Anti-Aging

The Anti-Aging effects of spermidine: what is spermidine and how does it work?

11 August 2024
Sophie de Boer

When you first hear the name 'spermidine,' you might think this article is about something entirely different (don't worry, it's not). But if you're as interested in slowing down aging as anti-aging experts like Brian Johnson and Aubrey de Grey, then spermidine is something you can't ignore. Rejuvenation experts often mention spermidine as a powerful substance to reduce signs of aging and lower your biological age.

In this article, we'll explore what spermidine is, how it works, and why it's getting so much attention in the world of rejuvenation and longevity.

What is spermidine?

Spermidine is a natural compound that plays an important role in various processes in our cells. It helps with cell growth and division and ensures that cells stay healthy. Spermidine stabilizes our DNA, regulates which genes are turned on or off, and supports autophagy, a process where cells break down and reuse damaged parts. This process is important for staying healthy longer, making spermidine an interesting topic in aging research.

Spermidine and autophagy

The word "autophagy" comes from the Greek words "auto" (self) and "phagein" (to eat), which literally means "self-eating."

Autophagy is a crucial process in our cells that helps keep them healthy by cleaning up damaged parts and proteins. As we age, autophagy becomes less efficient, leading to a buildup of waste and cell aging. Spermidine has been shown to be a strong agent in stimulating autophagy, which can help rejuvenate aging cells.

In a study published in Nature Medicine, researchers discovered that mice fed a diet rich in spermidine lived longer and had better cardiovascular health. This was because spermidine stimulated the autophagy process, which allowed damaged parts of the cells to be cleaned up more effectively. Additionally, spermidine reduced oxidative stress in the cells, which helps combat aging.

Spermidine and mitochondrial function

In addition to stimulating autophagy, spermidine also affects the function of mitochondria. Mitochondria, the powerhouses of our cells, play a crucial role in the aging process. As we age, these mitochondria become less efficient, leading to lower energy levels and more harmful substances, like free radicals. Spermidine helps mitochondria function better by stimulating a process called mitophagy, where damaged mitochondria are broken down and reused. In a study published in Cell Reports, spermidine supplements were found to significantly improve mitochondrial function in older cells. This led to increased energy levels in the cells and reduced production of harmful free radicals.

What scientists say about spermidine:

"Spermidine is one of the most promising compounds we have discovered to extend lifespan and delay aging through the activation of autophagy." Dr. Guido Kroemer, biogerontologist.
"Our studies show that spermidine not only extends lifespan in model organisms like mice but also protects against age-related diseases by keeping cells healthy." Professor Frank Madeo, pioneer in spermidine research.
"Spermidine has shown that it can help improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress, which is crucial in the fight against aging." Dr. David Sinclair, leading aging researcher.

How much spermidine should you take, and is it safe?

The body naturally produces spermidine, but this decreases as you age. To stimulate cell rejuvenation, it's recommended to eat foods rich in spermidine or take a spermidine supplement.

The amount of spermidine considered beneficial is often based on research. A 2018 study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming about 6 mg of spermidine per day, especially from foods like whole grains, soybeans, mushrooms, and aged cheese, was associated with a lower risk of death, particularly from cardiovascular diseases. While the exact amount can vary per person and depending on whether you get spermidine from food or supplements, 6 mg per day seems to be a good guideline for anti-aging effects.

But how much of certain foods do you need to eat to get 6 mg of spermidine per day? Well, quite a lot.. For example, you would need to eat more than a kilogram of aged cheese, 500 grams of soybeans, or 700 grams of lentils each day to get 6 mg of spermidine. In practice, it's best to combine different foods rich in spermidine. Of course, you can also choose to take spermidine in the form of a supplement.

And is spermidine safe? Yes, when obtained through food, it is definitely safe. For spermidine supplements, studies show that they are safe at normal dosages. Most studies report no serious side effects.

Conclusion

Spermidine is a promising compound with strong anti-aging properties. It helps mainly by stimulating autophagy and improving mitochondrial function. Scientific research shows that spermidine can rejuvenate cells, contributing to better health and a longer life. Therefore, using spermidine through diet or supplements could be a good way to combat aging.