News
Unlocking the Secrets of Dr. David Sinclair's Anti-Aging Regimen
In the realm of anti-aging supplements, few have garnered as much attention in recent years as Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN). This unassuming precursor to the vital pro-longevity molecule Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) has been the subject of numerous human trials over the past three years, all with one common and reassuring theme - safety. Let's delve into the extensive research that confirms NMN's safety profile. NMN's Safety: A Pillar of Confidence A cornerstone of NMN's journey as a potential anti-aging supplement is its impeccable safety record. Extensive human trials have been conducted to ascertain the safety of NMN, and the results have been resoundingly positive. The very first study, conducted at Keio University in Japan in 2016, set the tone. Male participants consumed varying doses of NMN, and for five subsequent hours, researchers meticulously monitored them. The outcome? No harmful effects, changes in blood pressure, heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, or body temperature were observed. This initial study unequivocally established that NMN, at doses of up to 500 mg, is safe and well-tolerated. Since that groundbreaking study, seven additional human trials, each testing safety parameters with varying NMN doses, have been conducted. In the most robust of these trials, conducted at Harvard, participants were administered a whopping 1,000 mg of NMN twice daily for 14 days. The result? No adverse side effects, further cementing NMN's safety credentials. Crucially, these studies have also dispelled concerns regarding NMN's potential to induce cancer, putting to rest any lingering doubts. NMN's Remarkable Impact on Aging While the safety of NMN has been unequivocally established, its real allure lies in its potential to combat the aging process. Recent human trials have begun to unlock the vast potential of NMN in this regard, with a specific focus on age-related physical decline. Aging and NAD+ Levels As individuals age, their NAD+ levels naturally decline. Researchers have long hypothesized that increasing NAD+ levels with precursors like NMN could protect against age-related organ deterioration. This hypothesis has spurred a surge in NMN supplementation, with the global NMN market projected to reach a staggering $385.7 million by 2027. NMN's Impact on Physical Performance Human trials have started to yield promising results regarding NMN's impact on physical performance in aging adults. Igarashi and colleagues found that NMN improved muscle motility, walking speed, grip strength, and the frequency of standing and sitting down in aged individuals. Liao and colleagues reported significant improvements in aerobic capacity among trained runners supplemented with NMN, as measured by blood oxygen consumption. Another study demonstrated that NMN enhanced walking endurance in middle-aged and older adults. These findings suggest that NMN has the potential to enhance exercise capacity, a crucial factor in combating age-related physical decline. Metabolic Benefits of NMN NMN's potential extends beyond physical performance. In a study involving postmenopausal women who were overweight or obese, NMN was found to increase muscle insulin sensitivity by about 25% and improve insulin signaling. These results imply that NMN can offer metabolic benefits, particularly for individuals with prediabetes. NMN and Hearing Age-related hearing loss is a common concern among the elderly. Research by Igarashi and colleagues indicated that NMN supplementation could improve hearing capabilities in older men, offering a glimmer of hope for those grappling with this age-related decline. Telomere Lengthening: A Molecular Anti-Aging Effect Telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes, shorten with age, serving as a biological marker of aging. A study by Niu and colleagues found that daily supplementation with 300 mg of NMN nearly doubled telomere lengths in blood cells within just 90 days of treatment. This remarkable result suggests that NMN may exert an anti-aging effect at the molecular level. Unanswered Questions and Future Prospects While human trials with NMN have showcased its potential in improving physical function, metabolism, telomere length, and even hearing capabilities during aging, crucial questions remain unanswered. The limited duration of these studies, with none lasting more than three months, raises concerns about whether NMN can provide its full range of benefits in the long term. Additionally, the question of whether NMN confers the same benefits on multiple organ systems in humans as it does in rodents remains an area of intrigue and uncertainty. The FDA's recent decision to exclude the sale of NMN as a supplement has ignited debates about the molecule's potential. While it may not pose safety risks, the decision raises questions about the motives behind suppressing access to NMN. The fact that NMN is under investigation as a new drug further underscores its potential as an anti-aging molecule, leaving many hopeful for its future. In conclusion, NMN has emerged as a fascinating candidate in the quest for anti-aging solutions. Extensive research has underscored its safety and revealed its potential to combat age-related physical decline, metabolic issues, and even hearing loss. However, many mysteries surrounding its effects on various organ systems in humans and its long-term implications remain unsolved. As NMN continues to captivate the scientific community and consumers alike, ongoing human trials will provide the answers we seek, shedding light on this promising anti-aging supplement's true potential.
