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Spermidine's fountain of youth | Biohacking your body
7 November 2023 | James Kearslake
Table of Contents
Fun Fact
Spermidine got its name from its discovery in semen. The term ‘spermidine’ was coined in 1928 by a researcher named S. Windaus, and it comes from the Greek word ‘sperma’ (meaning seed) and ‘amino’ (indicating its amino acid nature). While it was initially found in semen, it is now known to be present in various bodily tissues and foods.
What Is Spermidine
While the fountain of youth remains elusive, spermidine is a supplement recently launched that is believed to promote cellular longevity. With its ability to aid cell growth, being fundamental to tissue repair and maintenance, and its capacity in DNA stabilisation, it can prevent cellular decline, and aid the production of new cells.
Its physiological improvements extend to brain health, protecting the neuro system through a reduction in oxidative stress as well as promoting the survival of neurons. This improvement brain health directly benefits cognitive function, improving cognitive performance and mental clarity.
Spermidine is a naturally occurring polyamine, an organic compound characterised by the presence of multiple amino groups. It is found in various biological tissues, including human cells and certain foods, and supports various essential physiological processes.
The Uses of Spermidine in the Body
Spermidine serves several critical functions in the human body, including:
- Cell Growth and Division – Spermidine is essential for cell growth and division, which are fundamental processes in tissue repair, maintenance, and overall cell development. More on this below.
- DNA Stability – Spermidine binds to DNA molecules, helping to stabilise their structure. This interaction is crucial for the protection and integrity of genetic material. More on this below.
- Autophagy – Autophagy is the process of cellular self-cleansing and renewal. Spermidine promotes autophagy, helping to remove damaged cellular components and improve overall cell health. More on this below.
- Neuroprotection – Spermadine’s ability to benefit the body at a cellular level extends to brain health, reducing oxidative stress as well as promoting survival of neurons. More on this below.
- Longevity – It is also shown to increase the lifespan of various organisms including animals, making it a go to supplement for those looking to ensure health longevity. More on this below.
- Cardiovascular Health – It is although considered that spermidine has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, improving physical performance in training, and potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
The Benefits of Taking Spermidine Supplements
Given its diverse functions in the body, spermidine has become a popular supplement in biohacking and neuroscience communities.
Benefits of spermidine supplements include:
- Enhanced Cellular Health – Spermidine supports cell growth, DNA stability, and autophagy, which can collectively lead to improved cellular health and overall wellbeing.
- Anti-Aging – It has also demonstrated longevity-promoting effects in animal studies, offering hope for a healthier and longer life.
- Brain Health and Cognitive Function – Spermidine’s potential neuroprotective effects can help maintain cognitive function and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Hair and Skin Health – Many users also report improved hair and skin quality after taking spermidine supplements.
- Improved Cardiovascular Health – Spermidine may also reduce the risk of heart disease by promoting healthy blood vessels and supporting normal blood pressure levels.
The Significance of Cell Growth and Division
Cell growth and division are fundamental processes that play a critical role in the overall health and function of the human body. These processes are essential for several key reasons:
- Tissue Repair and Regeneration – Cell growth and division are at the core of tissue repair and regeneration. When the body experiences injury or damage, cells need to multiply and differentiate to replace damaged or dead cells. This is how wounds heal and tissues recover after injury or illness.
- Development and Growth – From the moment we’re conceived, cell growth and division drive the development and growth of an organism. As an embryo develops into a fully formed individual, cells divide and differentiate into the various specialised cell types that make up different organs and tissues.
- Immune System Function – The immune system relies on rapid cell division to produce immune cells, such as white blood cells, to combat infections and illnesses. Without efficient cell division, the body’s ability to fight off pathogens would be severely compromised.
- Homeostasis – Cell growth and division are essential for maintaining homeostasis, which is the body’s ability to regulate internal conditions to ensure stability. In the case of cells, this means ensuring that the right number of cells are present in each tissue or organ to maintain proper function.
- Hormone Regulation – Many hormones in the body control cell growth and division. For example, growth hormone is responsible for stimulating cell growth, especially during childhood and adolescence. Other hormones help regulate the cell cycle and prevent excessive or uncontrolled cell division, which can lead to cancer.
- Genetic Stability – Proper cell division ensures genetic stability. When cells divide, they must replicate their DNA accurately to pass on genetic information to the new cells. Any errors in DNA replication can lead to genetic mutations and potentially contribute to disease or cancer.
In essence, the precise control of cell growth and division is crucial for overall health, tissue repair, immune function, and the development of an individual from a single cell into a complex, multicellular organism. Without these processes, life as we know it would not be possible.
