Jerusalem Post

ByWALLA! HEALTH

Anti-aging is not just a buzzword; it is a very extensive research field that generates a lot of money. Now, a small study published in Nature found that a supplement containing the molecule urolithin A may improve biological markers related to weakening of the immune system with age and to a chronic inflammatory process characteristic of aging.
Urolithin A is a bioactive compound produced in the gut after consuming certain foods – but only in about 40 percent of the population.
Despite the excitement, experts emphasize that the research is still in its early stages, and there is still no substitute for basic lifestyle habits such as exercise and good sleep.

Research in this field is still developing, but there is a surprising detail: This molecule can also be obtained from food.

Here’s what the researchers found – and how you can increase urolithin A levels through diet.
What did the study find?
It is important to note that the study and the nutritional supplements tested were funded by a biotech company that produces a postbiotic supplement called Mitopure, which contains urolithin A.

The study included 50 healthy middle-aged adults, who received either 1,000 mg of urolithin A or a placebo daily for four weeks. After 28 days, the supplement group showed changes in biological markers related to immune system weakening.
According to the lead researcher, Dr. Florian Greten, the molecule not only improves cell function but may also positively affect muscle performance. Separate early studies have indeed found potential for improving muscle health and performance. Dr. Greten emphasizes that the fact that changes were measured after just one month is “very encouraging.” According to him, it is still unclear whether lower doses would provide a similar effect.
What is urolithin A?
Urolithin A is a bioactive compound produced in the body when a specific type of polyphenols (ellagitannins and ellagic acid) are broken down by certain gut bacteria. According to the study, only about 40 percent of people have the gut bacteria composition required to efficiently produce the molecule. In other words, even if you consume the right foods, your body might not produce enough of it.
Currently, there is no public test to identify the bacteria responsible for producing the molecule, so it is difficult to know who benefits from the natural process and who does not.
Urolithin A supplements, on the other hand, are not dependent on gut bacteria composition and can therefore affect people who do not naturally produce the molecule. In any case, it is recommended to consult a doctor before taking any supplement.
Outside this study, other early research suggests that the molecule may support healthy aging by improving cellular energy production. Some small studies have even found improvements in muscle endurance and immune system function.Everyone wants to look and feel younger – which is why the anti-aging field has flourished in recent decades. So let us save you money and reveal a closely guarded secret that starts on your plate.

Which foods contain the molecule?
Most studies focus on the supplement itself, but there are foods that allow the body to naturally produce urolithin A. The compound is not present in large amounts in food, but the body produces it after consuming foods rich in precursor compounds.
These foods include:
• Pomegranate
• Walnuts
• Raspberries
• Blackberries
However, even if you eat the right foods, not every body produces urolithin A from them with the same efficiency.
What is important?
• A balanced diet rich in polyphenols
• Regular physical activity
• Quality sleep
• Stress management