Learn more
Inflammaging and Your Body's Largest Organ
The real question is: "Mirror, Mirror on the Wall, Who's the Most Inflamed of Them All?" Imagine your skin is like a magic mirror from Snow White! But instead of just showing you how you look, it's telling a story about what's happening inside your body. In this story, there's a sneaky villain called "inflammaging". It's not as dramatic as an evil queen, but it can cause trouble as we get older. Inflammaging is: A type of low-level inflammation Something that happens naturally as we age Affects our whole body, including our skin Here's the key part: Your skin doesn't just show the effects of inflammaging - it actually plays a role in your overall health. It's like the mirror in the fairy tale came to life and started influencing the story! By taking care of your skin, you might be helping your whole body stay healthier as you age. It's a simple idea, but it could make a big difference in how you look and feel over time. What's the Deal with Skin Inflammaging? As we get older, our skin changes in a few ways: We get "Zombie" cells: Old cells that should die but stick around and cause trouble. Energy problems: The parts of our cells that make energy (mitochondria) start to slow down. Sun damage: Too much sun exposure over the years can hurt our skin. These changes can make our skin look older and less healthy. The Skin-Body Connection "As above, so below" isn't just for mystics anymore. Scientists are quickly discovering that your skin's health could be driving your overall health and aging process. Think about dry, cracked hands in winter. It's not just uncomfortable - it might actually be bad for your overall health. When your skin is damaged, it can cause: 1. Inflammation throughout your body 2. Weakening of muscles and bones 3. Possible effects on brain health As your skin gets unhealthy, it might make the rest of your body age faster too. Your skin doesn't just show signs of aging - it might actually be causing some of it. Taking care of your skin might be more important than we thought. It's not just about looking good - it could help you stay healthier overall as you get older. Next time you put on moisturizer or sunscreen, you're not just helping your skin. You might be helping your whole body stay healthier. How to Fight Inflammaging Here are some simple steps to fight inflammaging: 1. Sun's Out, Guns Out: Always protect yourself from the sun with the right SPF. 2. Eat Like You Love Yourself: "Consume more veggies, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and probiotic foods." Think of your plate as a superhero team - each food group has its own power to fight inflammaging. 3. Move It or Lose It: Exercise isn't just for influencers. So,spend at least 20 mins on quality exercise. 4. Beauty Sleep Isn't a Myth: Sleeping Beauty had the right idea. Quality sleep is your skin's time to regenerate. 5. Simplify Your Skincare: Channel your inner Marie Kondo and keep only what brings joy (and scientific backing) to your skin. 6. Avoid the Dark Side: Cigarette smoke and pollution are the Darth Vaders of skin health. Don't join the dark side! New Science for Better Skin In addition to a healthy lifestyle, scientists have discovered something called Urolithin A, which may help: Renew skin cells Reduce wrinkles Protect against sun damage Boost collagen (which keeps skin firm) The Big Picture Taking care of your skin isn't just about looking good - it's about staying healthy overall. By following these simple steps and using effective skincare products, you can help keep both your skin and your body in good shape as you age. Remember, it's never too late to start taking better care of your skin. Every little bit helps!
Learn more
You are unique: Your Supplement Plan Should Be Unique Too!
