An Interview with Dr. Jennifer Marion, ND
By Jason Sebeslav
Dr. Jennifer Marion, ND, is a general naturopathic practitioner specializing in anti-aging nutrition, weight loss, chronic care and pain management. Jennifer believes that providing her patients with the information they need to make healthy choices is one of the most important aspects of maintaining health and wellness.
Jason Sebeslav: Doctor Marion, we all hope to age well and enjoy a healthy retirement. Our “golden years.” So why do so many of us end up unwell? What’s actually going on in the aging body that contributes to common age-related health complaints like high blood pressure, joint pain and fatigue?
Jennifer Marion: As we age, our body becomes less efficient at making certain protective compounds. For example, glutathione is one of the most important antioxidants in the body, and deficiencies are found in nearly all patients with age-related health complaints and chronic illnesses. By age 40, we are making 30% less glutathione than in our youth, and by age 65, we’re making 50% less.
JS: How much do you think environmental factors contribute—things like air and water pollution, soil mineral depletion, and pesticides in foods?
JM: I certainly think these contribute. Food is the main source from which our body derives the nutrients required for daily life. But due to the depletion of minerals in the soil, our food no longer provides the same nutritional benefits as it once did. Exposure to pesticides and pollutants only increases our toxic burden and causes the body to work harder to rid itself of these harmful compounds, ultimately speeding the aging process.
JS: Which are some key vitamins and nutrients for slowing down the aging process?
JM: Glutathione is definitely at the top of my list. Those who live to be over 100 years old have been found to have higher blood glutathione levels than the general population. Secondly, the combination of vitamin C, proline and lysine is known to help prevent heart disease, promote collagen production (particularly important for maintaining healthy arteries) and support the immune system. Since the heart beats about 2.5 billion times in the average lifespan, it is important to provide the nutrients required to keep the circulatory system as healthy as possible.
JS: What are the some of the best food sources for these nutrients?
JM: Foods including garlic, onion, asparagus, broccoli, avocado, spinach, and unprocessed meats provide the three amino acids that the body needs to build glutathione. In order to get adequate lysine and proline, be sure to eat eggs, non-GMO tofu, spirulina, chicken, cod and smelt, for example. You can find vitamin C in bell peppers, kale, cabbage, oranges, guava, acerola and strawberries.
JS: Is nutrition enough for getting adequate amounts of these anti-aging properties?
JM: Unfortunately, no, due to soil mineral depletion, pesticide use, and lower levels of compounds like glutathione as we age. So I do recommend some supplementation on top of proper nutrition. The dose of lysine, proline and vitamin C required to prevent heart disease is high, and therefore easier to attain through supplementation.
JS: You advocate a product from Naka Professional called Pro Longevity. What are the benefits of taking this supplement?
JM: This product helps eliminate toxins, increase energy and exercise capacity, and slow age-related changes. It also benefits the cardiovascular system by preventing heart disease, and lowering blood pressure and homocysteine levels.
JS: What makes Pro Longevity different from other anti-aging supplements on the market?
JM: Pro Longevity is unique because it features a special form of glutathione which is protected throughout the digestive process, allowing it to act as a powerful antioxidant in the body. I recommend this product to adults of all ages. Athletes can benefit from this supplement since it promotes nitric oxide in the body, which increases exercise capacity. It also contains certain amino acids and minerals, making it a great pre-exercise drink. The nitric oxide-promoting ingredients in this product also help with blood pressure issues and erectile dysfunction.
JS: Are there cases where taking Pro Longevity is not advisable?
JM: There are some cases where taking Pro Longevity would not be advisable without being overseen by a practitioner. If you have liver or kidney disease or are taking medications, consult with your practitioner prior to taking this product.
JS: Is there a particular testimonial of Pro Longevity that stands out?
JM: A store owner in B.C. recently called to say she had a customer come back to tell her that she has never felt as good as she has since taking Pro Longevity.
JS: What other lifestyle tips can you share for aging gracefully?
JM: A healthy diet and good lifestyle habits are definitely my top two recommendations. Stress can wreak havoc on the body and speed up the aging process so be sure to manage stress effectively through daily exercise and making time for relaxation.
