, family, and your community.
• Keep learning: Take up a new hobby or skill to keep your mind sharp as you age.
• Stay active: Regular exercise boosts physical and mental health.
• Practice gratitude: Focus on the positive aspects of your life.

Remember, it’s never too late to start feeling younger. Incorporate these natural strategies into your routine to add life to your years AND years to your life.

P.S. Preserve your mobility with easy “Agile Aging” exercises.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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