Almost everyone I speak to these days tells me the same thing, like it is a rehearsed answer! “I’m taking Vitamin D, B and C supplements.” While these supplements have proven to have long-term benefits, a one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition and supplementation is not only inadequate, but can also be detrimental. If you take your health and longevity seriously and are not driven solely but health trends, this concept may not be foreign to you. But, for the rest of the world this may come as a shocker. Good nutrition is the foundation for good health. About 70% of your overall health comes from what you put into your body… i.e.… what you eat and drink! Supplementation can only add to that, yet people spend thousands of Rupees on generic over-the-counter supplements every year! Innovations in personalized supplementation aim to address this gap. For instance, a popular company focused on creating individualized supplement plans based on comprehensive biomarker data and lifestyle factors has demonstrated notable success. This company initially catered to a niche market with high-cost services but has since expanded to a global audience with more accessible options. They offer two main products: a premium service that uses blood biomarker data for highly tailored supplement plans and a more affordable option based on AI and user questionnaires. Each formulation is unique and continuously updated to reflect changes in an individual's health status and goals. How to Mimic Personalized Supplementation in Your Daily Routine Now, a key question that you as an Indian may have is, how can I as an Indian with a limited budget personalize my supplementation plan? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with a step-by-step approach to solve this! You can adopt a personalized approach to supplementation and wellness by incorporating the following steps into your daily routine: Get Comprehensive Health Assessments: Blood Tests: Start with a thorough blood test to assess key biomarkers such as vitamin levels, mineral deficiencies, and other crucial health indicators. Many clinics and health services offer these tests, which can provide insights into specific nutrient imbalances. Health Questionnaires: You can take authentic online questionnaires to gather information about your lifestyle, diet, exercise habits, and health goals. Analyze Your Results: Consult Health Professionals: Review your test results with a healthcare provider or a nutritionist who can interpret the data and identify any deficiencies or imbalances. They can provide guidance on what specific nutrients you may need to adjust. Identify Patterns: Look for patterns in your health data that might indicate areas of concern. For instance, low levels of certain vitamins could be linked to fatigue or immune system issues. Personalize Your Supplement Regimen: Tailor Your Supplements: Based on your analysis, select supplements that address your specific deficiencies. Choose products that match your unique needs rather than relying on generic, one-size-fits-all supplements Consider Lifestyle Factors: Factor in your age, activity level, and health goals when choosing supplements. For instance, athletes may need higher levels of certain nutrients compared to sedentary individuals. Monitor and Adjust: Regular Follow-Ups: Schedule regular follow-up tests and consultations to monitor changes in your health and adjust your supplement regimen as needed. This ensures that your supplementation remains aligned with your evolving health needs. Track Your Progress: Keep a log of any changes in your health, such as improvements in energy levels, sleep quality, or overall well-being, to assess the effectiveness of your personalized regimen. Integrate Holistic Wellness Practices: Exercise and Diet: Complement your personalized supplementation with a balanced diet and regular exercise. These foundational practices are essential for optimal health and should work in tandem with your supplementation strategy. Sleep and Stress Management: Ensure adequate sleep and manage stress, as these factors significantly impact overall health and can influence how effectively your body utilizes nutrients. You don’t need to spend thousands of Rupees on these personalized supplementation plans, all you need to do is follow these steps to create your very own personalized supplementation and wellness plan, similar to the tailored solutions offered by specialized services. This method not only helps address specific health needs but also supports long-term health and vitality.
Learn more
Discovering the Magic of Youthful Skin and Hair: Your Exciting Journey into the World of NMN
Greetings, my intelligent and determined skincare enthusiasts! Get ready for an exhilarating adventure into the world of skincare, haircare, and the pursuit of eternal youth. Today, I have something truly special to share with you. We're going to uncover the secrets behind reversing hair graying, slowing down skin aging, and delve into the captivating realm of longevity and anti-aging. So, buckle up, and let's embark on this amazing journey together! Chapter 1: The Enigma of Hair Graying Imagine this: you're going about your daily life, and suddenly, you notice those first strands of gray hair. It can be quite puzzling, right? Well, let me tell you about the fascinating world of melanin—the pigment responsible for the color of our hair and skin. Melanin is produced by tiny cells called melanocytes, nestled at the base of our hair. Sometimes, temporary hair loss caused by stress or certain