This is The Juice, the place where everything longevity finds a home. Science, stories, laughs and stacks more

Today’s goodness will be:

• To age or not to age….we now have a choice

• Bryan Johnson’s latest controversial treatment

• Today in the Apothecary: Metformin

• Today’s confusion: APOB (Apolipoprotein B)

• In the hood: Alisha from Chicago

• When is it Too Late to Start Longevity

• Science news

To age or not…..Do we have a choice?

"A Scientific Revolution: Defying Aging with Longevity Breakthroughs"

In a time where science is rewriting the rules, this inaugural issue of our Longevity Revolution newsletter is your passport to a new frontier — a realm where advancements in scientific understanding are challenging the conventional narrative of aging. Buckle up as we dissect the current state of aging, guided by the hallmarks that have long defined our path, and explore how disruptive science, as illustrated in the accompanying graph, is ushering in a new world of hope and possibility.

1. The Aging Landscape: Hallmarks Unveiled: Take a moment to observe the aging landscape around us, as depicted in the graph above. The hallmarks of aging, intricately woven into our biological fabric, tell a story of a journey that has, until now, been seen as inevitable. From stem cell exhaustion to chronic inflammation, these hallmarks have served as signposts on a well-trodden path.

2. The Status Quo: Aging, Disease, and the Inevitable Decline: The prevailing narrative tells us that aging is synonymous with decline — a process leading to age-related diseases and, ultimately, an acceptance of mortality and disability. It's a story we've grown accustomed to, a script that science is now daring to revise.

3. Disrupting Old Paradigms: The Longevity Movement in the Age of Science: What propels you to read these words is more than mere curiosity. It's a recognition that science is transforming the narrative. The Longevity Movement is not a flight of fancy; it's grounded in the advancements of science — a movement challenging traditional beliefs and ushering in a new world of hope.

4. A Scientific Frontier: Unlocking the Mechanisms of Aging: Dive deeper, and you'll discover that hope is not just wishful thinking. Scientific breakthroughs are unlocking the mechanisms of aging, as graphically represented, deciphering how environmental factors contribute to the hallmarks that, in turn, lead to age-related diseases and, ultimately, death.

5. Living Long, Aging Better: The Power of Scientific Progress: The heart of the Longevity Movement lies in the advancements of science. It's not about wishful thinking; it's about understanding how environmental factors contribute to the hallmarks of aging, and how disrupting these processes can redefine the aging trajectory.

Conclusion: As you delve into the articles within, bear in mind that you are not just a reader; you are an active participant in a scientific revolution, as graphically depicted. The path ahead is not merely illuminated by hope but by the tangible results of scientific progress. Together, armed with knowledge, we navigate the frontier where living long and ageing better is not just a concept — it's a reality shaped by the remarkable strides of science. Welcome to the Scientific Revolution of Longevity!

Our favorite billionaire longevity guinea pig Bryan Johnson has been busy this week.

Forget Cryogenics, the latest craze in anti aging is officially Rhinoceros Re-birthing and Bryan is not sparing a moment to get involved.

Check out this video of Bryan in Africa this week

 Metformin

Metformin, a commonly prescribed medication for type 2 diabetes and is a hot topic in the world of anti-aging. It’s reported that the likes of Bryan Johnson, David Sinclair, Peter Thiel and Peter Attia amongst others guru’s in the longevity community have taken metformin for its potential benefits beyond glycemic control. The interest in metformin for anti-aging is primarily based on several factors:

1. Caloric Restriction Mimic: Metformin is believed to mimic some of the effects of caloric restriction, a dietary approach known to extend lifespan in various organisms.

2. AMPK Activation: Metformin activates an enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), which is associated with cellular energy regulation. AMPK activation is linked to potential anti-aging effects.

3. Inflammation Reduction: Metformin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, and chronic inflammation is associated with aging and age-related diseases.

4. Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that metformin may have a protective effect against certain types of cancer, and cancer risk increases with age.

5. Cardiovascular Benefits: Metformin is known to have cardiovascular benefits, and cardiovascular health is a crucial factor in overall longevity.

6. Mitochondrial Benefits: Metformin may impact mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the cellular organelles responsible for energy production. By influencing mitochondrial function, metformin could enhance cellular energy efficiency and resilience.

7. Glucose Regulation: Metformin primarily works by reducing glucose production in the liver and improving insulin sensitivity in peripheral tissues. By optimizing glucose metabolism, it indirectly affects energy balance and utilization.

8. Inhibition of mTOR: Metformin might inhibit the activity of the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), a cellular signaling pathway associated with growth and metabolism. mTOR inhibition is linked to the anti-aging effects observed with caloric restriction.

Metformin apparently works by reducing the absorption of glucose from the digestive system into the bloodstream. By doing so, it helps attenuate the rapid rise in blood sugar levels that often follows the ingestion of sugary foods.

Should you have metformin in your supplement stack?

Certainly if you are diabetic or even pre diabetic it is worth considering, if you believe that caloric restriction is fundamental for longevity then it is probably worth discussing with your doctor. It’s very affordable and there are a lot of renowned science based experts taking it but remember there can be side effects and It's important to note that while there is intriguing preclinical and observational evidence supporting these potential benefits, more research is needed to establish metformin as a mainstream anti-aging intervention.

