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Author: Jinfiniti Science

Understanding the Impact of Aging on the Cardiovascular System

As you age, the body undergoes various changes, including those that affect the cardiovascular system. Understanding these changes and their implications for your overall health and well-being is important. This article will explore the basics of the cardiovascular system, the aging process, its direct impact on the cardiovascular system, and common cardiovascular diseases in the elderly. It will also discuss the importance of preventing and managing cardiovascular health in aging.

The Basics of the Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system, or circulatory system, is responsible for transporting blood, oxygen, and nutrients throughout our bodies. It consists of the heart, blood vessels, and blood. The heart acts as a pump, circulating blood to all parts of the body through a network of blood vessels, including arteries, veins, and capillaries.

The cardiovascular system is an intricate network that is crucial in maintaining your overall health. Without it, your body would not receive the necessary oxygen and nutrients needed for survival. Here is more on the fascinating world of the cardiovascular system.

The Heart’s Role in the Cardiovascular System

The heart is a vital organ that continuously beats, pumping blood to all areas of the body. It consists of four chambers – two atria and two ventricles – that work together to ensure efficient blood flow. The atria receive blood from the body and lungs, while the ventricles pump the blood out to the rest of the body.

But did you know that the heart is not just a mechanical pump? It is a complex organ that is intricately connected to emotions1. Your heart rate can increase or decrease when you experience strong emotions such as love or fear. This connection between emotions and the heart is a testament to the intricate nature of the cardiovascular system.

As you age, the heart may undergo certain changes that can impact its function. Conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and arrhythmias can affect the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively. Taking care of your cardiovascular health through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and regular check-ups with a healthcare professional is important.

Blood Vessels and Circulation

Blood vessels are the network of tubes that carry blood throughout the body. Arteries carry oxygen-rich blood away from the heart, while veins carry oxygen-poor blood back to the heart. Capillaries are tiny vessels that connect the arteries and veins at the cellular level, allowing for the exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste products.

Imagine the intricate network of blood vessels running through your body, reaching every nook and cranny. It is like a vast highway system, ensuring that every cell receives the necessary oxygen and nutrients it needs to function properly. Without this intricate network, your body would not be able to survive.

As you age, the efficiency of blood circulation can be affected. The walls of your blood vessels may become less elastic, making it harder for blood to flow smoothly. This can lead to conditions such as high blood pressure or even blockages in the arteries, which can have serious consequences for your health.

It is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle to support optimal blood circulation. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoiding smoking can all contribute to keeping the cardiovascular system in top shape.

In conclusion, the cardiovascular system is a remarkable network that ensures the proper functioning of our bodies. Every component is vital in maintaining your overall health, from the beating heart to the intricate blood vessels. By understanding the basics of the cardiovascular system, you can take steps to care for it and enjoy a healthier life.

The Aging Process and Its General Impact on Health

As you age, the body undergoes various biological changes that can impact your overall health. Both genetic and environmental factors may influence these changes. It is important to understand the general impact of the aging process to ensure optimal health and well-being.

One of the most noticeable biological changes that occur with age is a decrease in muscle mass. This can lead to a loss of strength and mobility, making everyday tasks more challenging. Additionally, the stiffness of joints tends to increase as you age, making movements less fluid and causing discomfort.

Furthermore, hormonal changes play a significant role in the aging process. As you age, the production of certain hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, decreases. This can have various effects on the body, including changes in mood, energy levels, and sexual function.

In addition to these internal changes, the decline in organ function is another common aspect of aging. Organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys may not work as efficiently as they did in your younger years. This can lead to a higher risk of developing chronic conditions and diseases.

Biological Changes with Age

With age, various changes occur in your body. These changes can include a decrease in muscle mass, increased stiffness of joints, hormonal changes, and a decline in organ function. The cardiovascular system is not immune to the effects of aging.

When it comes to the cardiovascular system, aging can have significant implications. The walls of blood vessels may become thicker and less elastic, leading to a decrease in blood flow and an increased risk of high blood pressure. Additionally, the heart muscle may weaken over time, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently.

It is important to note that the aging process affects individuals differently. While some people may experience these changes more prominently, others may age more gracefully with minimal impact on their health. Genetics, lifestyle choices, and overall health play a role in how the aging process unfolds for each individual.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Aging

“Movement is a medicine for creating change in a person’s physical, mental, and emotional state.”

-Carol Welch

Lifestyle factors, such as diet, physical activity, smoking, and stress, can also influence the aging process. Poor lifestyle choices can accelerate the aging process and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, adopting healthy lifestyle habits is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health as you age.

When it comes to diet, consuming a balanced and nutritious meal plan can provide the body with essential nutrients needed for optimal functioning. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help support overall health and slow down the aging process.

Regular physical activity2 is another crucial aspect of healthy aging. Engaging in moderate-intensity exercises, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can help maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Exercise also promotes the release of endorphins, which can improve mood and overall well-being.

Smoking, on the other hand, is a lifestyle choice that can significantly accelerate the aging process. Smoking damages the blood vessels, reduces lung function, and increases the risk of developing various diseases, including heart disease and cancer. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps one can take to slow down the aging process and improve overall health.

Lastly, managing stress levels is essential for healthy aging. Chronic stress can have detrimental effects on both physical and mental health. Finding healthy coping mechanisms, such as practicing mindfulness3, engaging in hobbies, or seeking support from loved ones, can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being.

In conclusion, the aging process brings about various biological changes that can impact your health. Understanding these changes and adopting healthy lifestyle habits can help mitigate the negative effects of aging and promote optimal well-being as you grow older.

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Aging and Its Direct Impact on the Cardiovascular System

Aging directly affects the cardiovascular system, leading to significant changes that can impact its function. It is important to be aware of these age-related changes to effectively manage cardiovascular health in the elderly.

Age-Related Changes in the Heart

As you age, the heart undergoes various changes. The walls of the heart may become thicker, the heart rate may slow down, and the heart’s ability to respond to physical stress may decrease. These changes can affect the heart’s overall efficiency and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

One of the age-related changes in the heart is the thickening of its walls. This occurs due to the accumulation of collagen, a fibrous protein, in the heart muscle. The thickening of the heart walls can lead to a decrease in the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively, resulting in reduced cardiac output.

Another change that occurs in the aging heart is a decrease in the heart rate. This is mainly due to changes in the electrical conduction system of the heart. As you age, the cells responsible for generating electrical signals in the heart may become less efficient, leading to a slower heart rate. This can affect the heart’s ability to respond to physical stress and may result in symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath during exercise.

In addition to the changes in heart structure and function, the aging heart may also experience a decline in its ability to respond to physical stress. This means that the heart may not be able to increase its pumping capacity as efficiently during increased demand, such as during exercise or emotional stress. This reduced ability to respond to stress can increase the risk of cardiovascular events in the elderly.

Aging and Blood Vessels

Blood vessels also undergo age-related changes. Arteries may become stiffer and less elastic, reducing their ability to expand and contract. This can lead to increased blood pressure and decreased blood flow to vital organs. Additionally, the formation of plaques in the arteries (atherosclerosis) becomes more common with age, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

One of the age-related changes in blood vessels is the loss of elasticity. Elasticity is an important property of blood vessels that allows them to expand and contract in response to changes in blood flow. With age, the elastic fibers in the arterial walls may become stiffer and less flexible, leading to decreased elasticity. This can result in increased resistance to blood flow and higher blood pressure.

Another age-related change in blood vessels is the formation of plaques in the arteries. Plaques are fatty deposits that build up on the inner walls of the arteries, narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow. This process, known as atherosclerosis, becomes more common with age and can significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.

Furthermore, the aging process can also affect the endothelial cells lining the blood vessels. These cells play a crucial role in maintaining the health and function of blood vessels. With aging, the endothelial cells may become less efficient in producing nitric oxide, a molecule that helps regulate blood vessel tone and prevents the formation of blood clots. This can further contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases.

In conclusion, aging has a direct impact on the cardiovascular system, leading to various changes in the heart and blood vessels. These age-related changes can affect the overall function of the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Understanding and managing these changes is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health in the elderly.

Common Cardiovascular Diseases in the Elderly

With aging, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases increases. It is important to be aware of these diseases to detect and manage them early, thus reducing the risk of complications.

Heart Disease and Aging

Heart disease, including conditions such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias, is common in the elderly. These conditions can significantly impact cardiovascular health and require appropriate management to prevent complications.

Hypertension in the Elderly

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is prevalent in the elderly population. It is important to regularly monitor blood pressure and manage it effectively to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Prevention and Management of Cardiovascular Health in Aging

Prevention and management are key to maintaining cardiovascular health as you age. By adopting healthy lifestyle choices and seeking regular medical check-ups, you can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improve overall well-being.

Importance of Regular Check-ups

Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals, such as primary care physicians and cardiologists, are crucial for monitoring cardiovascular health and detecting any early signs of disease. These check-ups may include blood pressure measurement, cholesterol level screening, and other relevant tests.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Cardiovascular Health

Adopting a healthy lifestyle plays a pivotal role in maintaining cardiovascular health. This includes eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding or quitting smoking, managing stress levels, and maintaining a healthy weight4.

