Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB)

Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) is a type of ketone body that is produced in the liver during periods of low glucose availability, such as during fasting or a low-carbohydrate diet. BHB has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including potential anti-aging effects. In this article, we will explore the role of BHB in slowing the progression of aging and the major research findings supporting this claim.

Role of BHB in Anti-Aging:

Research has shown that BHB can increase lifespan and healthspan in a variety of organisms, including mice and fruit flies. In one study, researchers found that feeding mice a ketogenic diet (which increases BHB levels) increased their average lifespan by 13%. Another study found that BHB administration in fruit flies extended their lifespan by up to 20%.

BHB has also been shown to have other anti-aging effects, such as reducing inflammation, improving mitochondrial function, and promoting autophagy (the process by which cells remove damaged or unnecessary components). These effects are important because they are thought to contribute to the aging process.

Methods to Increase BHB Levels:

There are several methods to increase BHB levels, including fasting, following a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet, and taking exogenous ketone supplements. Exogenous ketones are supplements that contain BHB and can increase blood ketone levels even in individuals who are not following a ketogenic diet.

Researchers are also exploring the potential of drugs that can increase BHB levels as a means of promoting health and extending lifespan. One such drug is metformin, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes that has been shown to increase BHB levels and potentially have anti-aging effects.

Removing Senescent Cells:

Senescent cells are cells that have stopped dividing and are no longer functioning properly. These cells can contribute to age-related diseases and the aging process itself. Researchers are exploring the potential of using BHB to remove senescent cells. In one study, researchers found that BHB can induce the removal of senescent cells in human cell cultures.

Conclusion:

BHB is a ketone body that is produced during periods of low glucose availability and has been shown to have anti-aging effects. It can increase lifespan and healthspan in various organisms, reduce inflammation, improve mitochondrial function, and promote autophagy. BHB levels can be increased through fasting, following a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet, taking exogenous ketone supplements, and potentially through medication such as metformin. Researchers are also exploring the potential of using BHB to remove senescent cells, which can contribute to the aging process. By understanding the potential of BHB, individuals may be able to take steps towards promoting healthy aging.

Amazon Affiliate Links:

For those interested in trying a ketogenic diet, these products may be helpful: