10 Best Supplements for Cell Regeneration 2023
So you’ve decided to try regenerative medicine and are excited about your new journey. Making that decision to receive treatments is a good start, but there are other decisions you need to make to increase its effectiveness. The one lifestyle choice we have in mind is altering your diet and taking supplements.
You need to be careful with supplements and health claims and especially stem cell supplements. Why? Generally, the process of creating a new supplement is pretty simple. You go online, find some studies that seem to fit what you’re looking for, create a master file, choose your ingredients, and you’re off. Meaning, no original lab or clinical research is performed.
For example, to create a stem cell supplement, you could focus on the different ways that stem cells get impacted by supplement ingredients, like proliferation. This means that the substance helps stem cells make more of themselves. You then choose from some the ingredients below and you’ve got a new supplement. However, is this really what’s desired? Do you want more stem cells? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? What other impacts do these supplements have on stem cells? All of this is largely unknown.
Protection from free radicals come from foods with oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). This includes phytonutrients, polyphenols, isoflavones, carotenoids and flavoides. They are responsible for the flavor, color, and smell of fruits and vegetables. So if you spot a dark colored or pigmented vegetable or fruit, it’s most likely phytonutrient rich! There are few substantial foods that have high ORAC values, like dark chocolate and acai berries, but those that contain the most are grains, herbs and spices:
Glucosamine, turmeric, quercetin, resveratrol, L-carnosine, L-arginine and leucine are just a few of the substances that can help to regenerate cells.
Glucosamine can for example help mesenchymal stem cells to generate cartilage cells (R). Glucosamine can also improve stem cell proliferation in the gut (R,R).
Chondroitin also has real measurable effects on knee cartilage in actual patients. In one study, it reduced cartilage volume loss on MRI after 6 months (R). Glucosamine also seemed to help cartilage quality when measured on a specialized MRI (R). In another study, glucosamine reduced cartilage breakdown products (R). Finally, when compared to prescription Celebrex, the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin were better at improving function and reducing cartilage breakdown in the knee (R).
In one study that used adipose MSCs to treat heart attacks, curcumin improved the viability of the cells, reduced scarring in the heart muscle being repaired, and promoted new blood vessel formation (R). In another involving bone marrow MSCs, curcumin improved bone formation (R).
The curcuminoids also impact arthritis through anti-inflammatory pathways and reducing inflammatory cytokines. All of these effects have translated into real measurable impacts on patients with knee arthritis (R). In other studies, Curcumin has been shown to be as effective as common NSAID anti-inflammatories such as Diclofenac (R).
The combination therapy of MSCs (mesenchymal stem cell) transplantation and resveratrol has also played a great therapeutic effect in animal models of diabetic complications (R, R, R).
Green Tea Extract is incredibly potent thanks to its high number of polyphenols, which have been shown to:
Blueberry powder is a powerful heat-sensitive antioxidant, shown to help DNA health. Additionally, this ingredient is shown to:
But ideally, vitamin C has help from alpha-ketoglutarate, given these two substances are substrates for important epigenetic enzymes, such as the TET enzymes (R).
NMN can improve and protect stem cells such as mesenchymal stem cells that form bone and fat tissue (R,R).
Glycine has shown to improve stem cell health (R,R). It can do this by protecting proteins in cells, or by inducing autophagy, which is the digestion of cellular waste.
1. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate contains flavanols that have biological properties. Researchers at the University of California recruited patients with coronary artery disease in a 30-day controlled trial. One group drank hot chocolate low in flavanols (only nine mg per serving) twice a day, and the other group drank hot chocolate high in flavanols (containing 375 mg per serving) twice a day. The results were surprising: the group with high-level flavanol had twice as many stem cells in their blood as that with low-level flavanol, and the former’s blood flow improved twice as much as the latter.
2. Black tea
A team of Italian researchers divided patients who had mild to moderate hypertension but did not receive medication into two groups. Group A drank plain black tea without sugar and milk twice a day while group B drank other beverages twice a day. One week later, blood tests showed the number of endothelial progenitor cells in the blood in the black-tea group rose by 56 percent, with an improved ability of blood vessel widening.
