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.