In The Hood - Stories from our community

Meet Alisha from Chicago

How old are you?

43

What is your death number (The ideal age you will die)

90 is my number

Can you share a specific turning point or realisation that motivated you to prioritise your health and well-being?

I always thought I looked after myself, in fact my friends always talk about how I was the healthy one in the group, but a year ago I had some blood work done and found out I was in the high range of Pre-Diabetic and have very high cholesterol which shocked me and made me quite scared. I guess it made me realise I didn’t really understand my health after all and since then a lot has changed.

What are they greatest challenges you face to a long life

Since I have such high lipids and Pre-Diabetes my risk of heart disease is high and in addition my father has dementia and I now understand that my high lipids make me a greater risk for dementia.

What diet /style of eating works for you

Basically mediteranean, I eat very low carb, mostly vegetables, protein, fish, healthy fats, low GI grains, nuts, hemp and chia seeds.

What do you do for physical fitness

I try to do something everyday, either gym, swim or running.

Do you have a supplement stack

haha yeah I am a bit extreme and trying a lot of things

Spermidine
ALA - ALPHA LIPOIC ACID
NMN
Collagen peptide.
Fish oil - DHA 1.5g and EPA 2g
Vitamin d/k2.
Cacao flavanols from raw
Broccoli leaf powder (sulphorafane)
Moringa leaf powder
Metformin
Protein powder organic grass fed
Magnesium citrate
Magnesium Threonate
Creatine
Glutathione
N-Acetyl-L - Cysteine
Spirulina

What other things do you do for longevity

Ice baths 3-4 times per week, sauna 2-3 times per week. I try to get a minimum of 8 hours sleep per night and reduce my stress. I also wear a CGM (continuous glucose monitor).

What has had the biggest impact on your longevity to date

Intermittent fasting. Along with dietary changes it has helped reduce my HbA1c to a healthy level so I am no longer Pre-Diabetic. IF just seems so right for me, I now have a much better relationship to food and rarely have cravings, it has been so much easier to eat well and also made a big difference to my weight, my concentration and my sleep.

What role does mental health play in your overall approach to longevity, and how do you prioritize it?

I know I should do more like meditating type practices but I am not very good at making the time. I feel like it is much harder these days with all the distractions of the digital world and need to make it more of a priority which I will in time

How do you balance the social aspects of life, such as relationships and socializing, with your longevity goals?

I stopped drinking alcohol a year ago and combined with the new eating habits it has made it a bit more challenging so I socialise less, but I love food and never want to restrict myself from having a great meal with friends or indulging in carbs if I am in Italy etc. Because I do the right thing 99 percent of the time it feels ok to indulge from time to time.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their journey toward a longer and healthier life?

Knowledge is the key, do the tests and find out really where your health is at rather than waiting for something bad to happen and then treating it which seems to be the standard in the medical world. I have learnt we can either be doing things that deteriorate our health or things that are beneficial and it’s important to not only understand what is not good but to do the things that scientifically are proven to be beneficial.

Today’s confusion comes from….

APOB (Apolipoprotein B)

What is APOB?

APOB is a protein involved in lipid metabolism and is a crucial component of lipoproteins, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein).

• Function: APOB plays a central role in the transport of cholesterol and triglycerides in the bloodstream. It acts as a ligand for LDL receptors, facilitating the uptake of LDL by cells.

• Clinical Significance: Measurement of APOB levels is used as an indicator of cardiovascular risk. Elevated APOB levels are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.

• Genetic Variants: Genetic variations in the APOB gene can impact lipid metabolism and contribute to conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia.

• Therapeutic Targets: APOB is a target for interventions aimed at reducing LDL cholesterol levels, a key strategy in managing cardiovascular risk.

A high level of apolipoprotein B (APOB) in the blood is generally associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. APOB is a protein that plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism and is a major component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, often referred to as "bad cholesterol."

Elevated APOB levels are often indicative of high levels of LDL cholesterol in the bloodstream. High LDL cholesterol is a well-established risk factor for atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

In clinical settings, APOB is sometimes measured as part of lipid profile tests to assess cardiovascular risk. It's important to note that while cholesterol levels and APOB can provide valuable information about cardiovascular health, they are just one part of a comprehensive risk assessment. Other factors, such as high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and lifestyle factors, also contribute to overall cardiovascular risk.

If you have concerns about your APOB levels or cardiovascular health, it's recommended to discuss the results with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance, recommend lifestyle modifications, or prescribe medications if necessary to manage and reduce your cardiovascular risk.

When is it Too Late to Start Longevity? Unlocking the Secrets of Ageing Well

Introduction: In the journey of life, the choices we make along the way significantly impact our later years. The age-old question lingers: when is it too late to start on the path of longevity? The answer, as it turns out, lies not just in the quantity of years but in the quality of life we live. Let's explore why the earlier we embark on the journey to optimal health, the easier it becomes to reverse the toll of time.

