Supplements Shown to Extend Lifespan - Top Longevity Program Results
Supplements Shown to Extend Lifespan: Insights from the National Institute on Aging’s Interventions Testing Program
Humanity’s quest for longevity has evolved from mythical “Water of Life” tales to a scientific focus on supplements and pharmaceuticals. While conclusive human studies are challenging, animal studies provide valuable insights. The National Institute on Aging’s Interventions Testing Program (ITP) rigorously tests compounds for life extension potential in mice. Here’s a deep dive into the most promising results from this groundbreaking program.
What is the Interventions Testing Program (ITP)?
Established in 2002, the ITP tests the effects of various compounds on mouse lifespan. Over its 20+ years, the program has identified nine compounds that extend lifespan in mice. These findings are critical for understanding potential human applications.
Key Longevity Compounds and Findings
- Acarbose
- Mechanism: Blocks glucose absorption.
- Results: Extended median lifespan by 22% in male mice and 5% in females.
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Implications: Benefits may stem from reduced calorie absorption, mimicking calorie restriction. However, side effects like muscle mass loss in humans raise concerns. Resistance training may mitigate these effects.
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Canagliflozin
- Mechanism: Sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitor.
- Results: Increased male mice median lifespan by 14%.
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Implications: Improves glucose tolerance but may downregulate proteins in muscle stem cells.
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Aspirin
- Mechanism: Anti-inflammatory effects.
- Results: Median lifespan extension of 8% in male mice.
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Implications: While it may reduce cardiovascular risk in younger populations, studies show potential cancer-related risks in older adults.
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Glycine
- Mechanism: Supports collagen production and methionine balance.
- Results: Increased maximum lifespan by 4–6% in mice.
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Implications: High methionine diets (common in modern diets) may be counterbalanced by glycine, improving longevity markers.
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Captopril
- Mechanism: ACE inhibitor for hypertension.
- Results: Increased lifespan by 4–5% in female mice.
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Implications: Effective for managing blood pressure but may not be ideal for recreational longevity use due to side effects.
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Nordihydroguaiaretic Acid (NDGA)
- Mechanism: Reduces inflammation via NRF2 activation.
- Results: Increased lifespan by 10% in both sexes.
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Implications: A promising compound, though limited availability restricts its current use.
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Protandim
- Mechanism: NRF2 activation with herbal ingredients.
- Results: Median lifespan extension of 7% in male mice.
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Implications: Limited by proprietary blends and high costs.
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Rapamycin
- Mechanism: mTOR pathway modulation.
- Results: Lifespan extension of 9–18%, even when administered late in life.
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Implications: The most promising compound, with ongoing human trials suggesting potential immune-enhancing effects when used intermittently.
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17-Alpha Estradiol
- Mechanism: Non-feminizing estrogen.
- Results: Increased male lifespan by 19%.
- Implications: Works in the presence of male hormones, countering some androgen-related risks.
Practical Takeaways
- Personalized Use: Many compounds show promise in specific contexts but may have trade-offs, such as muscle loss or immune modulation. Personalized approaches, including resistance training and dietary adjustments, are crucial.
- Rapamycin’s Potential: Among all tested compounds, rapamycin stands out as the most promising for human longevity, warranting further clinical trials.
- Dietary Focus: Glycine supplementation may offer a practical, accessible longevity strategy, particularly in methionine-rich diets.
The ITP’s findings underscore the complexity of translating animal research to human applications. While these compounds offer exciting possibilities, a holistic approach—including diet, exercise, and medical guidance—remains foundational for longevity.