A naturopath on why how well you age is as important as how long you live.
New Zealanders are increasingly prioritising staying strong, active and mentally sharp over simply living longer, an Auckland-based naturopath and wellness communicator says.
Jane McClurg says this concept of ‘healthspan’– the period of life spent in good health – is worth thinking about much earlier than many people realise.
“Lifespan only measures the total number of years a person lives, regardless of health,” she explains.
“Healthspan is about how well you live those years. Rather than waiting until something goes wrong later in life, more people are thinking about how they can support their health earlier and maintain the things that matter to them as they age.”
New Zealanders are living longer than they were, with average life expectancy now 80.9 years for men and 84.1 years for women*. But living longer does not necessarily equate to more years in good health.
McClurg says signs of ageing, such as the decline of muscle strength and cellular energy, do not suddenly show up at retirement age.
“Most people don’t lose their health overnight. They lose it gradually, muscle by muscle, cell by cell – and long before they realise it’s happening.”
Research shows the systems determining how well we age – cellular energy, metabolic health, muscle strength and cognitive function – begin declining long before many people expect.
It’s this biological reality that underpins a new range of nine targeted supplements supporting different aspects of healthy ageing released under the brand NEXAGE.
Launched in August, the supplements have been developed with science-backed ingredients and are designed to support cellular health, energy and healthy ageing for Kiwis wanting to look and feel their best as they age.
McClurg says the NEXAGE range is designed to support New Zealanders navigating the realities of modern life – those struggling to fit movement around busy schedules, or feeling confused by conflicting nutrition advice on social media.
“Being proactive with health and ageing is what led us to develop the NEXAGE range, and is a reflection of the growing interest among Kiwis in longevity science, preventative wellbeing and cellular health.”
Interest is being driven both by those who have delved into the science of longevity and are actively looking for products that match their knowledge level; and others who are just becoming more curious about healthy ageing, motivated by feeling and looking their best as they age.
Good Health opened almost 40 years ago in 1987, selling in New Zealand and exporting overseas, including to Australia, China, Vietnam and South Africa.
McClurg says the NEXAGE range, which is formulated and manufactured in New Zealand, is not a magic bullet and should instead be seen as supplementing a healthy diet and active lifestyle.
“People still need to do things like exercise and eat right,” she says.
All Good Health products have the internationally recognised Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification, which means they are manufactured in a controlled environment according to strict procedures, ensuring product quality, safety and consistency.
“Wellbeing and vitality are at the heart of everything we do, so we insist on using only the purest-quality ingredients to support good health,” says McClurg.
“We have formulated nine products to support cellular health alongside daily healthy foundations. We believe supplementation should be based on individual needs so people can pick and choose which suits them on an individual level.”
The Good Health NEXAGE range is available exclusively through Chemist Warehouse stores and online and includes:
- NEXAGE NMN (150mg and 500mg), supporting healthy ageing, brain and heart function.
- NEXAGE Cellular Energy NAD+ support for cellular energy and vitality.
- NEXAGE Advanced Liver Support+ to support liver function, detoxification and mitochondrial health
- NEXAGE Berberine Advanced+, supporting healthy blood sugar balance, metabolic health and healthy body composition
- NEXAGE Glow Skin Radiance, supporting defence against UV-related skin ageing.
- NEXAGE Advanced Deep Sleep to support a calm mind and relaxed nervous system and deep sleep
- NEXAGE Vascular Cardio Care to support cardiovascular health and healthy ageing
- NEXAGE Men’s Advanced Vitality+, A herbal and nutrient blend that supports testosterone, libido and sperm health.
Always read the label and use only as directed. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare professional. Vitamins and supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet. TAPS PP6246
Curious about where your healthspan starts? Explore the NEXAGE range, discover the science behind each formula, and book a free 15-minute consultation with a Good Health naturopath at nexage.goodhealth.co.nz