conditions can lead to gray hair. But here's the exciting part: when the stress fades away, the color can potentially return, depending on the number of melanocytes present at that moment. Chapter 2: The Intricacies of Aging Now, let's dive into the biology of aging. It's a captivating subject, trust me! We all have these incredible powerhouses in our cells called mitochondria. They're responsible for generating energy and play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cells. But as we age, the production of mitochondria gradually declines. And unfortunately, this decline affects our precious melanocyte population, contributing to hair graying. But wait, there's more! Let's talk about telomeres—the protective caps at the ends of our chromosomes. They're like the shoelaces keeping everything intact. As our cells divide, telomeres naturally shorten. Once they reach their limit, cells stop dividing and become what scientists call "senescent cells." Not exactly great news for maintaining youthful hair, right? Chapter 3: Unlocking the Power of NAD+ Now, let's introduce a remarkable molecule called nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). It's like the master regulator of our metabolism, responsible for fueling over 300 enzymatic reactions in our bodies. This includes crucial processes like mitochondrial production and DNA repair. And here's the exciting part: by boosting NAD+ levels using compounds like NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide), we can potentially replenish our cells' energy and even lengthen those telomeres we just talked about! Chapter 4: Stories of Gray Hair Reversal and Promising Discoveries While scientific studies on the direct effects of NMN in reversing gray hair are still emerging, the stories and experiences of individuals who have incorporated NMN into their lives are truly captivating. Imagine people reporting a reduction in their gray hair after boosting their NAD levels with NMN. It's like witnessing a magical transformation! Although more scientific research is needed, these early results are undeniably promising and ignite the flames of curiosity within our brilliant minds. Chapter 5: Unveiling the Secrets to Radiant Skin Let's shift our focus to another vital aspect of our quest for eternal youth: skincare! In a world filled with endless creams and lotions, we sometimes forget that true beauty radiates from within. Our skin endures the constant barrage of UV rays, chemicals, and oxidative stress as we age. And as collagen and elastin—our skin's dynamic duo—decrease, those pesky wrinkles begin to appear. Here's where our intelligence comes into play. We understand that a holistic approach is key. It's not just about applying external creams; it's about nourishing our skin from the inside out. That's where NMN shines! By boosting NAD levels, NMN activates collagen production internally, giving our skin a natural and robust boost. Embrace Your Brilliance on the Path to Youthful Skin and Hair! As we reach the end of our extraordinary journey into the world of NMN, it becomes evident that you, my smart and ambitious friends, have the potential to do remarkable things. You possess the intellect to excel, even when time seems scarce. So, as we venture forward into the realm of anti-aging and longevity, let's keep a watchful eye on the exciting developments surrounding NMN. Who knows? We may soon unravel the secrets of reversing hair graying, slowing down skin aging, and ultimately embracing a more youthful version of ourselves. Remember, the fountain of youth may still be elusive, but with the power of science and a dash of NMN, we're one step closer to unlocking its secrets! Stay curious, stay radiant, and until next time!
Learn more
Indian Foods That Contain NMN
In India, many people are looking to enhance their NMN levels through dietary choices in order to lead healthier and longer lives. The remarkable benefits associated with NMN have piqued their interest, including increased energy, improved focus, enhanced fitness levels, weight loss, and the potential for extended life expectancy. However, supplements of NMN in India can be expensive, with prices reaching 1500 INR or more per bottle. As a result, individuals are considering whether incorporating NMN-rich foods into their diets can produce similar effects, providing a more affordable approach. NMN is naturally present in all living things and can be obtained from specific whole foods. NMN, a ribonucleotide and consists of a nicotinamide group, a ribose group, and a phosphate group. It serves as a direct precursor to nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+), a vital molecule that plays a crucial role in supporting essential bodily functions such as cellular energy, DNA repair, and metabolic processes. Enzymes in mitochondria and sirtuins rely on NAD+ to maintain the proper functioning of these systems. With age, NAD+ levels decline, causing these systems to slow down and eventually cease functioning. This age-related NAD+ depletion occurs because our bodies struggle to produce enough NAD+ while simultaneously increasing their consumption to repair the wear and tear associated with aging. Boosting NAD+ levels in the body has the potential to slow down the aging process. While clinical evidence suggests that NMN supplements can promote the biosynthesis of NAD+ and combat the effects of aging. Taking supplements of NMN in India does not require a leap of faith due to their substantial benefits and efficacy, however, the costs can be prohibitive. Therefore, individuals