Ageing is an inevitable journey, yet the pace at which we age varies greatly among individuals. Factors like stress, inflammation, and oxidative stress accelerate ageing, leaving us vulnerable to chronic diseases and reduced quality of life. Recent research from a randomized controlled trial sheds light on a promising solution to counteract these effects—a supplement blend of AM3, spermidine, and hesperidin. This study demonstrates how this combination enhances immune function, reduces biological age, and improves overall health.
Biological Age and Ageing Mechanisms
Chronological age measures the number of years we’ve lived, but biological age reflects how fast our bodies are ageing. Factors like oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, or “oxi-inflammaging,” significantly contribute to biological ageing. These processes damage cells, disrupt homeostatic systems like the nervous and immune systems, and increase susceptibility to diseases.
The immune system plays a critical role in this process. Over time, immune cells produce pro-inflammatory and pro-oxidant compounds, leading to immunosenescence—the gradual decline of immune function. This makes the immune system both a marker of biological age and a potential target for anti-ageing interventions.
The Study: A Closer Look
Conducted by researchers from Complutense University of Madrid, this double-blind, randomized controlled trial examined the effects of a two-month supplementation regimen with AM3, spermidine, and hesperidin. The study enrolled 41 healthy participants aged 30 to 60, divided into placebo and supplement groups. Participants in the supplement group took two capsules daily containing AM3 (150 mg), spermidine (0.6 mg), and hesperidin (50 mg).
Baseline and post-treatment assessments measured biological age, immune function, and redox and inflammatory states. The researchers used the Immunity Clock model, which evaluates immune parameters to calculate biological age.
Key Findings
Reduction in Biological Age:
The supplement group showed a significant decrease in biological age, averaging an 11-year reduction. This improvement highlights the supplement’s potential to rejuvenate the ageing process.
Enhanced Immune Function:
- Chemotaxis: The ability of neutrophils and lymphocytes to migrate towards infection sites improved significantly.
- Phagocytosis: Neutrophils demonstrated enhanced capacity to engulf harmful particles, reflecting a stronger defense system.
- Lymphoproliferation: Increased lymphocyte proliferation in response to mitogens was observed, indicating a robust immune response.
- Natural killer (NK) cell activity, however, remained unchanged.
Improved Redox State:
- Antioxidant enzyme activities, including glutathione reductase and peroxidase, increased.
- Oxidative stress markers, such as the GSSG/GSH ratio and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARs), decreased significantly.
- Enhanced levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) suggest better antioxidant defenses.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects:
- Pro-inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α and IL-1β decreased.
- Anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 levels rose, resulting in a favorable TNF-α/IL-10 ratio.
- An increase in IL-6 was noted, potentially linked to cellular repair and reprogramming mechanisms.
Science Behind the Ingredients
AM3:
A key component of Immunoferon®, AM3 modulates immune responses and reduces inflammation. Though its antioxidant properties are less explored, its role in enhancing immune functionality is well-documented.
Spermidine:
This polyamine supports cell viability, proliferation, and differentiation. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties contribute to reduced oxidative stress and enhanced immune health. Spermidine is also linked to autophagy, a process that clears damaged cells and supports cellular renewal.
Hesperidin:
Found in citrus fruits, this flavonoid exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production and enhances antioxidant activity, making it valuable for managing oxidative and inflammatory stress.
Role of Oxidative and Inflammatory Stress in Ageing
Oxidative stress results from an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, leading to cellular damage. Inflammation, on the other hand, involves immune responses that can become chronic, causing tissue damage. Together, these stresses accelerate ageing by impairing homeostatic systems and increasing disease risk.
The study’s findings underscore the importance of targeting these stresses to slow ageing. By enhancing antioxidant defenses and reducing inflammation, the supplement blend provides a comprehensive approach to healthy ageing.
Clinical Implications
This research offers a promising avenue for addressing ageing-related challenges. Supplements like the AM3, spermidine, and hesperidin blend can:
- Promote Healthy Ageing: By reducing biological age and improving immune function, individuals may enjoy better health and longevity.
- Reduce Disease Risk: Enhanced immune function and lower oxidative stress decrease the likelihood of chronic diseases.
- Support Longevity Research: Understanding how such supplements impact ageing can inform strategies to extend health spans.
Limitations and Future Directions
While the results are compelling, the study had limitations:
- Small Sample Size: A larger cohort is needed for more robust conclusions.
- Short Duration: Long-term effects of supplementation remain unknown.
- Dietary Factors: Participants’ antioxidant intake through diet was not controlled, potentially influencing results.
Future research should explore:
- Long-term effects of the supplement on ageing and disease prevention.
- Optimal dosages and durations for maximum benefits.
- Animal studies to validate findings and assess longevity impacts.
Practical Takeaways
For those seeking to age gracefully, this study highlights actionable steps:
- Incorporate Antioxidants: Include foods rich in antioxidants like citrus fruits, green tea, and nuts in your diet.
- Consider Supplementation: Consult a healthcare provider about adding AM3, spermidine, or hesperidin supplements to your routine.
- Manage Stress: Chronic stress accelerates ageing. Practices like meditation and regular exercise can help.
- Stay Active: Physical activity supports immune health and reduces inflammation.
In sum, ageing gracefully is no longer a distant dream but a tangible goal supported by science. The AM3, spermidine, and hesperidin supplement represents a breakthrough in promoting healthy ageing, reducing biological age, and enhancing immune function. While further research is needed, this study provides a foundation for harnessing the power of nutrition to improve our health spans and lifespans.
The study is published in the journal Antioxidants. It was led by Judith Félix from Complutense University of Madrid.