Conclusion

Understanding the impact of aging on the cardiovascular system is essential for maintaining optimal health and well-being as we grow older. By being aware of the changes that occur with age and adopting healthy lifestyle choices, you can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and enjoy a fulfilling life. Regular check-ups and proactive management of cardiovascular health are crucial in preventing complications and ensuring a healthy aging process. Are you aging fast or slow? Take this test to find out.

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future
  2. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAD+ precursor & Longevity
  3. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD
  4. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 

Referenced Sources:

  1. https://www.abbott.com/corpnewsroom/healthy-heart/heart-emotion.html ↩︎
  2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/exercise-and-the-heart ↩︎
  3. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/mindfulness-exercises/art-20046356 ↩︎
  4. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/index.html# ↩︎

Creatine’s Powerful Longevity Effects Include Far More Than Stamina & Muscle Recovery…

Did you know that creatine was first popularized as a sports supplement by MLB baseball players in the 1990s? Mark McGuire, Slammin’ Sammy Sosa and Barry Bonds and countless other sluggers of the 90s popularized creatine, but now we know it’s incredibly valuable for the normal person slugging it out in everyday life. 

While it was at first used as muscle and energy enhancer, creatine is also powerful for cellular health, anti-aging benefits, brain health, performance, muscle recovery and stamina: because it acts as a battery pack for your cells. 

That’s why creatine is one of the central ingredients for our patent-pending formula, Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster. Nothing else on the market includes that, especially not the researched, precise amount that goes into the formula. This is one of the reasons the Boost is so effective. 

CREATINE & AT

When it comes to enhancing physical performance, few substances can hold a candle to its impact. This naturally occurring compound (found in small amounts in certain foods, but definitely something that should be increased by supplementation) plays a pivotal role in the energy production system, specifically in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the cellular energy currency that fuels muscle contractions during high-intensity activities like weightlifting or springing. 

The primary job of creatine is to replenish ATP. By providing a rapid source of energy, creatine allows individuals to push their physical limits, leading to increased strength, power, and overall athletic performance. It’s like having a turbo boost for your muscles. 

But creatine’s impact extends far beyond the realms of raw muscle strength. Research suggests that it also may have wonderful cognitive benefits, including brain function and potentially aiding tasks that require short bursts of intense mental effort. New research in October 2023 indicates that creatine is also a valuable neurotransmitter that helps to optimize brain function (link on blog here). 

Additionally, creatine has been shown to have a role in muscle recovery, helping reduce inflammation and muscle cell damage post-exercise.

Whether you’re an elite athlete who is striving for peak performance, a casual gym-goer looking to maximize your workouts, or someone interested in maximizing your brain potential, creatine can be a game-changer. If you’re serious about optimizing your physical and mental capabilities, creatine deserves a prime spot in your supplement arsenal… and guess what has an optimized amount of creatine already in it? You guessed it: Jinfiniti’s Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster.

CREATINE & NAD

Creatine and NAD interact in a fascinating dance in the human body. Creatine, the muscle’s go-to energy currency, and NAD, the critical coenzyme involved in over 500+ physiological processes, engage in subtle but impactful interplay, because when creatine is replenishing ATP, it requires a small sacrifice of of NAD. This exchange might seem like a minor detail, but it highlights the interconnected nature of the two elements. 

Some studies even suggest that creatine might have a sparing effect on NAD, potentially helping to maintain its levels during periods of high energy demand. And since NAD is involved in processes like DNA repair and cellular signaling, any influence on its levels could have broader implications beyond just energy metabolism.

In essence, the relationship between creatine and NAD showcases the complexity of our abody’s biochemical symphony. While each plays a distinct role, their subtle interactions remind us that the pathways governing our physiology are a web of connections, where changes in one component can resonate throughout the entire system—in this case—the human body. 

This is why in our Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, we include optimal levels of both creatine and NAD-creating compounds NAD+ precursor and NR. 

Our thousands of test studies and testimonials reveal that it really is an optimized combo that energizes the human body on a cellular level, increases every metabolic system, and largely contributes to anti-aging and longevity results.

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on more health related content, we have an in-depth blog with prior emails and content. Here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

As always, we remain committed to your greatest healthspan, vibrancy and optimization. 

Research:

Central Nervous System: Is Creatine a Neurotransmitter?

5 Biohacking Protocols for Weight Loss That Actually Work

The pursuit of weight loss has become increasingly convoluted, with marketing often drowning out metabolic science. Yet the research literature points to a clear conclusion: sustainable weight loss emerges from understanding and optimizing fundamental metabolic processes.

Clinical data and mechanistic studies reveal that successful weight management protocols share key physiological pathways. These evidence-based approaches transcend simple caloric equations, focusing instead on the complex interplay between body composition, metabolic function, and long-term health outcomes.

This analysis examines five protocols for biohacking weight loss that leverage current understanding of glucose regulation, hormonal signaling, and cellular metabolism. Each represents a systematic approach validated through randomized controlled trials and mechanistic research. The focus here isn’t on quick fixes, but rather on understanding the biochemical foundations that determine both efficacy and individual response variation.


In this article, we will cover:

  • How five evidence-based biohacking techniques work together to optimize your metabolism and promote weight loss through natural biological pathways rather than restrictive dieting
  • The science behind sustainable weight loss results, including how temperature exposure, strategic exercise, and protein timing influence your body’s metabolic systems
  • A comprehensive approach to overall health that leverages everything from sleep optimization to cellular energy pathways, creating lasting changes in body composition without relying on quick fixes

Biohacking for Weight Loss from a Systems Perspective

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The conventional model of weight management – calories in versus calories out – represents what systems biologists would call a first-order approximation. While technically correct, this model fails to capture the complex regulatory networks that determine how the body processes and partitions energy to promote fat loss.

At the foundation of this hierarchy lies metabolic flexibility: the body’s capacity to efficiently switch between different fuel substrates based on availability and demand. This dynamic process involves multiple organ systems and is regulated by three primary control mechanisms that influence body weight:

  • First, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis serves as the master regulator, influencing everything from hunger signaling to fat storage through hormonal cascades. When this system becomes dysregulated – often through chronic stress, inflammation, or disrupted sleep patterns – weight loss becomes mechanistically more challenging, regardless of caloric intake.
  • Second, mitochondrial function determines cellular energy efficiency. These cellular powerhouses don’t simply burn calories; they respond to environmental signals, altering their number, size, and efficiency based on demand. Research indicates that individuals with impaired mitochondrial function often struggle with weight management, even under caloric restriction.
  • Third, the gut-brain axis emerges as a critical mediator of metabolism. Beyond simple nutrient absorption, the gut microbiome influences hormone production, inflammation markers, and even neurotransmitter synthesis. Recent research demonstrates that microbiome composition can significantly impact both fat storage patterns and metabolic rate.

Understanding this hierarchical organization explains why identical caloric interventions can produce dramatically different results in different individuals on their weight loss journey. It also reveals why the most effective weight loss protocols must address multiple levels of this metabolic hierarchy simultaneously.

The weight loss strategies examined in subsequent sections leverage these biological systems through distinct but complementary mechanisms. Their efficacy stems not from forcing unnatural restrictions, but from restoring and optimizing the body’s innate regulatory processes.

Protocol 1: Strategic Temperature Exposure

The application of thermal stress represents one of the most direct mechanisms for upregulating metabolic rate and improving body composition. While often oversimplified in popular media as “cold therapy,” the strategic manipulation of temperature exposure operates through multiple physiological pathways.

Cold exposure primarily acts through two mechanisms. First, it stimulates the conversion of white adipose tissue to metabolically active brown fat through a process called browning1. This transformed tissue significantly increases basal metabolic rate through uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) activation. Second, cold exposure triggers a hormetic response, promoting mitochondrial biogenesis and cellular energy efficiency2.

The research indicates three distinct protocols, each with varying levels of efficacy:

  • Acute cold exposure (10-15 minutes at 55-60°F water or 30-40 minutes at 60-65°F air) triggers an immediate metabolic response, potentially increasing energy expenditure by 250-300% during exposure. However, these effects are transient.
  • Chronic mild cold exposure (2-3 hours daily at 62-65°F) appears to produce more sustainable adaptations, including increased brown fat volume and enhanced insulin sensitivity. Studies show this protocol can increase basal metabolic rate by 10-15% over 6-8 weeks.
  • Contrast therapy (alternating between heat exposure at 170-180°F for 15 minutes and cold exposure at 55-60°F for 3-5 minutes) may optimize both the metabolic and hormetic responses while improving recovery markers.

The metabolic benefits of temperature exposure appear to be dose-dependent but follow a U-shaped curve. Excessive exposure can trigger compensatory mechanisms that actually reduce metabolic rate. The key lies in finding the minimum effective dose that stimulates adaptation without overwhelming the system’s recovery capacity.

Implementation requires careful attention to individual factors including cold tolerance, cardiovascular health, and current metabolic status. As with any metabolic intervention, the protocol should be titrated based on objective markers and subjective response.

Protocol 2: Low-Intensity Metabolic Training

Despite widespread focus on high-intensity training for weight loss, research indicates that low-intensity, sustained exercise in the ‘Zone 2’ range may be more effective for optimizing fat oxidation and metabolic health. This protocol operates through distinct physiological pathways from higher-intensity training, primarily influencing mitochondrial density and substrate utilization.

