Exploring NAD Pathway and Longevity

Aug 25, 2024

Huberman Lab Podcast with Dr. Peter Attia

Introduction

  • Host: Andrew Huberman, Professor of Neurobiology and Ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine.
  • Guest: Dr. Peter Attia, a medical doctor trained at Stanford University School of Medicine and Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.
  • Focus: NAD pathway and its potential in improving lifespan and health span.

Key Topics Discussed

NAD Pathway

  • Received attention as a potential target for improving lifespan.
  • Discussion on molecules in the pathway: NR, NMN, direct infusions, and oral intake of NAD.
  • Comparison of methods in terms of cell entry and efficacy for longevity and health span.

Supplementation and Regimens

  • Huberman and Attia discuss personal choices regarding the intake of NAD, NMN, or NR.
  • They cover their own supplement regimens related to enhancing health span and/or lifespan.

Framework for Longevity

  • Discussed approaches to longevity: dos and don'ts, caloric restriction, specific cellular pathways, and comprehensive approaches.
  • Importance of behavior: moving appropriately, eating right, knowing genetics.

Rapamycin and Its Role

  • Discussion on rapamycin as an immune modulator with potential geroprotective properties.
  • Attia's personal experience taking rapamycin and the research supporting its use for lifespan extension.

NAD, NR, and NMN

  • NR and NMN are precursors to NAD.
  • Debate on effectiveness: NR can cross cell membranes easily, NMN requires conversion.
  • NAD's role in energy production via mitochondrial pathways.

Experimental Evidence

  • Discussion of studies and experiments regarding lifespan extension using NAD-related molecules.
  • Interventions Testing Program (ITP) as a rigorous tool for testing lifespan interventions.

Supplementation Discussion

  • Huberman's personal observation on NMN effects (e.g., hair and nail growth, increased energy).
  • Attia's skepticism about the longevity benefits based on current data.

Biological Age vs. Chronological Age

  • Discussion on biological aging tests and their reliability.
  • Huberman’s perspective on using a life chart for tracking life and health metrics.

Closing Remarks

  • Supplements are generally seen as less critical than lifestyle factors like exercise, sleep, nutrition, and emotional health in determining lifespan and health span.
  • Final thoughts on the discretion necessary for supplement choices based on individual needs and current scientific evidence.

Conclusion

  • The podcast emphasizes the importance of scientific scrutiny and personal experience in making informed decisions about health supplements.
  • Next steps include potential further research and validation of the discussed supplements' effects on health span and lifespan.