are wondering if modifying their diet alone can yield similar results. Thankfully, NMN-rich foods can be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables that are part of the Indian dietFoods such as cabbage, cucumbers, avocados, broccoli, and edamame can give NMN levels a modest boost when incorporated into daily meals. However, it's important to note that the NMN levels in supplements are significantly higher than what can be obtained from a natural diet alone. Relying solely on a diet may not be sufficient to replicate the effects of NMN supplements To bridge the gap caused by age-related NAD+ decline, which often begins by the age of 40 with levels already reduced by half, relying solely on a diet may not be sufficient to replicate the effects of supplements. Consuming the right NMN-rich foods can still have a cumulative impact on NAD+ levels, slowing down the rate of decline and providing some minimal anti-aging effects. Among the NMN-rich foods, a 2016 study reported the following NMN levels: Cucumbers and cabbage: 0.25-1.88mg of NMN per 100g Fruits like avocado and tomato: 0.26 to 1.60mg per 100g Raw beef, meat, and shrimp: Approximately 0.06 to 0.42mg per 100g To clarify, to get a 500mg daily dose of NMN, you would need to eat a minimum of 26Kgs of Cucumber & cabbage 31 Kgs of avocado or tomato 119 Kgs of raw beef, meat, and shrimp Incorporating these foods into the diet can certainly boost NAD+ levels and help combat the effects of aging. However, it's essential to remember that maintaining a healthy diet provides numerous additional benefits that contribute to overall well-being and promote a youthful appearance. For a more significant impact, combining a balanced diet with regular exercise is recommended. This combination not only enhances NAD+ levels but also improves overall health and reduces vulnerability to various health risks that NMN aims to address. When considering NMN supplements, it's crucial to exercise caution. Most supplements contain between 100mg to 300mg of NMN per tablet, providing a significantly higher NMN intake than what can be achieved through diet alone. However, it's important to be aware that not all supplements of NMN in India are of equal quality. Due to the high cost, counterfeit or low-quality products may be present in the market, which could contain additional ingredients that are potentially harmful to health. If opting for the supplement route, it is wise to choose products with a proven track record and demonstrated effectiveness through independent studies. Nevertheless, maintaining a healthy diet with NMN-rich foods, particularly cabbage and cucumber which are commonly found in Indian cuisine, can help replenish NMN levels. For a substantial boost, combining a regular course of NMN supplements with a nutritious diet may be an effective approach, considering Indian sensibilities and preferences.
Learn more
Amitabh Bachchan's Secret to Staying Fit at 81
Amitabh Bachchan, the titan of Indian cinema, isn't just a legend on the silver screen; he's also a beacon of inspiration when it comes to health, fitness and now longevity. Let's take a deeper dive into the meticulous habits that contribute to his enduring vitality—covering not just his workout routines but also his sleep patterns and dietary choices. Fitness Habits: 1. Gym Commitment: At the age of 80, Bachchan maintains an unwavering commitment to his gym routine. The gym isn't just a place for him; it's a sanctuary where he hones his physical strength and resilience. The discipline to never miss a session underscores his dedication to maintaining peak fitness. 2. Daily Walk for Circulation: In addition to his gym exploits, Bachchan ensures he includes a 20-minute walk in his daily routine. This isn't just about getting steps in; it's a deliberate choice to improve blood circulation—a fundamental aspect of overall well-being. 3. Cardio and Yoga Days: Variety is the spice of Bachchan's fitness routine. On times when the gym isn't in the cards, he turns to cardio exercises and yoga. The deliberate inclusion of these practices ensures a holistic approach to fitness, targeting strength, endurance and flexibility. Are you looking for a customized workout plan? Find the top personal trainers in the country down below: Sleep Routine: 1. Sufficient Sleep: Recognizing the importance of rest, Bachchan makes it a point to secure 8 to 9 hours of sleep every night. This substantial amount of sleep isn't just a luxury; it's a crucial component of his fitness regimen, specifically considering his age. 2. Relaxation Through Breathing Exercises: To unwind after the day's demands, Bachchan incorporates breathing exercises - pranayama, into his routine. Beyond physical fitness, this practice enhances the connection between his mental and overall well-being. Dietary Habits: 1. Simple Breakfast: Bachchan's breakfast is simple yet nourishing - scrambled eggs without spices, with a glass of milk. This uncomplicated start to the day sets the tone of his day. 2. Post-Breakfast Snacks: Between meals, Bachchan opts for snacks that are not only delicious but are also super-healthy. Amla juice, coconut water, tulsi leaves, and almonds make their way into his post-breakfast repository, for a steady influx of essential nutrients. 3. Wholesome Lunch: His lunch reflects a commitment to a balanced and vegetarian diet. Daal, sabzi, and chapati fuel his energy for the day. 4. Light Dinner Choices: Big B keeps his dinner light and digestible. A comforting soup and a glass of milk take centre stage, adhering to avoiding heavy, solid foods at night. Dietary Preferences: 1. Abstains Spice and Oil: His dietary choice is to keep things balanced. He avoids anything excessively spicy and oily, he embraces a diet that prioritizes nutrition. 