Zone 2 training is defined by specific biochemical parameters: the highest intensity at which lactate production and clearance remain in equilibrium, typically occurring between 60-70% of maximum heart rate. This intensity creates a unique metabolic environment that promotes three key adaptations:

First, sustained Zone 2 activity increases mitochondrial density through PGC-1α activation3, which in turn improves the body’s capacity to oxidize fat. Unlike high-intensity exercise, which primarily drives mitochondrial power output, Zone 2 training optimizes mitochondrial efficiency and number.

Second, regular Zone 2 sessions improve metabolic flexibility by improving the body’s ability to switch between glucose and fat oxidation4. Research demonstrates Zone 2 training can increase fat oxidation rates during both exercise and rest.

Third, this intensity promotes capillary density and optimizes oxygen delivery to tissues, creating a more favorable environment for fat metabolism.

The protocol requires careful implementation:

  • Duration: 45-90 minutes per session
  • Frequency: 3-4 sessions weekly
  • Intensity: Maintained through either lactate monitoring (1.7-2.0 mmol/L) or the “talk test
  • Progression: Volume increases should precede intensity increases

Many individuals initially overestimate their Zone 2 intensity, inadvertently training at higher intensities that fail to produce the desired metabolic adaptations.

Protocol 3: Protein Timing and Leucine Thresholds

Preservation of lean tissue during weight loss represents a big metabolic challenge. Research demonstrates that protein timing and leucine thresholds serve as key regulatory signals, influencing both body composition and metabolic rate during caloric restriction.

Two primary mechanisms underpin this protocol’s efficacy:

First, absolute protein requirements increase during caloric restriction. While general population recommendations typically range from 0.8-1.0 g/kg/day, research indicates that consuming 1.2-2.4 g/kg/day during energy restriction optimizes body composition outcomes5. This higher protein intake appears to maintain lean tissue through both direct amino acid provision and enhanced metabolic signaling.

Second, the distribution pattern of protein intake proves as important as total consumption. Research demonstrates that reaching a leucine threshold of 2.8g per meal – approximately 30g of high-quality protein – optimizes muscle protein synthesis, particularly in older adults6. This threshold must be achieved multiple times throughout the day rather than concentrated in single meals.

Implementation requires attention to three factors:

  • Total protein target: Individualized based on body mass (1.2-2.4 g/kg/day)
  • Meal frequency: 3-4 evenly spaced feedings reaching the leucine threshold
  • Protein quality: Sources providing complete amino acid profiles

The evidence indicates that this balanced distribution approach produces superior 24-hour muscle protein synthesis compared to skewed protein intake patterns, even when total daily protein remains constant. This optimization of protein synthesis and preservation of metabolically active tissue provides a foundation for sustained weight management.

Protocol 4: Sleep Extenstion

Sleep duration emerges as a powerful metabolic regulator, extending beyond its traditionally understood recovery functions. Recent research demonstrates that sleep extension – the deliberate lengthening of sleep duration – produces quantifiable effects on energy intake and body composition regulation.

The metabolic impact of sleep extension operates through three key pathways:

First, increased sleep duration directly influences appetite regulation. Clinical research demonstrates that extending sleep by 1.2 hours per night reduces spontaneous energy intake by approximately 270 kcal/daily7. This reduction occurs without conscious caloric restriction, suggesting fundamental changes in appetite signaling.

Second, sleep extension appears to normalize hunger hormone profiles, particularly ghrelin and leptin rhythms. When sleep duration increases, these hormonal signals more accurately reflect true metabolic needs rather than fatigue-induced hunger.

Third, adequate sleep duration optimizes glucose regulation and insulin sensitivity8. This bolstered metabolic control appears to influence food choice and portion regulation independent of conscious decision-making.

Implementation focuses on three components:

  • Gradual extension: Progressive increase in sleep duration
  • Timing consistency: Regular sleep-wake schedules
  • Environmental optimization: Temperature, light, and noise control

The research indicates that consistent implementation of sleep extension protocols could serve as a cornerstone of obesity prevention and weight management strategies, providing metabolic benefits through relatively modest behavioral modifications.

Protocol 5: NAD+ Pathway Optimization

The nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) pathway represents a critical junction in cellular metabolism, influencing everything from mitochondrial function to circadian rhythm regulation. Research indicates that declining NAD+ levels correlate with both aging and metabolic dysfunction, suggesting a key role in weight management resistance.

Three fundamental mechanisms link NAD+ status to metabolic health:

First, NAD+ serves as an essential cofactor for sirtuins, particularly SIRT1 and SIRT3, which regulate mitochondrial function and fat oxidation. Research demonstrates that optimal NAD+ levels promote metabolic flexibility through improved mitochondrial efficiency9.

Second, NAD+ levels directly influence circadian metabolism through the CLOCK-BMAL1 pathway10. This interaction affects both glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism, with higher NAD+ levels associated with improved metabolic synchronization.

Third, NAD+ availability impacts cellular energy sensing through AMPK activation11, influencing both appetite regulation and fat storage patterns. Studies suggest that optimizing NAD+ levels can support weight loss by improving metabolic rate through more efficient energy utilization.

Implementation strategies include:

  • Exercise timing to maximize natural NAD+ production
  • Strategic sunlight exposure for circadian NAD+ regulation
  • Targeted supplementation with well-studied NAD precursor compounds

Recent studies highlight the effectiveness of precursor formulations that address multiple aspects of the NAD+ pathway12. The most compelling approaches combine direct NAD+ precursors (such as NMN and nicotinamide) with compounds that drive cellular energy metabolism.

The Best NAD+ Supplement: Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster reflects this evidence-based approach, integrating established precursor compounds with metabolic cofactors in clinically-relevant ratios. This formulation aligns with current understanding of NAD+ pathway optimization, supporting both production and utilization phases of cellular energy metabolism.

From Biochemistry to Sustainable Results

The five protocols examined here represent distinct but complementary approaches to metabolic optimization. Each leverages fundamental biological pathways – from thermal regulation to NAD+ metabolism – creating a comprehensive framework for sustainable weight management.

What emerges from this analysis is not simply a collection of techniques, but rather a systems-based approach to metabolic health. The effectiveness of these protocols stems from their ability to work synergistically, addressing multiple levels of metabolic regulation simultaneously:

Temperature exposure influences mitochondrial adaptation and brown fat activation. Low-intensity metabolic training optimizes substrate utilization and metabolic flexibility. Strategic protein timing preserves metabolically active tissue. Sleep extension regulates appetite signaling and hormonal cascades. NAD+ pathway optimization supports cellular energy systems that underpin all these adaptations.

The research demonstrates that sustainable weight management requires moving beyond simplistic caloric models to address the complex interplay of biological systems. These protocols provide a framework for doing exactly that – not through extreme interventions, but through strategic optimization of natural metabolic processes.

Implementation should begin with the protocols most aligned with individual circumstances and gradually expand to incorporate others as adaptation occurs. Success lies not in perfect execution of all protocols simultaneously, but in systematic integration guided by objective markers and individual response.

The future of weight management lies not in fighting our biology, but in understanding and optimizing it. These evidence-based protocols provide a roadmap for doing exactly that.

Referenced Sources

  1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32252102/ ↩︎
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18515721/ ↩︎
  3. https://journals.physiology.org/doi/full/10.1152/ajpendo.00755.2009?checkFormatAccess=true ↩︎
  4. https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/67/Supplement_1/753-P/58227/Improved-Metabolic-Flexibility-Postbreakfast-after ↩︎
  5. https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12970-017-0177-8 ↩︎
  6. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2024.1388986/full ↩︎
  7. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamainternalmedicine/fullarticle/2788694 ↩︎
  8. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521690X10000722?via%3Dihub ↩︎
  9. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00125-019-4831-3 ↩︎
  10. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1170803 ↩︎
  11. https://www.nature.com/articles/nature07813 ↩︎
  12. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006291X24001256 ↩︎

Understanding the Crucial Role of Cardiac Biomarkers in Heart Health

Cardiac biomarkers are vital in assessing heart health and diagnosing various cardiovascular conditions. These biomarkers are specific molecules or substances released into the bloodstream when the heart is damaged or under stress.

By measuring and analyzing the levels of these biomarkers, healthcare professionals can gain valuable insights into a patient’s heart function and overall cardiac health.

“Think about it: Heart disease and diabetes, which account for more deaths in the U.S. and worldwide than everything else combined, are completely preventable by making comprehensive lifestyle changes. Without drugs or surgery.” —Dean Ornish, MD

What are Cardiac Biomarkers?

Cardiac biomarkers are biological markers that can be measured in blood, urine, or other bodily fluids. These markers help healthcare providers assess the presence or severity of heart disease and monitor the effectiveness of treatments.

They provide valuable diagnostic information and are an important tool in caring for patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Defining Cardiac Biomarkers

Cardiac biomarkers are substances released into the bloodstream during heart muscle damage. They can be enzymes, proteins, hormones, or other molecules that indicate the heart’s health status. These biomarkers are often measured through blood tests and are used to diagnose heart conditions, predict prognosis, monitor treatment response, and guide therapeutic decision-making.

When heart muscle cells are injured or die, they release these biomarkers into the bloodstream. The presence and levels of these biomarkers can indicate the extent of heart damage and help healthcare providers determine the appropriate course of action.

For example, elevated levels of certain cardiac biomarkers may suggest a heart attack or heart failure, while decreasing levels may indicate that the heart is healing.