Supplements that support the process of cell growth and division are a key development in biohacking communities, as they aid the essential physiological processes happening within us at a cellular level.
The Significance of DNA Stability
DNA stability is the bedrock of genetic information, ensuring that genetic material is faithfully replicated, maintained, and protected. This stability is crucial for the normal development, growth, and health of an organism and for the preservation of species across generations.
DNA stability is, therefore, a cornerstone of life itself, safeguarding the blueprint of all living organisms.
It affects the body in the following ways:
- Genetic Integrity – DNA stability is central to maintaining the genetic integrity of an organism. It ensures that the genetic information passed from one generation to the next remains accurate and unchanged. This is essential for the preservation of species and the prevention of genetic disorders.
- Cell Reproduction – DNA stability is vital during cell reproduction, including mitosis (cell division) and meiosis (cell division for sexual reproduction). Accurate replication of DNA is necessary for the production of identical and genetically identical daughter cells.
- Repair Mechanisms – DNA is susceptible to damage from various sources, including radiation, chemicals, and even normal metabolic processes. The body has sophisticated repair mechanisms that constantly monitor and correct DNA damage to maintain genetic stability.
- Prevention of Mutations – Mutations in DNA can lead to various health issues, including cancer. DNA stability helps prevent these mutations by ensuring that the genetic code remains consistent. Any mutations that do occur are often corrected through repair mechanisms.
- Development and Growth – DNA stability is crucial for the proper development and growth of an organism. During these processes, cells undergo numerous rounds of division and differentiation, making it essential that DNA replication remains accurate.
- Gene Expression – Accurate DNA stability is also required for gene expression. Genes need to be read and transcribed faithfully to produce functional proteins and maintain normal cellular processes.
- Evolution – Over the long term, DNA stability contributes to the evolution of species. While mutations and genetic diversity are important for adaptation to changing environments, they need to occur in a controlled and balanced manner. DNA stability ensures that most genetic information remains constant while allowing for necessary genetic diversity.
The Significance of Autophagy
Autophagy is a vital cellular process that plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. It’s a highly regulated process that involves the breakdown and recycling of damaged or unnecessary cellular components.
Autophagy is involved in the following activities in the body:
- Cellular Clean-Up – Autophagy is like a cellular cleaning system. It allows the cell to remove and recycle damaged or dysfunctional organelles, proteins, and other cellular components. This helps maintain cellular health and function.
- Stress Response – Autophagy is activated in response to cellular stressors, such as nutrient deprivation, oxidative stress, or infections. It’s a protective mechanism that allows the cell to adapt and survive under adverse conditions.
- Energy Balance – During autophagy, cellular components are broken down into their basic building blocks, providing the cell with a source of energy and nutrients. This can be especially crucial during times of energy scarcity.
- Cellular Homeostasis – Autophagy plays a key role in maintaining cellular homeostasis, ensuring that the cell operates optimally. It prevents the accumulation of damaged or toxic materials that could disrupt normal cell function.
- Immune Function – Autophagy is involved in the body’s immune response. It helps the immune system recognize and eliminate invading pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses, by engulfing and digesting them.
- Longevity and Aging – Emerging research suggests that autophagy is associated with longevity. Enhanced autophagy has been linked to extended lifespan in various organisms. It can help delay the aging process by promoting cellular health and reducing the accumulation of cellular damage.
- Neuroprotection – Autophagy is particularly important in the brain, as it helps remove misfolded proteins and damaged neurons. Dysfunctional autophagy has been implicated in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Cancer Prevention – Properly functioning autophagy can protect against cancer by removing damaged cells and preventing the accumulation of mutations that could lead to malignancy.
In essence, autophagy is a dynamic and finely tuned process that contributes to cellular health, adaptation, and overall survival. It is involved in numerous physiological functions, from maintaining cellular cleanliness to supporting longevity and disease prevention. Research into the regulation and manipulation of autophagy holds great promise for understanding and improving human health and well-being.
Spermidine and Brain Health
Spermidine is considered to benefit brain health in several ways:
- Neuroprotection – Spermidine has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which helps combat oxidative stress in the brain. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
- Autophagy Promotion – It is promotes autophagy, the cellular process that removes damaged or malfunctioning cellular components. This process is crucial for maintaining the health and function of neurons and may help prevent the accumulation of misfolded proteins linked to neurodegenerative conditions.
