The hype around the longevity-effects of metformin has ebbed and flowed. A longer article by Dr. Peter Attia explores how to view metformin & longevity for healthy individuals. The conclusion: it is still unclear.
- For healthy adults, the current evidence does not support the use of metformin as an anti-aging intervention.
- Long-term use of metformin has a low risk profile and few side-effects, which means that for those seeking all possible methods to increase their lifespan, the combination of low risk and a small potential benefit might be sufficient to justify its use.
- One important concern, however, is metformin’s potential impact on exercise adaptation and strength development, especially considering the well-documented lifespan-benefits of physical activity.
At Executive Health we share the same view as Dr. Attia. We do not recommend metformin as a general longevity supplement for everyone. However, we do use it — often with very good results — for those who need to reduce blood sugar levels and cannot do so by diet alone. And of course that is longevity-promoting.
