Metabolites: the small molecules that matter for longevity

Metabolites are small molecules produced during the chemical processes that happen in our bodies, and that are essential for cellular functions like energy production and storage, cellular communication and signaling, tissue repair, and the elimination of cellular waste (the latter is called “apoptosis”, it’s the regulated mechanism that allows our body to eliminate old, damaged, or unnecessary cells). They are both actors and markers in the functional biological mechanisms that drive health or dysfunction. Some metabolites are implicated in diseases like diabetes, or cancerous disorders, other have beneficial health effects. 

Human studies usually classify metabolites as endogenous or exogenous. Endogenous metabolites are produced by our organism or by our microbiome, and they comprise amino acids (useful for building proteins that repair and grow tissues), organic acids, lipids, short peptides, nucleic acids, or sugars (useful for providing energy for our cells).  

Exogenous metabolites originate from outside the organism, and comprise nutrients such as essential amino acids vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and phytochemicals. 

 

 

They also include other small molecules that are included under the umbrella term of the “exposome” (external sources), such as food additives, drugs, cosmetic chemicals, and pollutants. These represent harmful compounds for your health. To minimize exposure, implement healthy lifestyle strategies, and make conscious dietary choices such as eating organic produce, consuming liver-friendly foods like leafy greens and antioxidant-rich options, washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly, limiting processed foods. Carefully choose your personal care products and read labels to avoid harmful chemicals such as parabens and sulfates. Environmental factors also contribute to exposure. Reduce time in polluted areas, avoid plastic containers to limit intake of toxic substances.  

Fortunately, other metabolites have positive health effects. For example, the amino acid L-Arginine increases the survival of T-cells, and this survival is fundamental for adaptive immunity1. (L-Arginine is also valued by athletes, where better oxygenation has a great impact on performance, as it is known to promote blood circulation and thus the oxygen supply).  Likewise, supplementation with Taurine in laboratory studies was shown to increase healthspan2.  

Supplementation with Curcumin may influence various metabolic processes in the body once supplemented. It can help provide potent antioxidant protection from damaging free radicals on dynamics of cellular function. 

Another example: metabolites like Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) are crucial for maintaining healthy mitochondria, the powerhouses of the cell. Supplements containing CoQ10 may help sustain energy production and mitigate age-related decline. 

Metabolites are integral to the body’s functioning and influence many aspects of health and aging. Scientists have identified over 250,000 different metabolites. The ability to explain, analyze, and measure these metabolites highlights the incredible advancements and potential of modern science. 

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Learn more about the essential ingredients found in HOLISTIC HEALTH longevity supplements that aim to support or enhance metabolites’ functions to promote healthy aging and extend lifespan. For example, ENERGY features L-Arginine and Taurine, while AGE-DEFY includes Coenzyme Q10 and Cavacurmin® (a highly bioavailable curcumin complex that provides potent antioxidant protection against damaging free radicals, supporting cellular function).