2. Liquids: Liquids play a pivotal role in his dietary landscape. Whether it's the classic goodness of milk or the refreshing burst of fresh juices, liquids take a prime spot in his approach to nutrition. Dietary Restrictions: 1. Rice-Free: A notable dietary restriction in Bachchan's regimen is the absence of rice. This decision aligns with his pursuit of a diet that he believes contributes to overall health. 2. No Solids at Night: Bachchan adheres to the principle of avoiding solid foods at night. This practice aligns with the broader understanding that lighter evening meals promote better digestion and quality sleep. 3. No Alcohol or Caffeine: In a demonstration of remarkable discipline, Bachchan has bid adieu to alcohol. Furthermore, he abstains from coffee, tea, and any caffeinated beverages—an uncommon choice in a world that often relies on these stimulants for a pick-me-up. Amitabh Bachchan's approach to fitness and lifestyle isn't just a routine; it's a philosophy. It's about balancing dedication with simplicity and understanding the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being. If you’re someone on the older side, following the Shahenshah’s routine could be a great value to you. But before making significant alterations to your diet or exercise regimen, it's advisable to consult with healthcare professionals for guidance.
Learn more
Can Semaglutide and Ozempic Help You Lose Weight and Slow Down Aging Too?
The quest for immortality and the fountain of youth has been on for centuries. And scientists may have stumbled across an ally in this search: weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy. Known for their effectiveness in shedding pounds, these medications—specifically semaglutide—may offer benefits that stretch far beyond weight management. A new study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), suggests that semaglutide could potentially protect against a wide range of health threats, even slowing down the aging process itself. It’s not every day that you hear a cardiologist hinting at the possibility of a drug delaying aging. Yet, Yale University professor Dr. Harlan Krumholz, a leader in cardiology, suggests that’s exactly what semaglutide might do. “It wouldn’t surprise me that improving people’s health in this way actually slows down the aging process,” Krumholz stated. More Than Just Weight Loss: The Unexpected Benefits Semaglutide has already been celebrated for its ability to help people lose weight and manage diabetes, but new research indicates it could be doing much more. The study found that semaglutide dramatically reduced cardiovascular deaths and, surprisingly, non-cardiovascular deaths as well—particularly those caused by infection. The researchers linked this reduction in non-cardiovascular deaths to the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, infections surged, allowing the protective effects of semaglutide to stand out more clearly. This aligns with what we've learned about the far-reaching impacts of obesity, which is a significant risk factor for infections and a multitude of other health conditions. Dr. Benjamin Scirica, lead author of the study and professor at Harvard Medical School, noted, “The robust reduction in non-cardiovascular deaths was surprising.” However, he wasn’t entirely shocked, as the connection between obesity and mortality has long been established. The results of the SELECT trial, upon which the study is based, showed that treatment with semaglutide led to a 20% reduction in major cardiovascular events. This supported the belief that semaglutide might have broader benefits for health and longevity. The Bigger Picture: Longevity and Cardiometabolic Health Obesity has long been linked to premature aging and a higher risk of mortality. It’s no wonder that addressing weight and cardiometabolic health could offer protective benefits across the board. This idea isn’t entirely new. Experts have speculated that semaglutide could impact longevity, including Jens Juul Holst, a professor at the University of Copenhagen. Earlier this year, he suggested that it was “more probable than not” that the drug would have an effect on longevity. While the study focuses primarily on semaglutide’s impact on cardiovascular health, the findings offer clues about its broader potential. Semaglutide seems to improve cardiometabolic health in a way that reduces risks associated with obesity, such as heart disease and even susceptibility to infections like COVID-19. By tackling obesity at its root, semaglutide may also be targeting the key drivers of aging. What This Means for the Future If we’re to believe the likes of Dr. Krumholz and Professor Holst, semaglutide may be more than just a weight loss drug—it could be part of the next frontier in longevity science. Just like how The Matrix made us question the nature of reality, this study makes us question the boundaries of what’s possible in the fight against aging. Could something as simple as a weight-loss injection be our ticket to a longer, healthier life? One thing is clear: the relationship between weight, cardiometabolic health, and longevity is complex, and semaglutide might just be the tool we need to unlock the full picture. As we continue to research and uncover more about this drug’s potential, we might find that it has far-reaching benefits we can barely imagine now.
