Longevity pathway
Antioxidants
Molecules that neutralize reactive oxygen species. Dietary antioxidants from polyphenols, carotenoids, and vitamins support endogenous defense systems, though mechanisms often involve signaling rather than direct scavenging.
Source: Wikipedia
7 compounds on this pathway
Each compound is linked to its known food sources. Click through for citations and precursor chains.
Anthocyanins
Red-blue-purple flavonoid pigments in blueberries, blackberries, black raspberries, elderberries, and red cabbage. Studied in endothelial function and cognitive aging; rapidly metabolized so whole-food intake is preferred over extracts.
Astaxanthin
Red xanthophyll carotenoid produced by the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis and concentrated in salmon, krill, and shrimp that feed on it. Lipid-soluble antioxidant studied for mitochondrial function, skin UV protection, and exercise endurance.
EGCG
Epigallocatechin gallate. Catechin from green tea. Antioxidant, metabolic benefits.
Hesperidin
Flavanone glycoside abundant in the peel and pulp of oranges, lemons, and other citrus. Studied for microvascular function, endothelial health, and metabolic parameters. Metabolized to hesperetin, which reaches circulation.
Lycopene
Red tetraterpene carotenoid concentrated in cooked tomatoes, watermelon, and pink grapefruit. Studied in cardiovascular health and prostate cancer epidemiology. Bioavailability improves with fat and heat processing.
Melatonin
Indoleamine synthesized from tryptophan in the pineal gland and present in foods including pistachios, tart cherries, and eggs. Circadian regulator and potent mitochondrial antioxidant. Food-sourced doses are orders of magnitude lower than supplement doses.
Theaflavins
Reddish polyphenols formed during black tea oxidation from catechin precursors (including EGCG). Studied for cardiovascular markers and lipid metabolism. Unique to fermented/oxidized teas — not present in green tea.