An Astragalus-based supplement taken daily for six months significantly increased telomere length in healthy middle-aged adults, suggesting measurable anti-ageing and longevity benefits without adverse effects.
September 2024 – Nutrients
Key takeaways
- Telomere lengthening confirmed: Daily use of the Astragalus-based supplement (ASTCOQ02) significantly increased both median and short telomere lengths in healthy adults aged around 56. The effect became statistically significant after three months and continued to improve by six months, suggesting the supplement meaningfully supports cellular longevity
- Fewer critically short telomeres: The percentage of very short telomeres (<3 kilobase pairs), which are closely associated with ageing and disease, decreased significantly in the supplement group. This reduction suggests improved genomic stability and a lower risk of cellular senescence—key markers of healthy ageing
- No adverse effects observed: All participants tolerated the supplement well, with no reported side effects or changes in vital signs, blood markers, or ECG results over the six-month period. This supports the supplement’s safety profile and suitability for long-term use in healthy individuals
- Potential for broader health benefits: Given the link between telomere length and conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cognitive decline, this supplement may offer protective effects beyond ageing alone. Its ingredients also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, further enhancing its potential impact on healthspan
Read the article at: de Jaeger, Christophe, et al. A Natural Astragalus-Based Nutritional Supplement Lengthens Telomeres in a Middle-Aged Population: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study. Nutrients, vol. 16, 2024, p. 2963. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16172963.