Different Types of Cardiac Biomarkers

There are several different types of cardiac biomarkers, each with its own unique characteristics and diagnostic value. Some commonly measured cardiac biomarkers include:

  • Troponin: Troponin1 is a protein that regulates the contraction of heart muscle cells. Elevated levels of troponin in the blood indicate heart muscle damage, such as a heart attack.

  • Creatine kinase (CK): CK is an enzyme that plays a role in energy production in cells. Increased levels of CK in the blood can indicate heart muscle damage.

  • B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP): BNP is a hormone that is released by the heart in response to increased pressure and stress. Elevated levels of BNP can indicate heart failure.

  • Myoglobin: Myoglobin is a protein found in heart and skeletal muscle cells. Increased levels of myoglobin in the blood can indicate muscle damage, including damage to the heart.

  • C-reactive protein (CRP): CRP is a marker of inflammation in the body. Elevated levels of CRP can indicate inflammation in the heart, which may be a sign of heart disease.

  • Pro-brain natriuretic peptide (proBNP): ProBNP is a precursor hormone to BNP. Elevated levels of proBNP can indicate heart failure.

  • High-sensitivity cardiac troponin (hs-cTn): This is a more sensitive version of the troponin test, allowing for the detection of smaller amounts of troponin in the blood. It is used to diagnose heart attacks and assess the severity of heart muscle damage.

Each biomarker provides different information about heart health and can be used in combination to achieve a more comprehensive assessment.

For example, troponin is highly specific to heart muscle damage, while BNP is more indicative of heart failure. By measuring multiple biomarkers, healthcare providers can gather a more complete picture of a patient’s cardiovascular health and make more informed treatment decisions.

The Connection Between Cardiac Biomarkers and Heart Health

Cardiac biomarkers serve as indicators of heart health and play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing various cardiovascular conditions. These biomarkers can provide valuable information regarding heart muscle damage, inflammation, and stress. By assessing the levels of specific cardiac biomarkers, healthcare professionals can gain insights into the presence, severity, and prognosis of heart disease.

In addition to their diagnostic value, cardiac biomarkers have become an essential tool in monitoring the effectiveness of treatment strategies. By regularly measuring these biomarkers, healthcare providers can track changes in their levels over time, allowing for adjustments in medication dosages or treatment plans as needed.

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How Cardiac Biomarkers Indicate Heart Health

Elevated levels of certain cardiac biomarkers, such as troponin, can indicate an increased risk of heart muscle damage or myocardial infarction (heart attack). These biomarkers are released into the bloodstream when there is injury or stress to the heart muscle. By measuring their levels, healthcare providers can determine the extent of cardiac damage and tailor appropriate treatment plans.

Another cardiac biomarker that provides valuable insights into heart health is C-reactive protein (CRP). Increased levels of CRP indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, including the blood vessels that supply the heart. Monitoring CRP levels can help healthcare professionals identify individuals at higher risk for cardiovascular diseases and implement preventive measures.

Furthermore, the measurement of cardiac troponin levels can be used not only for diagnosing heart attacks but also for risk stratification in patients with acute coronary syndromes. This allows healthcare providers to identify individuals who are at a higher risk of experiencing adverse cardiac events and provide them with more intensive monitoring and treatment.

The Role of Cardiac Biomarkers in Heart Disease

Cardiac biomarkers also play a critical role in diagnosing and managing heart diseases. For instance, elevated levels of B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) can indicate heart failure. This biomarker is released in response to stretching of heart muscle cells, which occurs in heart failure. By monitoring BNP levels, healthcare professionals can assess the severity of heart failure and adjust treatment strategies accordingly.

In recent years, cardiac biomarkers have been increasingly used to identify individuals at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, even before symptoms manifest. For example, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays can detect very low levels of troponin in the blood, allowing for early detection of myocardial injury and the initiation of preventive measures to reduce the risk of future cardiac events.

Moreover, the measurement of cardiac biomarkers such as brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) has proven to be valuable in the diagnosis and management of heart failure. These biomarkers are released in response to increased pressure and volume overload on the heart, providing healthcare professionals with important information about the severity of the condition and guiding treatment decisions.

In conclusion, cardiac biomarkers are essential tools in assessing heart health, diagnosing cardiovascular conditions, and managing heart diseases. By measuring the levels of specific biomarkers, healthcare professionals can gain valuable insights into the presence, severity, and prognosis of heart disease, allowing for personalized treatment plans and improved patient outcomes.

The Importance of Monitoring Cardiac Biomarkers

Regular monitoring of cardiac biomarkers is essential for individuals at risk of heart disease or those already diagnosed with cardiovascular conditions. It helps healthcare providers assess the effectiveness of treatments, measure disease progression, and determine the need for therapeutic interventions.

Regular Testing for Cardiac Biomarkers

Patients with known heart conditions often undergo regular testing to monitor their cardiac biomarker levels. These tests can help identify early signs of worsening heart function or detect potential complications. Healthcare professionals can adjust medications, initiate preventive measures, or recommend further diagnostic tests by detecting changes in biomarker levels.

In addition to troponin, other cardiac biomarkers that may be monitored include B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and creatine kinase-MB (CK-MB). BNP levels can indicate heart failure, while CK-MB levels can indicate damage to the heart muscle.

Regular testing for cardiac biomarkers is especially important for individuals with a history of heart disease or those who have recently undergone cardiac procedures, such as angioplasty2 or bypass surgery. These individuals are at a higher risk of complications, and monitoring their biomarker levels can help detect any issues early on.

Interpreting Cardiac Biomarker Levels

Interpreting cardiac biomarker levels requires a comprehensive understanding of the specific biomarkers being measured. Healthcare providers consider factors such as baseline levels, reference ranges, timing of measurements, and the clinical context to interpret the results accurately. Trends in biomarker levels over time are vital in assessing disease progression and treatment response.

For example, if a patient’s troponin levels have been steadily increasing over several tests, it may indicate ongoing damage to the heart muscle. This information can prompt healthcare providers to adjust medications, recommend lifestyle changes, or consider more aggressive treatment options.

It’s important to note that cardiac biomarker levels can also be influenced by factors other than heart disease. For instance, certain medications, kidney problems, or skeletal muscle injuries can affect the accuracy of the results. Therefore, healthcare providers must take these factors into account when interpreting biomarker levels.

In conclusion, regular monitoring of cardiac biomarkers is crucial for individuals at risk of heart disease or those already diagnosed with cardiovascular conditions. By tracking these biomarkers, healthcare professionals can gain valuable insights into the heart’s health and make informed decisions about patient care.

The Future of Cardiac Biomarkers in Heart Health

Ongoing research and advancements in technology hold promising potential for the future of cardiac biomarkers. Researchers continually investigate new biomarkers and refine existing tests to improve diagnosis, risk assessment, and treatment strategies for heart diseases.

Advances in Cardiac Biomarker Research

Research in the field of cardiac biomarkers aims to identify novel markers that can provide more accurate and specific information about cardiac health. The development of high-sensitivity cardiac troponin assays has greatly improved the precision and sensitivity of detecting heart muscle damage. In the future, advancements in genetic testing and proteomics may lead to the discovery of additional biomarkers that can further enhance heart disease diagnosis and management.

Potential New Uses for Cardiac Biomarkers in Heart Health Care

Cardiac biomarkers are not limited to diagnosing and managing existing heart conditions. They also have the potential to be used in preventive healthcare. By identifying individuals at high risk of developing heart disease based on their biomarker profiles, healthcare providers can intervene early with lifestyle modifications, medications, or other preventive measures to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cardiac biomarkers are critical tools in evaluating heart health and diagnosing cardiovascular conditions. The measurement and analysis of these biomarkers provide valuable insights into heart function, disease presence, and treatment response. As research continues to advance, cardiac biomarkers will undoubtedly play an increasingly important role in promoting heart health and improving patient outcomes. Click here to order a biomarker test to check your heart health. 

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future
  2. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD
  3. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 
  4. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAd+ precursor & Longevity

Referenced Sources:

  1. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22770-troponin-test ↩︎
  2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/angioplasty-and-stent-placement-for-the-heart ↩︎

3 Foods for Curing Pain and Inflammation

Pain and inflammation act as our bodies’ dynamic duo, stepping in for defense and repair. In the immediate aftermath of an injury or infection, pain signals serve as red flags, directing our attention to the site of trouble and urging caution. At the same time, inflammation mobilizes the immune system, dispatching cells and biochemical warriors to neutralize threats and initiate the healing process. 

But in the long-term, persistent inflammation can become a double-edged sword, damaging healthy tissues and contributing to the development of chronic conditions. The very mechanisms designed to protect us in the short run can, if left unchecked, turn into saboteurs, wreaking havoc on the body’s delicate balance, creating chronic illness and debilitating physical symptoms. 

In this blog, I’ll be covering the three foods that create pain and inflammation, three foods you can eat to rapidly decrease (and potentially eliminate it), and several bonus tools to integrate into your life that will help you heal from it and prevent it from occurring in the future. 

Let’s go. 

Three Foods That Decrease Inflammation 

Fish Oils 

Fish oils, renowned for their health benefits, are particularly esteemed for their remarkable ability to reduce inflammation in the body. Packed with omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA and DHA), fish oils exert potent anti-inflammatory effects at the cellular level. These fatty acids serve as precursors to specialized molecules called resolvins and proteins, which actively work to resolve inflammation and promote tissue repair. Additionally, they inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. 

Turmeric

Turmeric, renowned for its vibrant hue and distinctive flavor, packs a powerful punch when it comes to addressing inflammation. The secret weapon within turmeric is curcumin, a bioactive compound with potent anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin works by targeting multiple pathways at the molecular level, inhibiting the activity of inflammatory enzymes and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Its effectiveness is akin to a skilled conductor orchestrating a symphony of anti-inflammatory responses within the body. 

Studies have shown that curcumin’s impact rivals that of some anti-inflammatory drugs, sans the potential side effects. Incorporating turmeric into one’s diet or opting for curcumin supplements can be a flavorful and natural strategy to help quell inflammation, providing a holistic approach to promoting overall health and well-being.

NAD

NAD—the coenzyme we speak about so much—is a pivotal player in cellular energy production and wields a multifaceted influence on inflammatory processes. NAD’s role in supporting sirtuins is particularly noteworthy. NAD acts as a molecular maestro in over 500 cellular processes in the human body, healing run down metabolic systems and orchestrating an intricate dance that suppresses pro-inflammatory signals. NAD’s effect also extends to immune modulation, ensuring a balanced and controlled response to external threats and reducing your chances of chronic illness. 

Three Foods That Create Inflammation 

Alcohol 

Alcohol, a favorite social elixir, unfortunately wreaks havoc on various physiological systems, triggering an inflammatory response as the body attempts to cope with the assault. The liver, in particular, bears the brunt of alcohol metabolism, leading to the release of inflammatory chemicals and the formation of oxidative stress. This inflammatory cascade can extend beyond the liber, affecting other organs and tissues throughout the body. Alcohol also disrupts the balance of gut bacteria, contributing to intestinal inflammation that may exacerbate overall systemic inflammation. 

While an occasional toast might not be cause for concern, chronic and excessive alcohol consumption can turn the celebration into a symphony of inflammation, potentially leading to long-term health consequences. 

Sugar

Sugar, particularly in the form of refined carbohydrates, can set off a cascade of events that fuel inflammation in the human body. High sugar intake releases pro-inflammatory cytokines and activates inflamed pathways, contributing to a state of chronic inflammation. This inflammatory response permeates many physiological systems such as joints, organs and even the nervous system. 

Sugar consumption is also linked to insulin resistance, a condition that not only disrupts glucose metabolism, but also additionally exacerbates inflammation. 

Pasteurized Dairy 

The dairy pasteurization process involves heating milk to kill harmful bacteria but unfortunately also alters the structure of proteins and enzymes in the milk. For some people, especially those with lactose intolerance or dairy protein sensitivity, these changes trigger an inflammatory response. 

Additionally, pasteurized dairy lacks the beneficial enzymes and probiotics presented in raw varieties, which play a role in aiding digestion and maintaining gut health. 

The inflammatory potential of dairy varies from person to person, and while many individuals tolerate it well, some find relief from inflammation by exploring alternative sources of dairy or opting for fermented dairy products that may be less inflammatory and more digestible.

Three Tools to Reduce Inflammation: 

  • Infrared sauna
  • Cryotherapy 
  • Cold plunges
  • Egoscue1 (to reduce pain and help balance)— popularized by Tim Farris and also used by Tony Robbins 

For extra resources, see Josh Axe’s blog for anti-inflammation supplements.

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 
  2. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAD+ precursor & Longevity
  3. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future
  4. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD

Referenced Sources:

  1. https://egoscue.com/ ↩︎

Unraveling the Science Behind Bryan Johnson’s Pursuit to Reverse Aging

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the field of aging research and the possibility of reversing the effects of aging. One prominent figure at the forefront of this pursuit is Bryan Johnson, an entrepreneur and philanthropist who has dedicated significant resources to unraveling the science behind aging. This article will delve into Johnson’s motivations, the science of aging, his approach to reversing it, and the potential implications of such a breakthrough. It will also address the challenges and criticisms associated with this field of research.

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Understanding Bryan Johnson’s Motivation

Johnson’s passion for reversing aging stems from a deeply personal journey. Like many, he has witnessed the toll that aging takes on loved ones, both physically and mentally. This firsthand experience has fueled his desire to find a solution and improve the quality of life for individuals as they age.

Johnson firmly believes that aging should not be accepted as an inevitable part of life. He is driven by the conviction that we can slow down, halt, and even reverse the aging process with the right scientific advancements and interventions. But what led Johnson to this realization? How did he come to understand that aging is not an immutable process?

The Personal Journey Towards Reversing Aging

Johnson’s realization1 that aging is not an immutable process came after encountering scientific studies highlighting the potential for interventions to slow down or even reverse the aging process. This transformative discovery prompted him to dedicate his resources and efforts to aging research.

While exploring the scientific literature, Johnson stumbled upon groundbreaking studies that revealed the remarkable regenerative capabilities of certain organisms. He learned about the intricate mechanisms that allow these organisms to repair and rejuvenate their cells, effectively defying aging.

These findings ignited a spark within Johnson. He realized that if nature had already provided examples of organisms capable of reversing aging, then perhaps it was possible to replicate and harness these mechanisms for the benefit of human beings.

Driven by curiosity and a deep desire to make a difference, Johnson embarked on a journey of discovery. He sought out leading scientists, researchers, and experts in the field of aging to learn from their knowledge and insights. Through countless conversations and collaborations, he gained a comprehensive understanding of the biological processes underlying aging and the potential avenues for intervention.

The Role of Entrepreneurship in Aging Research

As an entrepreneur, Johnson believes in the power of innovation to drive progress. He recognizes that the aging process is a complex biological phenomenon, requiring multidisciplinary approaches to understand and address it fully. By exploring aging through an entrepreneurial lens, he aims to bring together experts from various fields to accelerate the development of breakthrough technologies.

Johnson understands that the pursuit of reversing aging requires not only scientific expertise but also a strategic and entrepreneurial mindset. He believes that by fostering collaboration between scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs, we can expedite the translation of scientific discoveries into practical solutions.

Johnson has established research initiatives and partnerships with leading institutions and organizations through his entrepreneurial endeavors. He has provided funding and resources to support innovative projects that aim to unravel the mysteries of aging and develop interventions that can extend human healthspan.

His entrepreneurial approach to aging research is rooted in the belief that combining scientific rigor with business acumen can create a future where aging is no longer a barrier to a fulfilling and vibrant life.

The Science of Aging: A Brief Overview

To comprehend Johnson’s pursuit, you must first grasp the underlying biological processes of aging. Aging is a multifaceted phenomenon involving many interconnected factors, including genetic, epigenetic, and environmental influences.

Understanding the science behind aging is crucial in unraveling the mysteries of this complex process. It is at the cellular and systemic levels that aging manifests its effects. At the cellular level, various factors contribute to the gradual decline in function and vitality. One such factor is accumulated DNA damage, which occurs over time due to exposure to environmental toxins, radiation, and normal metabolic processes. This damage can lead to mutations and impair the cell’s ability to function optimally.

Another cellular process that contributes to aging is telomere shortening. Telomeres are protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that gradually shorten with each cell division. As telomeres shorten, cells become more susceptible to DNA damage and eventually reach a point where they can no longer divide, leading to cellular senescence.

In addition to DNA damage and telomere shortening, mitochondrial dysfunction also plays a role in aging. Mitochondria are the cell’s powerhouses responsible for producing energy in the form of ATP. However, as you age, mitochondrial function declines, leading to decreased energy production and increased oxidative stress. This oxidative stress can further damage DNA and other cellular components, contributing to aging.

At the systemic level, aging involves the decline in organ function and the deterioration of the immune system. As you age, organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys gradually lose their ability to function optimally. This decline in organ function can lead to a variety of age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, respiratory disorders, and kidney failure.

The immune system also changes with age, a process known as immunosenescence. As the immune system weakens, older individuals become more susceptible to infections, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. This decline in immune function is attributed to a combination of factors, including changes in the composition of immune cells, decreased production of immune cells, and impaired immune response.

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The Current State of Aging Research

Aging research has made significant strides in recent years, uncovering potential interventions that may slow down or reverse the aging process. Scientists and researchers worldwide are dedicated to understanding aging mechanisms and developing strategies to promote healthy aging.

One area of research that has gained considerable attention is genetic manipulations. By studying the genes that regulate aging, scientists have identified specific genetic pathways that influence lifespan and healthspan. Manipulating these pathways in model organisms, such as worms, flies, and mice, has shown promising results in extending lifespan and delaying age-related diseases.

Another avenue of research is focused on pharmaceutical interventions. Scientists are exploring various compounds and drugs that can potentially target specific aging pathways and promote healthy aging. These interventions aim to mitigate the effects of age-related cellular and systemic damage, ultimately improving overall health and extending lifespan.

Furthermore, lifestyle factors such as diet2 and exercise have also been shown to influence the aging process. A healthy diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which contribute to aging. Regular physical activity has also been associated with improved cardiovascular health, increased muscle mass, and enhanced cognitive function in older adults.

In conclusion, the science of aging is a complex and fascinating field of study. By delving into the biological processes of aging at the cellular and systemic levels, researchers are gaining insights into the mechanisms that drive this natural phenomenon. With ongoing research and advancements in technology, scientists hope to unravel the secrets of aging and develop interventions that enable individuals to live longer, healthier lives.