Learn more
Can Changing DNA In The Right Way Help Us Live Forever?
Introduction We millennials have tons of memes about back ache and feeling way older than we are to get us through the day. We know that once we hit the 30s, some kind of biological gong sounds- which says that we have a finite amount of energy and time left. This gong is triggered by all the factors that quicken aging in DNA itself. Our skin is not as elastic and we require anti-ageing treatments to get rid of the wrinkles and laugh lines, our bone health is not great, our hormones are all over the place and our mood is all over the place. It is tempting to blame it on the recession, stress due to poor job prospects and blah blah, but deep down we know that it is not that linear a relationship. Aging, and all the woes we relate with it, happens due to long lasting changes in the DNA. Let us learn more about it, in a slightly technical manner and try to understand how longevity ties in with methylation. DNA Methylation And Ageing DNA is this ultra-functional, coiled core of information found in every cell. The main function of DNA is to be a blueprint, from which genetic instructions can be given to guide cells to do their own thing. We all know that the same DNA is present in every cell but how is each cell going about its own function, which can be pretty different from its neighbour? The answer lies in this phenomenon called ‘methylation’- where a simple functional group or molecule is used to tag DNA in very specific places. These translate to altered instructions and differing functional expertise. Also, as new cells are produced repeatedly, some of the DNA sequences or instructions can get lost in translation- due to many reasons, with aging being a prominent one. This means cellular activity will also begin to change as we grow older and many of the changes we associate with aging are due to DNA methylation not working as well as it should be. The Fraga Study Of Longevity A research study conducted at the University of Oviedo in Spain by Fraga and his colleagues focused on finding the maximum possible lifespan for 18 different mammals. For humans, they found that 118.5 years lifespan was very much a possibility while for mice or smaller mammals, it was much lesser. Their research question was pretty basic- is there a direct relationship between DNA methylation and how long an organism can live? For this, they first tried to understand how long any organism lives. Then, they found that yes, there was a relationship between the two phenomena- but in an inverse fashion. They observed that these DNA methylation or epigenetic changes (called mutations) were fewer in animals which lived longer like elephants or humans while mutations accumulated in much larger amounts in short-lived mammals like mice. Relationship Between Ageing And DNA Modifications These results can be reframed- if we are somehow able to prevent methylation from happening, or slow it down, then you can essentially reduce the rate of aging! Aging occurs due to a combination of factors- one of which is the loss of requisite resources that are needed to efficiently run all cellular machinery. You can think of it as the energy currency or money that cells need to spend to be able to live comfortably and function properly. This currency is none other than the molecule NAD+ which diminishes by as much as 65% from ages 30-70. A very well known study by Dr. David Sinclair based in Harvard has shown that if we supplement cells with certain factors or molecules, they should be able to reprogram themselves to a younger, more potent state. If DNA methylation can be reversed with these factors, it means that we can pop these so-called factors in the form of handy pills and we may feel younger, much sooner. Closer to home, very few longevity related studies have been conducted. The Indian Institute of Science has become a research hub, with their initiative- called Longevity India which aims to study biomarkers, tissue health and even conduct clinical trials using age-relevant subjects as drug metabolism changes with advancing age. What Should You Do Now? With better healthcare and availability of resources, the life expectancy of the Indian population has gone up by almost 4 years- from 63.2 to 67.3 years. The unfortunate thing that happens here is even if we live for longer, our quality of life is not that great. This is again due to aging, combined with a lot of poor lifestyle choices. The number one killer is heart disease in India. These changes don’t creep up on us suddenly- they take years to come to the present point. So, what can we all do? Do you think we should get pills with these ‘reprogramming factors’ so that when we pop them, our biological clock ticks slower than before?
