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UK longevity research proves a diet and gut health intervention slowed biomarkers of ageing
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Background:
As we age, our bodies often face a “perfect storm” of declining strength, falling testosterone, increased oxidative stress, inappropriately high inflammation and a weakening immune system. These factors accelerate tissue breakdown and lower our physical and cognitive resilience.
Longevity research, aims to focus, not just living longer but stronger, without the burden of chronic disease and multiple medications – a term called “health span.” It is well established that dietary factors such as phytochemical rich foods and gut health can influence this rate of decline. What was not established, before this trial, was whether an intervention to boost these foods and support a healthy gut could slow these markers of longevity.
The study design:
This was a double blind randomised controlled trial approved by the UK national ethics committee and internationally registered. The study was conducted in one of the Cambridge University Network Hospitals.
Sponsorship:
We supplied the supplement free of charge to the trails Unit but had no influence on its design, analysis of the data and reporting of the results.
Methods:
208 men (average age 74 years) received a phytochemical rich supplement (PRS) containing fortified broccoli, green tea, pomegranate, ginger, cranberries and turmeric called YourPhyto. In addition, they were randomised to either a unique blend of 5-blend lactobacillus capsule called YourgutPlus or placebo for 4 months.
The trials design committee included the best exercise and longevity experts from around the World:
- Prof Robert Thomas, MD Uni of Beds, Addenbrooke’s & Bedford, Cambridge University Hospitals UK
- Prof Stacey Kenfield ScD, Depart of Urology, Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Uni of California, USA.
- Prof Robert U. Newton PhD, Head of Exercise Medicine, Edith Cowan University, Australia
- Dr Jeffrey Aldous PhD Institute of Sport Research, Uni of Bedfordshire, UK
Findings:
Both supplements were safe and well tolerated. By only 4 months ,important biomarkers of longevity were significantly improved by intake of 2 capsules a day. Formal, independently audited measurements in the participants included:
- Grip strength significantly improved before and after the intervention – better in the combined group
- Systemic inflammation improved before and after the intervention – better in the combined group
- Serum testosterone levels were significantly greater in the combined group at the end of the study
- Erectile function improved in all participants
- Urinary symptoms improved in all participants
Conclusions:
This was was one of the first well conducted scientific studies to show that boosting dietary phytochemicals was associated with an improved biomarkers of longevity (strength, testosterone and inflammation). These two supplements should be considered as a practical tool for longevity programmes and give hope to people looking to improve their “Healthspan” as they age
What this study also confirmed was that phytochemicals (found in colourful plants like pomegranate, turmeric, tea, cranberry and broccoli) and lactobacillus probiotics work in a “mutual synergy”: phytochemicals feed the good bacteria in our gut, while those bacteria help our bodies absorb the nutrients more effectively. By combining these powerful dietary elements, we can potentially repair joints, enhance mobility, and significantly improve the biological markers of ageing.
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Peer review publication of the research:
After independent external statistical analysisthis aspect of the paper was submitted to the Internationally acclaimed scientific Journal of longevity and ageing. The study results will be presented at this year longevity summit.