Bryan Johnson’s Approach to Reversing Aging

Regarding reversing aging, Bryan Joh3nson has a unique approach that revolves around the intersection of technology and biology. He firmly believes that innovative technologies, such as neural interfaces, hold the key to unlocking the secrets of aging and developing effective interventions.

But what exactly does this intersection of technology and biology entail? 

The Intersection of Technology and Biology

Technological advancements have revolutionized the field of biology. With the advent of artificial intelligence and machine learning, scientists now have the tools to analyze biological data on an unprecedented scale. This allows them to unravel the aging process’s intricacies and identify potential intervention targets.

Researchers can delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying aging by utilizing these cutting-edge technologies. They can study the genetic factors contributing to aging and identify ways to manipulate them. This deeper understanding of the biology of aging opens up new avenues for developing interventions that can slow down or even reverse the aging process.

The Importance of Neural Interfaces

One of the key components of Bryan Johnson’s approach is the use of neural interfaces. These interfaces, which allow direct communication between the brain and external devices, hold immense promise in aging research.

Neural interfaces have already shown great potential in various fields, such as restoring movement to paralyzed individuals or helping people with neurodegenerative diseases regain their independence. But their potential goes beyond that.

By harnessing the power of neural interfaces, scientists hope to enhance cognitive functioning in aging individuals. During aging, cognitive decline becomes a common occurrence, affecting memory, attention, and overall mental sharpness. Neural interfaces could potentially help reverse or mitigate these age-related cognitive impairments.

Furthermore, neural interfaces could also play a crucial role in tackling neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s. The progressive loss of neurons and cognitive decline characterize these conditions. By establishing direct communication between the brain and external devices, neural interfaces could potentially slow down or even halt the progression of these devastating diseases.

In conclusion, Bryan Johnson’s approach to reversing aging is a fascinating blend of technology and biology. By leveraging technological advancements and exploring the potential of neural interfaces, he aims to unlock the secrets of aging and develop effective interventions. The intersection of technology and biology offers a promising path towards a future where aging is no longer an inevitable process but a condition that can be managed and even reversed.

The Potential Implications of Reversing Aging

The implications of reversing aging are far-reaching and have sparked lively debates within the scientific community and society at large.

Ethical Considerations and Debates

The prospect of extending the human lifespan raises ethical questions surrounding the distribution of resources, overpopulation concerns, and the potential impact on societal dynamics. Engaging in thoughtful discussions to address these ethical challenges and ensure equitable access to any potential breakthroughs is crucial.

The Future of Human Longevity

Reversing aging has the potential to redefine the concept of human longevity. It could enhance both the quantity and quality of years, allowing individuals to lead fulfilling lives for extended periods. It may also redefine traditional life stages and fundamentally impact healthcare, retirement, and societal structures.

The Challenges and Criticisms

While the pursuit of reversing aging holds immense promise, it is not without its challenges and critics.

The Skepticism Surrounding Anti-Aging Research

Some skeptics question the feasibility of reversing aging, arguing that the complexity of the aging process necessitates a more nuanced approach. They emphasize the need for continued research and caution against premature claims.

The Hurdles in Translating Science into Practice

Translating scientific discoveries into tangible interventions poses a significant challenge. The gap between laboratory findings and real-world applications is vast, requiring rigorous testing, regulatory approvals, and substantial investments. However, Johnson remains steadfast in his commitment to bridging this gap and transforming scientific breakthroughs into practical solutions.

In conclusion, Bryan Johnson’s pursuit to reverse aging can revolutionize one’s understanding of human longevity and transform how aging is approached. While many challenges and skeptics remain, Johnson’s dedication and multidisciplinary approach offer hope for a future where aging is no longer an inevitable decline but rather a reversible process. As the field continues to advance, it is crucial to maintain a robust dialogue and consider the ethical implications to ensure that any breakthroughs are utilized responsibly for the benefit of all. Begin your pursuit to reverse aging with the AgingSOS® Starter Panel to test your longevity biomarker panels. 

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 
  2. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAD+ precursor & Longevity
  3. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD
  4. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future

Reference Sources:

  1. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/bryanrjohnson_top-1-sleep-ranking-my-evening-routine-activity-7065045630649331712-rdO9 ↩︎
  2. https://medium.com/future-literacy/how-much-water-should-i-drink-552be7d300e5 ↩︎
  3. https://www.instagram.com/p/CvsS30NNj63/ ↩︎

What Does Peak Performance Aging Look Like? Is Cognitive Aging Really a Fact of Life?

Peak performance aging is a radical concept that throws a pie in the face of traditional aging. The traditional theory of aging is that there is little that we can do to stop the slide. 

We’ve all heard accepted-aging statements: “Well, there’s nothing you can do about it. I guess we’re just getting old.” “Can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” “Aches and pains are all part of getting old.” “Aging comes for us all.” 

One leading thinker, Steven Kotler, a noted expert in the field of peak performance begs to differ.

Aging is a fact of life, but old is all a mindset.”

A NY Times bestselling author, journalist and flow researcher, Kotler explains further about the myth of uncontrollable aging in his research and his recent book, Gnar Country: Growing Old, Staying Rad.

“Ageism is the most socially acceptable stereotype1 in the world,” he said. “But it has radical consequences.”  He further explains, aging is a mindset,”A proper mindset towards aging is also a growth mindset. If you have a fixed mindset around aging, everything about lifelong learning is going to be worthless.”

When psychologist Mihaly Cskiszentmihalyi coined the term Flow in the 70s to explain the peak performance zone he discovered people could tap into, he discovered a unique psychological state like any other and inadvertently helped catalyze the positive psychology movement. 

When it comes to aging, the latest research indicates that not only is regularly activating flow state a key factor in long-term life satisfaction, it is also neuro-protective against cognitive decline (see George Valliant’s research at Harvard-citations will be on our blog). 

You may be wondering what all this may have to do with Jinfiniti, and we’ll get to that in a second. 

But first, here are a few things that happen when your body is in Flow State: 

  1. All six positive neurochemical cocktails are released.
  2. Life satisfaction goes up. 
  3. Cognitive decline slows and even reverses. 

The long slow route theory of aging states that skills decline as you age, therefore cognitive decline is inevitable. But new research that supports peak performance aging flys in the face of that with practical guidance on how to achieve peak performance aging. 

To avoid cognitive decline, the research says that you need to:  

  1. Solve the crisis of identity by the time you’re 30.

  2. Have match/fit quality by the time you’re in your 40s.

  3. In your 50s, you need to combat two things:

    1. Risk aversion. If you are risk averse, you are fearful which releases norephedrine, which then blocks . You need challenging, creative social experiences and should remain open, curious and explorative. 

    2. Physical fragility. According to Kotler, you do this through “challenging social activities that involve deliberate dynamic play in novel outdoor environments.” To protect against cognitive decline, you need neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons. You have 700 new neurons being made daily, with the majority of them being made in the hippocampus. 

So why is this important? In the hippocampus, your brain remembers novel outdoor experience as that is what your brain has been trained to do for thousands of years. 

What does a positive, even a growth mindset around aging look like?

Six neurochemical cocktails released in flow:

1. DOPAMINE

Drives desire, excitement, enthusiasm, sexual desire, curiosity, to test your limits

2. NOREPINEPHRINE

Brain’s version of adrenaline. Produces a huge increase in energy and alertness. When you’re obsessed with an idea, can’t stop thinking about the person you just met, then it’s activated

3. OXYTOCIN

Produces love, trust, friendship. It’s pro social. Underpins everything from long term bliss to cooperative businesses and relationships.

4. SEROTONIN

Calming, peaceful. Gives a mood lift. Shows up post meal with the desire to take a nap. Important for satisfaction and contentment

5 & 6. ENDORPHINS & ANANDAMIDE

Heavy duty stress & pain relievers. Replaces the weight of the day with euphoric happiness.

Kotler identifies five categories of functional fitness that need to be trained2 and maintained: strength, stamina, agility, balance and flexibility.

“These are all use it or lose it skills, if we want to retain our physical abilities late in life3,” he said.

He noted a study about aging conducted by Yale professor Becca Levy4 that proved there was a significant correlation in how people thought about aging and viewed themselves when exposed to negative stereotypes.

“This could be people saying, ‘You’re too old for this s- -t,’ or you telling yourself ‘You’re too old for this s- -t,’” he explained. “By the time they were 60, we see a 30% greater memory decline in people who have been exposed to negative stereotypes around aging. Literally, we’re killing each other with these ideas.”

So here’s how peak performance aging ties into what we’re about at Jinfiniti:

If you are suffering in one of the vital biomarkers that can precipitate and accelerate aging, then it dramatically diminishes your potential longevity and healthspan.

Just this week, I met a 35-year-old with significant health issues whom we may be able to help pre-empt by testing and more precisely diagnosing while also optimizing NAD levels, so it can happen at almost any age.

NAD deficiency affects your energy, which in turn, affects your drive and motivation to engage in peak-performance, anti-aging related activities. The sooner you start ensuring your NAD is optimized, the sooner you throttle back aging, thereby extending your healthspan immediately. 

If you happen to be 50+ years old, your NAD levels are likely not optimal unless you’ve been taking our Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster for quite some time. According to extensive research, the average healthy 50-year-old has already lost 50% of their NAD levels. 

