Some of the top supplements that help mimic caloric restriction are:
1. Resveratrol
Resveratrol is known for its role in the “French Paradox”. It is also known as “red wine molecule”.
- It is a polyphenol found in:
- Red wine
- Grapes
- Berries
- Peanuts
- Often paired with NAD+ boosters for their maximum impact on cellular health, fueling sirtuins.
- Most studies CR mimetics for cardiovascular and metabolic health.
- Benefits:
- Sirtuin activation
- Improved mitochondrial function
- Anti-inflammatory
- Enhanced heart health
2. Nicotinamide Riboside (NR) / NMN
These are precursors to NAD+. It is a coenzyme, vital for energy and cellular repair.
- NAD+ levels decline with age. This results in:
- Fatigue
- Slower recovery
- Metabolic issues
- These supplements help:
- Boost NAD+ levels
- Support sirtuin activation
- Enhance mitochondrial function
- Most popular cellular health supplements for fighting fatigue and aging.
3. Berberine
Berberine is a bright yellow alkaloid extracted from plants. It is often used as a natural alternative to metformin for its metabolic benefits.
- Activates AMPK, which helps improve:
- Blood sugar balance
- Fat metabolism
- Insulin sensitivity
- Energy efficiency
- Mimics the effects of intermittent fasting.
- Essential in many fasting mimetic compound stacks.
- Benefits:
- Support healthy cholesterol
- Fat burning
- Weight management
4. Metformin
Metformin is originally a diabetes drug. It is gaining attention as a potential longevity supplement.
- Activates AMPK.
- Mimic some caloric restriction benefits.
- Often linked to lower rates of age-related diseases in observational studies.
- Should be considered only under medical guidance.
- Possible side effects are B12 deficiency and GI upset.
5. Quercetin
Quercetin is a plant flavonoid. It is found in abundance in onions, apples, and citrus.
- Works synergetically with senolytics, like fisetin. Provides improved cellular benefits.
- Often used in anti-aging nutrient stacks.
- Benefits:
- Supports mitochondrial health
- Anti-inflammatory
- Combats oxidative stress
- Mild senolytic effects
6. Fisetin
Fisetin is a plant polyphenol with senolytic properties. It helps clear out aged cells from our body.
- Typically used in periodic doses rather than daily.
- Benefits:
- Promotes autophagy
- Reduces inflammation
- Supports cellular rejuvenation
7. Spermidine
Spermidine is emerging as a promising longevity supplement.
- Naturally present in:
- Wheat germ
- Soy
- Mushrooms
- Aged cheese
- Stimulates autophagy, a cellular “cleanup” process.
- Benefits:
- Better cardiovascular health
- Optimum brain function
- Lifespan extension
8. Curcumin
Curcumin is an active compound in turmeric. It provides a wide range of anti-aging benefits.
- Often combined with black pepper extract for better absorption.
- Favorite among fasting mimetic compound blends.
- Benefits:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Promotes AMPK activation
- Combats oxidative stress
- Maintains youthful vitality
9. Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA)
ALA is a powerful antioxidant. It is a potent mitochondrial booster. It helps your cells produce energy efficiently.
- Often paired with acetyl-L-carnitine.
- Benefits:
- Improves fat metabolism
- Combats oxidative stress
- Mimics intermittent fasting benefits
10. Green Tea Extract (EGCG)
EGCG is a star catechin found in green tea. It is an AMPK activator and a fat metabolism booster.
- For everyday benefits, used as a cellular health supplement.
- Benefits:
- Promotes heart health
- Supports fat oxidation
- Improves metabolic resilience
