Reversing the ageing process is the ultimate aspiration but few people take it as seriously as Dave Asprey.
The former Silicon Valley executive has invested millions into hacking his own body clock.
The self-proclaimed “maverick of entrepreneurial health science space” is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, the CEO of Upgrade Labs and host of a podcast called The Human Upgrade.
It says a lot about Asprey’s credentials that his lofty goal of living to 180 is not met with ridicule but a mix of intrigue and expectation.
Longevity (obviously) cannot be boiled down to a single course of action and the science in this space is fast-evolving.
With that aside, GB News sat down with the rogue entrepreneur to get his take on the best supplements for longevity.
The self-proclaimed ‘maverick of entrepreneurial health science space’ plans to live to see 180
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What does he take?
“There are a variety of supplements that you can take to support longevity – most of them I have talked about on my podcast, The Human Upgrade,” Asprey told GB News.
Before you reach for the advanced stuff, the entrepreneur recommends having the basics in place – minerals and a blend of fat-soluble vitamins.
Asprey explained: “Minerals are essential for every biochemical reaction that happens in your body. Fat soluble vitamins D, A , K and E help move minerals around to where they need to go to work their magic.
“If you don’t have enough minerals (most of us don’t), you’ll age more quickly regardless of what other supplements you’re taking. That’s why I recommend going with the basics first.”
His recommendations have scientific backing. In a perspective article published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Biochemist Bruce Ames from the University of California, Berkeley, touts 41 vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids, that he says may help with healthy ageing.
These substances help keep the body running smoothly. If supplies run low, the body may have to pull resources from tasks like repairing DNA damage that keep cells younger and healthier, but keeping supplies up could prevent this, according to Ames.
Once you have those down, you can start looking at “higher-level” formulations, such as those containing urolithin A, Asprey says.
This compound, produced by the gut, targets the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy in your body.
“When your mitochondria aren’t working well, you age faster. Urolithin A encourages your body to weed out the weak mitochondria and grow new, healthier ones,” Asprey explained.
Urolithin A targets the mitochondria, which are responsible for producing energy in your body
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Boosting the mitochondria has the backing of Doctor Mohammed Enayat.
He’s experimenting with novel techniques to enhance these “powerhouses” of cells through his company HUM2N, which specialises in slowing down and reversing the ageing process.
“When your mitochondria do not receive the instructions they need from your body’s DNA to make energy, it can damage your cells or cause them to die early,” he previously told GB News.
What else does Asprey recommend?
The longevity entrepreneur recommends taking a blend of “powerful ancient plant extracts” that encourage your body to release stem cells.
As you age, the number of stem cells in your body decreases. Their ability to rejuvenate your body also decreases as you get older.
“This is why young people recover quickly from injuries,” Asprey said.
According to the Upgrade Labs CEO, taking the right mix of herbal supplements can release stem cells from your bone marrow.
“These stem cells can then circulate to the tissues in your body that need healing. This is an amazing and cost-effective way to tap into the power of stem cells.”
It must be noted that there’s limited evidence to suggest that stem cell supplements can increase the body’s stem cells. More research is needed to determine the effectiveness and safety of these products for various health conditions and general health purposes.
Supplements that boost stemn cell production in the body hold promise but more research is needed
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Mad about NAD
Asprey is also a fan of NAD boosters like nicotinamide riboside (NR), nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) and niacinamide (a form of vitamin B3).
NAD is a coenzyme made in your body that is crucial for creating energy, repairing damage, and supporting tissue function.
NAD levels decline as you age, and scientists believe this decrease in NAD levels may contribute to the hallmarks of ageing.
“We know that if we can replace and top up your levels of NAD+, you will utilise oxygen better and make energy better at the cellular level,” added Doctor Enyat.
Numerous studies have demonstrated that boosting NAD+ levels increases insulin sensitivity, reverses mitochondrial dysfunction, and extends lifespan.
The above are some of Asprey’s favourite supplements but they represent only a fraction of what he takes every day.
“I take over 100 pills per day. I won’t tell you everything that I take, because what works for me won’t necessarily work for you,” he told GB News.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