Here at Jinfiniti, our flagship NAD supplement, the Accuri® Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, is a patent-pending formulation that has been extensively tested in clinical studies by  hundreds of clinics and by thousands of consumers. It allows optimization of NAD in approximately 90% of users, a figure incomparable to any other NAD supplementation on the market. 

No other molecule comes close to helping your cells function optimally as much as NAD. 

This means that pain, inflammation, fatigue, brain function (obstacles to Flow State & peak performance aging) all decrease while mental clarity, stamina, recovery, energy, and youthfulness (ingredients of Flow State) all increase when NAD is optimized.

Hence why NAD optimization plays an inextricable link in achieving peak performance aging at the molecular level.

Whether you’re a pro athlete or you’re working in the corporate world, building a business, or raising a family, taking care of your cellular vitality is paramount to how you feel, how you perform but also how and whether or not you age.

That’s why NAD is  arguably the foundational molecule for all of life. Plus, if you are over 40 years old your NAD levels are essentially guaranteed to be deficient. So get one of our NAD tests and a bottle of Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster to tune up your NAD levels. Better, yet, our NAD starter kit is a terrific value as it’s 2 tests and 2 Vitality ↑® NAD+ Boosters, so within two months we can verify that your NAD levels are up to optimal levels.

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAD+ precursor & Longevity
  2. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 
  3. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD
  4. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future

Citations:

Referenced Sources:

  1. https://nypost.com/2023/02/20/im-63-but-have-a-biological-age-of-43-heres-how-i-do-it/ ↩︎
  2. https://nypost.com/2017/01/19/you-office-job-is-literally-aging-you/ ↩︎
  3. https://nypost.com/2022/03/02/aging-faster-in-adulthood-linked-to-health-conditions-in-adolescence/ ↩︎
  4. https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/harmful-effects-of-ageism-on-older-persons-health-found-in-45-countries/ ↩︎

Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD+, NR, and Longevity

Recently, Stanford neuroscientist Dr. Andrew Huberman (who has one of the top health podcasts in the world) did a 16-minute Q&A segment on NAD and its precursors. 

Overall, I respect his commitment to scientific accuracy and his standard of excellence with his approach.

However, I consider him under-informed and not a subject matter expert in this particular arena.

Here’s where Huberman is wrong about NAD+, NR, and longevity.


In this article, you’ll discover…

  • Why you should not trust Andrew Huberman’s opinion about NAD supplements and why his expertise may not fully cover the complexities of NAD research, potentially leading to overestimated benefits.
  • Discover why NAD IV treatments might not be as effective as Andrew Huberman suggests and how they could be draining your wallet without delivering the promised health benefits.
  • The only NAD supplement proven to boost levels by 200-300%, far exceeding the modest 20-40% increase seen with other NAD products.

Let’s start with where we agree with Dr. Huberman:

  1. NAD provides a noticeable increase in energy: Dr. Huberman takes NAD+ precursor daily because of the very noticeable improvement in energy. In his words, “It gives me a lot of sustainable physical and mental energy throughout the day. I noticed a decrease in energy when I stopped taking NAD+ precursor. While I wasn’t totally depleted, my energy was noticeably lower. As a 48-year-old, having great energy is important to me.”

  2. We need more data and research. There are countless studies, tens of millions of dollars and many different types of clinical trials underway and completed. But because NAD shows enormous promise and potential, we can’t do enough research fast enough. Plus, it takes years for many trials and studies to be completed. 

However, there are a few important points where I disagree with Dr. Huberman. I believe he is seeing an incomplete picture with regards to NAD and its role in so many of our body’s systems. 

Here’s where we disagree: 

  1. Optimal Levels of NAD Increase Lifespan by Increasing Healthspan: While there haven’t been conclusive studies done on humans to demonstrate that NAD extends lifespan, you’d be hard-pressed to find any conclusive clinical trials and studies on any molecule or nutrient that slows aging.  Furthermore, the six root causes of aging that are central to long term health are all influenced, if not directly affected, by NAD. If your NAD levels are deficient, your metabolic function suffers significantly, which we know intensifies and accelerates your aging as well as your likelihood of disease. 
  1. Supplements are fundamental to optimal health: He claims that supplements are NOT fundamental to life/health, which is obviously wrong. Most of us are deficient in multiple nutrients for one reason or another and supplementation is an invaluable way to boost and support our health, improving our healthspan and thereby extending our lifespan.
  1. NAD+ precursor clearly elevates NAD levels (especially Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster): Huberman says he does not know if NAD+ precursor can elevate NAD.  He is ignoring all the publications and consumer data that NAD+ precursor can elevate NAD and the functional/clinical benefits. His statement is contradictory to his own experience that it gives him more energy with cellular energy being a fundamental aspect of good health. We see thousands of test results every year that conclusively demonstrate that your intracellular levels can be substantially increased, especially with our Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, of which no other supplement comes close to increasing NAD levels as effectively.
  1. NAD IV. There’s much that we don’t know about the effectiveness of intravenous NAD, but one thing we do know is that it has no measurable impact on raising the NAD levels in your blood. Within hours of getting an IV, your system has flushed out the NAD from your bloodstream. Huberman seems to believe that your NAD levels increase with NAD IV, which is not the case at least intracellularly though they do seem to increase in your plasma. Here’s a feature that RaisingNAD.com1 did on me where we discussed the research that indicates no perceptible impact to intracellular NAD though your cellular plasma NAD levels do seem to increase.

See our YouTube video this week comparing NAD IV vs. Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster.

Many people do notice an increase in energy and reduction in anxiety for a time period ranging from several days to several weeks after an IV, and we also agree that NAD IVs are a very expensive (and even painful) way to increase NAD

Dr. Huberman deserves a thumbs-up for his overall approach and standard of scientific rigor. As a fellow scientist, I have served as a Division Chief of Experimental Pathology and Director of Research and was the founding Director for Biotechnology and Genomic Medicine, as well as the director of two core research facilities in Genomics, Proteomics, and Mass Spectrometry.

As a genetics researcher for over 40+ years, I have reviewed thousands of intracellular NAD tests, authored over 400-peer reviewed papers with an H-index of 76 and over 20,000 citations, and secured over $100 million dollars in research grants.

Here at Jinfiniti, our flagship NAD supplement, the Accuri® Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, is a patent-pending formulation that has been extensively tested in clinical studies by hundreds of clinics and by thousands of consumers. It allows optimization of NAD in approximately 90% of users, a figure incomparable to any other NAD supplementation on the market. 

I strongly disagree with both Dr. Andrew Huberman’s assessment of NAD and its precursors. His understanding of NAD and its precursors is far less than what’s currently available. He hasn’t had the privilege of thousands of intracellular NAD tests. 

As someone who has a deep and integral knowledge of NAD and its precursors, I have a much more expansive data set and perspective when it comes to NAD and its role in our health. It is my primary area of focus. 

With regards to neuroscience, Huberman is the expert. But as far as genetics and NAD are concerned, that’s my field of expertise

Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster optimizes—not just improves—intracellular NAD for 90% of people alone, which no other NAD supplement can come close to promising.

While other brands increase NAD levels by 20-40% at best, we often see levels increase by 200-300% as we did with Doc Jen, a prominent doctor of physical therapy who loves the Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster. We back it with a 60-Day Money-Back and Efficacy Guarantee. That’s because we back up our Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster with testing, where all of the proof lies! 

I highly recommend testing your NAD levels to see where your levels are at and how much they need to be optimized. Jinfiniti’s intracellular NAD test is the only one of its kind in the world, and if you don’t already know where your levels are, it’s the best place to begin your optimization journey. 

Here are a few of our recent blog posts that you may be interested in reading regarding some of the science behind NAD, NAD precursors, and optimization leading to longevity: 

Lastly, as much as we know about NAD and its role in our health, there’s substantially more to be discovered, so I consider us very much in the early days of figuring out how to extend our lifespan. From the research and the experiential evidence I see every week with countless customers, NAD plays a vital role in extending our health span, life quality, and cellular vitality.

Referenced Sources:

  1. https://nadresearch.org/dr-she-describes-his-research-into-testing-and-supplementing-intracellular-nad-levels/ ↩︎
brain health

The Brain’s Powerful Weapon Against Fatigue, Addiction and Disease

Did you know that the brain’s most powerful weapon against fatigue, neurodegenerative diseases, mental health, and addiction is a coenzyme that you were born with?

Noted brain health expert, Dr. James Goodwin, the author of Supercharge Your Brain, was recently suffering with debilitating fatigue. He took our NAD test and, surprise, his NAD levels came in severely deficient. 

He shares his story here:

“Over the last year, I started experiencing really debilitating fatigue in the afternoon. About six months ago, I did the NAD test and got shockingly low results coming in deficient. I’m perfectly healthy. I don’t have any diagnosed medical conditions. I exercise regularly, I eat well, and I’m not overweight. 

I was so appalled and determined to start taking the supplements regularly. 

Two weeks into taking the NAD supplement, the fatigue disappeared. I was absolutely astonished. I’m not going to stop taking the supplements to see if the fatigue comes back. I’d recommend the Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster to anyone who needs extra energy.”

-Dr. James Goodwin, Director of Brain Health Network, London, UK.

