Dr. David Sinclair: The Biology of Slowing & Reversing Aging | Huberman Lab Podcast #52

NAD & Sirtuins

The discussion on NAD and sirtuins highlights their crucial role in aging and longevity. David Sinclair explains that NAD levels decline with age, impacting the body's ability to maintain youthful defenses. He emphasizes the importance of NAD precursors like NMN and NR, which can significantly boost NAD levels and enhance sirtuin activity 1. Sinclair notes, "You want to do both. And that's what I do. I take a precursor to NAD called NMN, and the body uses that to make the NAD molecule in one step."

You want to do both. And that's what I do. I take a precursor to NAD called NMN, and the body uses that to make the NAD molecule in one step.

--- David Sinclair

Additionally, he shares that lifestyle factors like exercise and fasting can naturally boost sirtuin activity, further supporting longevity 2.

   

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is another key player in the longevity conversation. Sinclair discusses the challenges of obtaining sufficient resveratrol from diet alone, noting that supplements are necessary to achieve effective doses 3. He advises taking resveratrol with a fatty substance like olive oil to enhance absorption, sharing his personal protocol of mixing it with olive oil or yogurt 3.

You need to drink about 200 glasses a day.

--- David Sinclair

Andrew Huberman raises questions about artificial sweeteners and their impact on longevity pathways. Sinclair downplays the potential negative effects, suggesting that the risks are minimal compared to sugary alternatives 4.