Learn more
Coffee, Kaapi or The Humble Joe- You Do You To Live Longer!
Introduction Coffee was first introduced to us Indians a few centuries ago- by Baba Budan- who as the lore goes managed to smuggle 7 beans when he was on a pilgrimage to Mecca. He had to hide them in his beard to get them here safely. Fast forward to now, and we have hundreds of coffee estates and plantations growing these jewel red beans for its prized muddy brown decoction that we all call ‘coffee’ or ‘kaapi’. Some of us drink coffee in the morning- strong, black, with milk, espresso, latte, decaf, with or without dairy, etc. - however our preference- for innumerable reasons- to wake up, to socialise, to poop, to fill a void, to stave off an existential crisis or genuinely just enjoy a nice, strong cup of coffee. What if we told you that you could add one more reason to the list- i.e. you could live longer because of the blessed cuppa? Research Says Coffee Is Good For You We can do this by looking at 4 large-population based studies based in different parts of the world. They are all observational in nature- which means scientists looked at lots of data that was already collected, to come to some important conclusions. They did not add, manipulate or try to induce any condition in any of these instances. They tend to collect all information over a fixed period of time - like a few decades for example. 4 Observational Studies From 3 Continents Let us look at what some esteemed scientists from Harvard and other universities all over the world have to say about coffee being linked to longevity. The latest and first study from the University of Coimbra in Portugal looked at 85 previously done studies to check if there was any link between regular consumption of coffee and its associated health benefits, along with longevity. They found that if you had about 3 cups of coffee everyday, you lived 1.84 years longer than the average non-coffee drinker. The second study was done in the UK - where over 500,000 Britons gave permission for their data to be used by the UK Biobank, the results of which were published in JAMA Internal Medicine. These individuals were followed over a 10 year period from 2006-2016. They asked participants to fill in highly detailed questionnaires- like how many cups of coffee they consumed daily (from 0-8 or above) and which kind they preferred (ground, instant, decaf, caffeinated, espresso, and so on). A detailed medical history was taken- like age (38-73 years range), weight, height, heart disease risk, diseases they already suffered from and specific parameters for people who smoked or drank alcohol.They wanted to see if the caffeine present was conferring all the positive effects attributed to coffee. Then they tried to check if people who were not able to digest caffeine properly were also able to derive the same benefits as normal folk. Their findings were rather surprising- people who drank decaf were still able to derive all the benefits that a cup of coffee could give! These remained even when the coffee was processed in a specific manner- instant, ground, filter, etc. When these results were compared to people who were not coffee drinkers, they found an inverse relationship between mortality and daily coffee consumption. One important thing to remember is - this study looked at all probable causes for mortality. The third one we will focus on was done at the Baker Heart and Diabetes Research Institute in Melbourne, Australia. The results were published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology. They looked at over 450000 individuals who did not have any cardiac issues like atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat), heart disease, heart failure when the study began. They were followed for a 12 year period, after which results were looked at. About 27800 died during the course of the study. For the rest, it was seen that people who drank coffee in some form had a lower risk of suffering from heart issues when compared to people who did not. The last study (and one of the oldest) we will look at is a Harvard study conducted by Dr. Frank Hu, who headed a 20 year old study. They looked at data from 1976-1996, and had over 210000 people in the study. In it, they tried to see if disease incidence or prevalence was lower with regular coffee consumption or not. The results were very encouraging- you had a lower risk of suffering from Type 2 Diabetes, liver and endometrial cancers, neurodegenerative disorders and depression. Another point of interest was this- people who did NOT smoke seemed to derive the maximum benefits from a cuppa, as opposed to people who smoked. Plus, everyone reacts to caffeine in a different way. Conclusion Why do you think coffee is such a versatile and healthy drink? This same question has puzzled scientists for millenia and the one answer they all seem to agree on is- the caffeine present has very little to do with all the health benefits that coffee has to offer. Coffee has thousands of chemicals present- many of which are good antioxidants. It also contains minerals and compounds that all work together in a synergistic manner. The main point of focus for all of these studies was hinging on coffee’s purported effects on longevity. The answer was a resounding yes! People tended to fall ill a lot less and hence lived much longer! This totally means that coffee was and is a drink for the ages!
Learn more