While some "anti-aging" pills show potential, most come with caveats and risks. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits, concerns, and current research on four popular substances.
1. Aspirin
- Potential Benefits:
- Long used to lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- May provide minor cardiovascular benefits for adults aged 40-59 without cardiovascular disease (CVD).
- Risks:
- Can cause bleeding in the stomach or brain, especially in people 60+ without CVD.
- Experts recommend consulting a doctor before starting a daily regimen.
2. Metformin
- Potential Benefits:
- A prescription drug for type 2 diabetes.
- Linked to reduced cancer risk, better heart health, and cognitive protection.
- Animal studies suggest it may extend lifespan and healthspan.
- Risks:
- Side effects like diarrhea.
- Long-term use for non-diabetics is not yet proven safe or effective.
3. Prevagen
- Potential Benefits:
- Marketed as a memory booster.
- Concerns:
- Unproven claims: The company has faced lawsuits and government charges for deceptive advertising.
- Like other supplements, such as Focus Factor or Neuriva, its efficacy and safety were not independently verified before market release.
4. Rapamycin
- Potential Benefits:
- Originally developed as a drug for kidney transplant patients.
- Mimics effects of calorie restriction, which has been shown to extend lifespan in animal studies.
- May help prevent some cancers and improve cardiovascular health.
- Risks:
- Immune suppression: May weaken infection defenses.
- Limited research in humans; most evidence comes from animal studies.
Summing it up
While some of these pills show promise, many carry unproven claims, potential risks, and side effects. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any regimen for anti-aging benefits.
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