Do Longevity Supplements Like Resveratrol and NR Work?

TL;DR

Longevity supplements like resveratrol and NAD boosters (NR and NMN) lack sufficient evidence for lifespan extension, despite some health benefits. Resveratrol might improve vascular function, while NAD supplements can enhance energy levels without proven effects on longevity. Drugs like metformin and rapamycin show promise but require further study, and focusing on fundamentals like sleep, nutrition, and exercise is crucial for health.

Transcript

ANDREW HUBERMAN: Welcome to the Huberman Lab podcast where we discuss science and science-based tools for everyday life. [MUSIC PLAYING] I'm Andrew Huberman, and I'm a professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine. Today is an Ask Me Anything episode, or AMA. This is part of our premium subscriber channel. Our premium s... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧑‍⚕️ Resveratrol supplements may have health benefits, but their ability to extend lifespan is uncertain.
• 👍 NAD supplements like NR and NMN can provide mental and physical energy but have no proven effect on lifespan.
• ❓ Metformin and berberine's impact on longevity is unclear, and their side effects must be considered.
• 👨‍🔬 Rapamycin is being studied for its potential to increase lifespan, but more research is needed.
• 😌 The foundation of a long and healthy life lies in basics such as sleep, exercise, nutrition, stress control, and social connections, which have a greater impact than supplements or drugs.
• ❓ Consultation with a healthcare professional is crucial before considering any supplements or drugs for longevity.

Questions & Answers

Q: Can resveratrol increase lifespan?

There is little scientific evidence to support the claim that resveratrol can extend lifespan. However, it may have positive effects on vascular function and blood flow.

Q: Are NAD supplements like NR and NMN effective in increasing lifespan?

There is no direct evidence to suggest that NAD supplements can increase lifespan in humans. However, they may provide mental and physical energy due to increased NAD levels.

Q: Should I take metformin or berberine to increase longevity?

The data is insufficient to support the use of metformin or berberine for lifespan extension. The potential side effects of these drugs should also be considered.

Q: Is rapamycin an effective drug for increasing lifespan?

The effects of rapamycin on lifespan are still under investigation, and there is limited evidence to support its use. It is primarily used as an anticancer drug.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Resveratrol, once believed to extend lifespan, has little direct evidence to support this claim. However, it may have several health benefits, such as improving vascular function.

• NAD supplements, such as NR and NMN, are taken to increase NAD levels. While they may provide mental and physical energy, there is no clear evidence that they can extend lifespan.

• Metformin and berberine, known to lower blood glucose and decrease mTOR levels, are often considered for longevity. However, their effects on lifespan are still uncertain, and the side effects may outweigh the benefits.

• Rapamycin, an anticancer drug that targets mTOR, is under investigation for its potential to extend lifespan. However, there is limited evidence to support its use at present.