The Younger Advantage: Consider two individuals at the crossroads of life: one, aged 40, who's embraced a life of conscious well-being, and the other, who's neglected self-care, now grappling with weight issues and potential metabolic concerns. The former has a head start on the path to repair and rejuvenation, a canvas primed for the art of aging well.

Transformation at Any Age: Contrary to the belief that certain afflictions are inevitable with age, studies and examples abound, showcasing remarkable transformations in older individuals. From overcoming sarcopenia to embracing mobility exercises, the potential for positive change knows no age limits.

Quality Over Quantity: The enigma lies in prioritizing the quality of life over mere longevity. What good is a lengthy life if spent bedridden, in pain, and unable to savor its joys? The essence of aging well lies in maintaining vitality, resilience, and the ability to relish every moment.

The Mind-Body Connection and the Longevity Mindset: In unraveling the mysteries of longevity, the interplay between mind and body takes center stage. Stress management and fostering a positive mindset become pivotal, steering the course towards optimal well-being. A simple yet potent practice like 15 minutes of daily meditation emerges as a transformative tool, sculpting the mind to gracefully navigate life's challenges.

This mental discipline extends its influence to neurological health, where meditation's profound effects on neurodegenerative disorders come to light. Scientific studies underscore its potential in enhancing cognitive function, offering a beacon of hope for those traversing the intricate terrain of aging.

The Longevity Mindset propels us beyond societal norms, urging us to break free from stereotypes and embrace unconventional practices. While the raised eyebrows may accompany ice baths and intermittent fasting at 70, the pursuit of longevity champions individuality over conformity.

Jaqueline's Journey: Allow me to reintroduce Jaqueline, a resilient 75-year-old whose inspiring journey unfolds in the present, filled with newfound strength and vitality.

After losing her husband, Jaqueline found herself resigned to a sedentary life, battling overweight and diabetes. Her mobility was limited, and simple tasks like getting up from the floor required assistance. However, a spark ignited within her to reclaim her life.

Jaqueline now starts each day with invigorating walks, each step a testament to her determination. As the miles accumulate, so does her courage. She joined a local gym, embracing resistance training to rebuild her strength. The results are transformative—Jaqueline, once reliant on help, can now rise from the floor independently.

Her commitment extends beyond the gym; Jaqueline rediscovered her passion for gardening, immersing herself in the therapeutic joy of tending to plants. The weight begins to shed, and her diabetes, once a constant concern, shows signs of reversal. Quality sleep returns, bringing a sense of well-being she hadn't felt since her 40s.

But Jaqueline's journey isn't merely about reclaiming the past; it's about embracing new beginnings. Her newfound strength allowed her to dream bigger. She rediscovered the thrill of overseas travel and now explores the world again.

Adding a touch of exhilaration to her routine, Jaqueline introduced ice baths—a ritual she describes as the most exciting adventure in years. The chilling plunge became a metaphor for her life—bold, invigorating, and filled with the thrill of the unknown.

At 75, Jaqueline isn't winding down; she's gearing up for a life she once thought was behind her. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering belief that it's never too late for a new beginning.

Conclusion: Jaqueline's journey encapsulates the essence of the longevity mindset—a philosophy that challenges preconceived notions about aging. It is a powerful reminder that the path to optimal well-being is not restricted by age but is open to those willing to embrace change, resilience, and a belief in the possibility of a new beginning.

So, when is it too late to start longevity? The resounding answer is - never. Whether at 30 or 70, the journey begins with a conscious choice. Longevity is not merely a timeline; it's a mindset, a commitment to living life to the fullest, defying norms, and embracing the art of aging well. It's never too late to embark on this transformative journey. After all, the most significant journey is the one within.

Jaqueline's story serves as an inspiration, illustrating that the pursuit of well-being is a continuous evolution. As we navigate the intricacies of aging, the amalgamation of physical resilience, mental fortitude, and an adventurous spirit creates a roadmap to a fulfilling and vibrant life. Each positive choice we make is a brushstroke on the canvas of our longevity, painting a picture of health, vitality, and the unwavering belief that the best is yet to come.

The latest juice

3 lessons from meeting over 1000 centenarions including not stressing about things out of their control!

Lab-grown 'small blood vessels' point to potential treatment for major cause of stroke and vascular dementia

Billionaire Peter Thiel’s antiaging routine which includes Metformin

Realistic talking faces created from only an audio clip and a person's photo which could be a powerful tool to help people with facial disabilities communicate better

Scientists 3D-print hair follicles in lab-grown skin which represents an important step in skin grafts

Let’s rap up today on a high note 🎵

Snoop Dog gives up weed…!

The 52 year old rapper announced on social that after much consideration he will be giving up smoke. Go Snoop!

Snoop says “After much consideration & conversation with my family, I’ve decided to give up smoke,” the rapper, whose real name is Calvin Broadus, told his 82.5 million followers on instagram

He says he would like us all to respect his privacy at this difficult time. 🥱 

And that folks is how the anti-aging journey begins……..one minute he’s a pot head and the next he’s posting half naked photos on the socials of him ice bathing and doing ayahuasca ceremony………..watch this space!

See you next week!