For years, scientists have been looking for biomarkers that may suggest longevity. The number of centenarians (people who live at least to their 100^th birthday) has increased significantly and is expected to even quintuple between 2022 and 2050. Many factors play into longevity- genetics, lifestyle and even chance, but are there any common lab criteria we can use to help better predict longevity?

A Swedish study[1] recently published in Geroscience discovered a few of these potential biomarkers. This study was a 35-year follow-up on centenarians’ labwork. One of the first things that stands out is that of the 1224 participants that lived until their 100^th birthday- 84.6% was female! Of these participants, the researchers backtracked and looked at 35 years of lab work to determine any common trends.

The lab work that really stood out when these centenarians were compared to their non-centenarian peers are the following:

Lower levels of:

• Glucose
• Creatinine
• Uric Acid
• AST/ALT
• Alkaline Phosphatase
• LDH
• TIBC

High levels of:

• Iron
• Total Cholesterol

One common factor of the “low labs” is that they can be signs of inflammation- whether directly or indirectly. For example, uric acid tends to increase with gout, but is also a nonspecific marker of inflammation. We know inflammation is a key component to many chronic health diseases.

The total cholesterol being higher contradicts many studies that demonstrate high cholesterol increases cardiovascular risk. Another previous study has shown that that in elderly age (>80) perhaps having a higher cholesterol is more protective against mortality. [2] Also in this study it was demonstrated that the better ratio of good to bad cholesterol is still associated with low mortality even in the >80-year-old population.

As more studies and interest in longevity continue, we hope to develop clearer blueprints of what contributes to human longevity. In the meantime, the controllable factors we can all focus on are stress reduction, eating a high-nutrient, high-fiber, high-protein diet, cardiovascular exercise, strength training, and staying up to date on preventative health measures!

1.   Blood biomarker profiles and exceptional longevity: comparison of centenarians and non-centenarians in a 35-year follow-up of the Swedish AMORIS cohort – PubMed (nih.gov) Geroscience, 2023 Sept 19. Doi:10.1007/s11357-023-00936-2. Online ahead of print. Blood biomarker profiles and exceptional longevity: comparison of centenarians and non-centenarians in a 35-year follow-up of the Swedish AMORIS cohort. Shunsuke Murata¹², Marcus Ebeling³⁴, Anna C Meyer³, Katharina Schmidt-Mende⁵⁶, Niklas Hammar³, Karin Modig³
2. Ding, M., Wennberg, A., Ek, S. et al. The association of apolipoproteins with later-life all-cause and cardiovascular mortality: a population-based study stratified by age. Sci Rep 11, 24440 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-03959-5

What is Sermorelin?

Sermorelin is a synthetic peptide derived from a naturally occurring growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH). GHRH is responsible for stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and release growth hormone (GH). GH plays a crucial role in growth, metabolism, and overall health. However, GH production tends to decline as we age, leading to the physical and cognitive changes commonly associated with aging.

How Does Sermorelin Work?

Sermorelin works by stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and release more GH. It mimics the action of GHRH, effectively “telling” the pituitary gland to produce more growth hormone. This boost in GH levels can have a profound impact on various aspects of health and well-being.

The Potential Benefits of Sermorelin

1. Anti-Aging Effects: One of the most sought-after benefits of Sermorelin is its potential to slow down the aging process. Increased GH levels can lead to the regeneration of cells, improved muscle mass, and reduced fat accumulation, all of which contribute to a more youthful appearance and vitality.
2. Improved Skin Health: Sermorelin can help improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles, and promote a healthier complexion. This is achieved through increased collagen production, which is vital for maintaining youthful, supple skin.
3. Enhanced Metabolism: Higher GH levels can boost metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals struggling with age-related weight gain.
4. Increased Energy Levels: Many individuals who undergo Sermorelin therapy report increased energy levels, which can help combat the fatigue and lethargy often associated with aging.
5. Better Sleep: Sermorelin can enhance the quality of sleep. A restful night’s sleep is essential for overall well-being, and improved sleep patterns can lead to increased energy and cognitive function.
6. Mental Clarity and Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that Sermorelin may improve cognitive function, memory, and mental clarity. This can be a game-changer for those who wish to maintain a sharp mind as they age.
7. Muscle And Bone Growth and Strength: Sermorelin can help increase muscle mass and strength, making it a valuable tool for those looking to maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. It also contributes to bone strengthening.
8. Libido: Sermorelin can be a safe way to increase libido!

Sermorelin and Safety

Sermorelin is generally considered safe when administered under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Unlike synthetic growth hormone injections, which can come with potential risks and side effects, Sermorelin stimulates the body’s natural GH production. This reduces the likelihood of adverse effects while still providing many of the benefits associated with increased GH levels.

How do you take Sermorelin?

Sermorelin is best administered through a subcutaneous injection in the skin through a very small insulin needle at bedtime. It can be cycled on for about 3 months with a one month break. It can also be administered orally, though this route may not have as good an absorption rate.

Is Sermorelin Right for You?

Before considering Sermorelin therapy, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider who can assess your specific needs and determine if this treatment is suitable for you. Individuals with a history of certain medical conditions or those taking certain medications may not be ideal candidates for Sermorelin therapy. Additionally, the effectiveness of Sermorelin can vary from person to person, and results may take time to become noticeable.

In conclusion, Sermorelin offers a promising avenue for those seeking to combat the effects of aging and improve their overall quality of life. While it is not a guaranteed magical elixir, Sermorelin’s ability to naturally boost growth hormone levels has the potential to provide numerous benefits, from enhanced physical appearance to improved mental clarity and vitality. As with any medical treatment, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if Sermorelin is a suitable option for you.