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is essential to almost every cellular process in the human body. But with all the focus we put on our brain health (and how often we’re using that organ) you may be fascinated to know exactly what NAD is doing for your thinker. 

1. Enhanced Mental Clarity and Performance 

NAD for brain plays a key role in the health of brain cells, boosting the production of PGC-1-alpha, a protein that protects brain cells against mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress. Additionally, it acts as a neurotransmitter. Your brain is 3% of your body weight, but it uses 20% of your calories. Therefore, when your body is deficient in NAD, your brain is especially so.

Anecdotally, we have seen many clients experience significant reductions in brain fog and fatigue when they boost their NAD levels with our state-of-the-art, high performing Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster

2. Addiction Treatment (Recreational drugs including marijuana, alcohol, opioids & other drugs)

In early studies and data tracking, Springfield Wellness Center (the first NAD+ clinic in America) found that NAD+ has a nearly 400% better success rate than normal rehab clinics because NAD+ infusions help the brain chemistry heal while reducing or eliminating cravings for addictive substances. 

NAD+ IV coupled with NAC and other vital nutrients and minerals helps rewire neural pathways, detox and optimize your mitochondrial energy, and eliminate chemical cravings.

Participants in the study who began with very high cravings for drugs or alcohol still had essentially no cravings two years after the treatments. See NADResearch.org1 and the Cravings Study here2

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3. Depression, PTSD and Anxiety

When your brain experiences trauma, especially prolonged trauma such as PTSD or C-PTSD, it dramatically changes your brain structure. Since trauma is something that many of us have experienced and since we haven’t figured out how to time travel yet, how do we heal our brains and get back to good mental health? 

According to conventional medical understanding, depression has no cure. But in our opinion and armed with thousands of clinical studies, we believe that diseases and ailments conventional medicine have called lost causes actually have potential solutions. 

In our labs, we have seen many, many clients experience significant improvements in their mental health when their NAD levels are optimized. 

“For over 2 years, my mental health suffered. I battled high levels of anxiety, having panic attacks three times a week, I felt fatigued all the time and needed 400 mg of caffeine and 2 naps per day just to function. It felt like a single setback could slide me off the cliff.

Initially, I did a big round of NAD IV, which was $4000, but I was desperate. It gave me a lot of energy and mental lift, but it wasn’t sustainable. A few months later, I was feeling the same. And then I discovered Jinfiniti. My NAD levels were sorely deficient. 

Within several months of taking Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, my energy is much higher, my mental health and anxiety is so much better, and I’ve even lost some of the unwanted stubborn weight that wouldn’t go away. And my NAD levels are now optimal at 55.4 thanks to Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster.

My husband and I feel we have our lives back and I know Jinfinti’s been a huge part of that.”

-Sarah, one of our monthly subscribers of Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster.

4. Neurodegenerative Diseases Such as Alzheimers and Parkinson’s

Early research indicates that some of the most prominent neurodegenerative diseases can be effectively treated with NAD+. Brain chemistry and brain functioning—specifically metabolic deficiencies—are central problems with neurological diseases. 

Springfield Wellness center experts have treated many patients who have dementia or Parkinson’s, and when they receive NAD+ treatments, their symptoms often go into remission. Of course, the earlier the treatment begins, the better and quicker the results. 

**Unfortunately, there have not been enough clinical trials done to test NAD’s effects on neurodegenerative diseases to empirically state these. 

Yes, we are biased towards Jinfiniti’s Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, but that’s primarily because we’re biased towards documentable, scientific results and our Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster is the only NAD optimization supplement on the market. The others only increase NAD levels at best, we optimize NAD levels. 

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Other supplements that should be on your short list for brain health:

  • Vitamin D: plays a vital role in maintaining healthy cognitive function and deficiencies may accelerate aging. 

  • Creatine: The most important function of Creatine is that it serves as a battery or reserve to store ATP, which most people do not discuss. Additionally, it increases muscle mass and improves brain function

  • 1000 MG of EPA Fatty Acids: Healthy brain fats, especially EPA fatty oils (ideally 1000 mg per day for mental health and longevity). Dr. Andrew Huberman, the noted Stanford neuroscientist speaks candidly about how 1000 mg of EPA fatty acids have the equivalent effect of an anti-depressant for over 70% of people!

To additionally heal your brain and increase your mental health, avoid or minimize these neurotoxins (Yes, this is a bold claim, but they create so much brain dysfunction that they can safely be labeled such):  

  1. Conventionally fried foods
  2. Sugar and alcohol
  3. Processed foods

If you needed a quick reminder to restock on your Vitality ↑® NAD+ Booster, here it is! Don’t forget that our subscription option is always the best deal and will keep you from running out. 

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 
  2. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAD+ precursor & Longevity
  3. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD
  4. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future

Referenced Sources:

  1. http://nadresearch.org/ ↩︎
  2. https://nadresearch.org/brnad-reduces-cravings/ ↩︎
aging seniors

The Six Root Reasons of Aging

If you can slow your aging, can you delay disease? If you delay disease, can you can delay death?

“The loss of NAD as we age, and the resulting decline in sirtuin activity, is thought to be a primary reason our bodies develop diseases when we are old, but not when we are young.”

-Dr. David Sinclair, Harvard Medical School, Lifespan
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It’s the supposed, inevitable decline that will swallow each and every one of us. Or will it?

Have you ever noticed that some people display vastly different health statuses, sometimes even in the same family? 

Prominent researchers in the last few decades have come to cautiously agree to a rough consensus of aging hallmarks. While it is very debatable how many hallmarks there are, I believe that these six are the primary hallmarks of aging as the others can be traced back to these six core hallmarks in one form or another. 

The six core reasons of aging are as follows: 

1. NAD and Other Micronutrient Deficiencies

Since NAD arguably acts as the most important enzyme in your body and is such a foundational building block of nearly every cellular process, it’s vital to keep your NAD levels optimal to slow the tides of aging.

Unfortunately,  the average adult is heading towards a significant NAD deficiency by their early 40s. But thankfully, with our patent-pending Vitality boost, the most effective NAD-optimizing supplement ever developed, you can boost your NAD levels to optimal as fast as a couple weeks (did you see Doc Jen’s results?). 

2. Oxidative Stress and DNA Damage

When human cells experience oxidative stress, it’s the equivalent of a Roman army putting down its shields and turning their backs on the attackers as they attack.  Since your cells always have attackers swimming around in the bloodstream, when they let their guard down due to fatigue (hint: NAD deficiency is the primary cause of this) the DNA goes under attack.

When your cells are too tired to fight the invaders, they lose their DNA and aging accelerates, plus, cells with broken DNA that continue to multiply can form tumors.

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3. Glycation and Blood Sugar

When your levels of insulin resistance increase, it’s because your cells have experienced an overwhelming amount of glucose and fructose pulsating through your bloodstream. And when that happens, your cells begin to brown, like the sugar crumbles on top of creme brûlée.

This is a process called glycation.

In other words, you don’t want his happening to your cells. I don’t know about you, but burnt cells don’t sound very enticing to me. 

4. Chronic Inflammation

Foreign invaders (e.g., viruses and bacteria) damage cells directly, so our bodies have developed an inflammatory response, which recruits white blood cells to release toxins like oxygen radicals and cytokines (peptides with killing activity) to destroy the invaders.

Inflammatory responses are meant to be temporary, but unfortunately there are complications when you’re perpetually living in an inflamed state, like one the average American lives in.

Normal tissues can experience long term damage from an inflammatory response; your tissues can also be mistaken for a foreign invader (e.g. kidney disease), and a prolonged bad bacterial overgrowth in the gut can lead to breaks in the intestinal barrier (e.g. leaky gut). Inflammation is good in the short run, but awful for you in the long run.

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5. Cellular Senescence

When your cells don’t function properly, some of them have the potential to turn into what we like to call zombie cells. Zombie cells are old cells that refuse to die; but not only that, they also travel in your blood and damage healthy cells, spreading toxicity and inflammatory proteins.

If your body is functioning properly, it’s designed to get rid of zombie cells. If not, your disease chances and illness symptoms will only increase as you age. 

6. Metabolic Dysfunction

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide or NAD is central to the regulation of cellular energy production, but inadequate NAD levels can impede energy-producing pathways and result in reduced cellular energy production, contributing to conditions like metabolic syndrome.

And what is metabolic syndrome? Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions stemming from metabolic dysfunction and leading to heart disease. 

NAD deficiency can also disrupt the balance between anabolic and catabolic processes in the body, which leads to disturbances in body weight, insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. 

Lastly, NAD+ is intricately involved in maintaining mitochondrial function and cellular repair mechanisms.

Reduced NAD levels can impair mitochondrial respiration and increase oxidative stress, and oxidative damage and DNA mutations can further exacerbate metabolic dysfunction and increase the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity. 

If you, like us, are astounded at how interconnected all six of these causes of aging are, we strongly advocate for testing not just your NAD, but up to 23 biomarkers with our advanced panel, one of the most advanced biomarker tests available in the world. 

Lastly, if you’re interested in going deeper on health-related content, here are a few of our recent posts that you may want to read:

  1. 9 Powerful Benefits of Optimizing Your NAD
  2. Andrew Huberman is Wrong About NAD, NAD+ precursor & Longevity
  3. What Does Peak Performance Look Like? 
  4. Why Optimized, Precision Medicine is the Future

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