As the founder of 55plus CBD, I’ve spent years immersed in the intersection of aging and wellness. And while CBD continues to be a powerful tool in my holistic health toolbox, there’s a broader conversation taking shape—one that goes beyond cannabinoids. More and more, older adults are turning toward functional nutrition to support longevity, brain health, and overall vitality.
What Is Functional Nutrition?
Functional nutrition is about using food and targeted supplements as tools for healing and performance. It goes beyond diet trends or one-size-fits-all multivitamins. Instead, it treats the body as an interconnected system and personalizes nutrition to address the root causes of aging-related decline.
In the past, the wellness industry often overlooked older adults. But that’s changing. According to the 2024 Longevity Report by the Nutrition Business Journal, sales of supplements targeting brain health, immune support, and healthy aging are on the rise, with adults 55 and older representing the fastest-growing consumer group in these categories.
What’s behind this shift? It’s part education, part empowerment. Today’s older adults are more proactive about their health. They’re asking questions, reading labels, and seeking alternatives to pharmaceutical-heavy approaches. And they’re not just interested in longevity—they want quality of life.
The Key Players: Adaptogens, Nootropics, and Functional Foods
Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body manage stress. Chronic stress accelerates aging, contributes to inflammation, and affects everything from sleep to immunity. Ingredients like ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil have been shown to regulate cortisol and support a more balanced stress response. A 2023 article published by the Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute highlighted their potential for improving cognitive function and reducing fatigue in older populations.
Nootropics, or “smart supplements,” are also having a moment. They’re known for enhancing memory, focus, and cognitive resilience—crucial as we age. Ingredients like lion’s mane mushroom, L-theanine, and citicoline have strong emerging evidence behind them. In particular, lion’s mane has been studied for its role in promoting nerve growth factor (NGF), which supports brain cell regeneration. Phytotherapy Research published a study showing improved cognitive function in older adults taking lion’s mane over a 12-week period.
Then there are functional foods: whole or fortified foods that offer benefits beyond basic nutrition. Think turmeric lattes, probiotic-rich yogurts, and dark leafy greens high in polyphenols. These foods offer anti-inflammatory, gut-supportive, and antioxidant properties that work synergistically with supplements like CBD.
Real-World Impact & Trends in the 50+ Market
At 55plus CBD, we see firsthand how these approaches complement each other. Our customers often share how layering in things like magnesium-rich foods or adaptogenic teas helps stabilize mood, improve sleep, and ease joint pain. They’re not just looking for a quick fix—they’re building sustainable wellness routines.
Consumer trends align with this shift. Research from AARP shows that a significant number of adults aged 40 and older are prioritizing mental sharpness and brain health, with many turning to nutrition-based strategies to support long-term cognitive function and independence. These consumers aren’t just looking for quick fixes—they’re investing in quality solutions backed by science. Today’s older adults care deeply about transparency, trusted sourcing, and evidence-based recommendations.
Also Read: Last Week in Weed: April 14- April 21, 2025
The Responsibility of the Industry
It’s an exciting time in the wellness space. We’re witnessing a generational shift, from reactive to proactive. Instead of fragmented care we are exploring more and more integrated health strategies. Functional nutrition is just one of many different methods leading that charge.
But with opportunity comes responsibility. As brands and practitioners, we must cut through the noise. We need to validate claims, invest in research, and design products that truly meet the needs of the aging population. This means considering bioavailability, synergistic ingredients, and clear dosing guidelines when building any wellness brand.
CBD was my entry point into this world, but it’s just one part of a larger puzzle. Our bodies are complex, and aging well requires a holistic approach. Functional nutrition doesn’t promise eternal youth, but it does offer a more personalized path forward.
So, what’s next? I believe the future lies in education. When older adults are given the tools to understand their bodies, they make empowered choices. My goal with this column has always been to bridge that gap—to share what I’ve learned, spotlight emerging research, and celebrate the innovation happening in this space.
As always, I welcome your questions, your feedback, and your stories. Because in the end, this movement isn’t just about products. It’s about people. And together, we’re redefining what healthy aging looks like.