- Synaptic Plasticity – Some research suggests that spermidine may enhance synaptic plasticity, which is the brain’s ability to adapt and rewire itself. This can improve learning and memory.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects – Chronic inflammation is implicated in various neurological disorders. Spermidine’s anti-inflammatory properties may help protect the brain from inflammatory damage.
Latest Outcomes and Conclusions by Scientists
Recent studies have yielded promising findings regarding the effects of spermidine on brain health. A study published in the journal ‘Nature Medicine’ in 2019 demonstrated that spermidine supplementation in mice led to improved memory and cognitive function.
Researchers observed reduced age-related brain atrophy and neuroinflammation, indicating spermidine slows age-related cognitive decline.
Another study published in ‘Nature Communications’ in 2020 examined the potential neuroprotective effects of spermidine in a fruit fly model of Alzheimer’s disease. The results indicated that spermidine administration reduced the accumulation of toxic protein aggregates associated with Alzheimer’s.
Spermidine and Longevity
Spermidine is believed to contribute to longevity in several ways:
- Autophagy Induction – Spermidine has been shown to stimulate autophagy, a process that rids cells of damaged components, making them more resilient and efficient. Enhanced autophagy can slow down the aging process and extend lifespan.
- Cellular Health – By promoting autophagy, spermidine helps maintain cellular health and function. This is crucial for longevity because aging is closely linked to cellular deterioration.
- DNA Stability – Spermidine’s role in stabilizing DNA prevents genetic mutations and maintains the integrity of the genetic code. This is vital for maintaining health and longevity.
- Mitochondrial Function – Spermidine may also support mitochondrial function, which is crucial for energy production in cells. Healthy mitochondria are associated with a longer and healthier life.
Natural Ways to Promote Spermidine Production
As well as being available in supplement form, spermidine can also be naturally boosted within the body.
It’s beneficial to always include a mix of natural alternatives alongside supplements to include the additional benefits that come with a combined approach to biohacking.
Below are the supplementary ways to promote endogenous spermidine production:
- Dietary Sources – Certain foods are rich in spermidine, including soybeans, legumes, whole grains, and some aged cheeses.
- Intermittent Fasting – Studies have indicated intermittent fasting increases spermidine levels in the body, potentially due to its positive effect on autophagy.
- Exercise – Regular physical activity has been associated with increased spermidine levels. Engaging in moderate exercise can contribute to higher endogenous spermidine production.
- Sleep – Quality sleep is crucial for many aspects of health and may influence spermidine levels. Ensuring you get sufficient rest is critical for all internal functions within the body and should be a priority technique in your biohacking toolkit.
Potential Risks of Spermidine Supplements
While spermidine supplements offer numerous potential benefits, they are new to market and so risks need to be considered:
- Digestive Issues – Some individuals experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea or diarrhoea, when first taking spermidine supplements. Start with a lower dose and gradually increase dosage to a level that suits your digestive system. Lower dosage and taken consistently is a perfectly effective option for those unable to consume normal dosage levels.
- Interaction with Medications – As with any supplements, spermidine has the potential to interact with existing medications or medical conditions. If you have preexisting health concerns, first consult with a healthcare professional.
- Individual Variability – The effects of spermidine supplements can vary from person to person. What works well for one individual might not have the same impact on another, therefore it’s important to manage the dosage and effects of the supplement when first taking it.
Final Thoughts
We are living in a world where science and technology are chasing the answer to eternal youth, with a market of USD 64 B in 2023, and expected to grow to USD 109.8 B by 2033.
With entrepreneurs chasing the illusive fountain of eternal youth, it is only time before we find the way to prevent aging. Which feels like a very scary idea – the thought of a never aging population, with a rapid increase in global population. The risks are not worth thinking about.
But while the elixir remains just out of grasp of us all, the anti-aging supplement market will continue to provide us with products that help improve the health of our bodies at a physiological level; ensuring our cellular procedures are optimised for a life of longevity and long-term cognitive function.
Spermidine is one of the products we’re excited about, and look forward to continue seeing its benefits for the human body and brain.
Who is James Kearslake?
Having been biohacking my mind and body long before it became fashionable, I’ve always lived by the benefits of nature’s resources to improve cognitive and physiological performance. Using my years of experience, products, and wellness practices, I’m now helping others elevate their cognitive performance to help build the life they want. I save you the time I’ve spent learning, so you can focus your time on building.
Proudly AI Supported
I proudly use AI to support development of my articles. As a heavily dyslexic person, writing can be a time consuming process with words often jumbled up and sentences the wrong way round. AI has become my crutch; allowing me to share the immense interest in my mind, while making content creation quicker and more accurate. AI is my benefit.
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