3. Olive oil
A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil is effective in boosting stem cells. A 4-week control study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that compared to those on a diet high in saturated fat or a diet low in fat but high in carbohydrates, those on a Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil showed a significant doubling in their endothelial progenitor cell count in the blood.
If you search online for stem cell supplements, you’re bound to find a long list.
Do stem cell supplements really work? Figuring out what to make of all of these supplements can be pretty daunting, as each claims to be the best and greatest.
You need to be careful with supplements and health claims and especially stem cell supplements. Why? Generally, the process of creating a new supplement is pretty simple. You go online, find some studies that seem to fit what you’re looking for, create a master file, choose your ingredients, and you’re off. Meaning, no original lab or clinical research is performed.
For example, to create a stem cell supplement, you could focus on the different ways that stem cells get impacted by supplement ingredients, like proliferation. This means that the substance helps stem cells make more of themselves. You then choose from some the ingredients below and you’ve got a new supplement. However, is this really what’s desired? Do you want more stem cells? Is that a good thing or a bad thing? What other impacts do these supplements have on stem cells? All of this is largely unknown.
Another important point is that foods that cause inflammation should be avoided, and those that provide building blocks and essential substrates should be encouraged.
The Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Foods that cause inflammation ultimately cause the production of free radicals (destructive particles that damage the genetic makeup of cells). This in turn has a great effect on your pain symptoms. In one study done from the University of Pittsburgh’s Department of Neurosurgery, an anti-inflammatory diet led to a significant reduction in symptomatology in three-quarters of patients. Approximately 70% of these patients were able to discontinue prescription medications.Protection from free radicals come from foods with oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). This includes phytonutrients, polyphenols, isoflavones, carotenoids and flavoides. They are responsible for the flavor, color, and smell of fruits and vegetables. So if you spot a dark colored or pigmented vegetable or fruit, it’s most likely phytonutrient rich! There are few substantial foods that have high ORAC values, like dark chocolate and acai berries, but those that contain the most are grains, herbs and spices:
- Chopped cloves
- Cinnamon ground
- Sumac bran
- Sorghum bran
- Dried oregano
- Turmeric
Best Supplements for Cell Regeneration and Regenerative Medicine Treatments
Here we’ll start with common supplements you might see on the grocery
store shelf, to see what the research says about how they impact stem
cells and inflammation.
So, if you plan to naturally boost stem cell regeneration, below
are some of the top science backed supplements that you need to
consider.
1. Glucosamine and Chondroitin
Glucosamine has been associated with reduced mortality in humans (R,R), and can extend lifespan in animals (R,R).
Glucosamine can for example help mesenchymal stem cells to generate cartilage cells (R). Glucosamine can also improve stem cell proliferation in the gut (R,R).
These two supplements are commonly used in arthritis treatments and are often derived from shellfish. Hence it makes sense that glucosamine can promote MSCs (Mesenchymal Stem Cells) to become cartilage and inhibit the breakdown of cartilage. Chondroitin can also enhance the ability of MSCs to turn into cartilage (R).
Chondroitin also has real measurable effects on knee cartilage in actual patients. In one study, it reduced cartilage volume loss on MRI after 6 months (R). Glucosamine also seemed to help cartilage quality when measured on a specialized MRI (R). In another study, glucosamine reduced cartilage breakdown products (R). Finally, when compared to prescription Celebrex, the combination of glucosamine and chondroitin were better at improving function and reducing cartilage breakdown in the knee (R).
2. Curcumin (Turmeric)
The most commonly promoted anti-inflammatory supplements right now are curcumin and turmeric. Turmeric and curcumin are derived from the turmeric root with turmeric being the spice you know from Indian cooking, and curcumin one of the chemical compounds known as curcuminoids, which are believed to be biologically active. In addition, in order for curcumin to be absorbed in the gut, a black pepper extract is commonly required.In one study that used adipose MSCs to treat heart attacks, curcumin improved the viability of the cells, reduced scarring in the heart muscle being repaired, and promoted new blood vessel formation (R). In another involving bone marrow MSCs, curcumin improved bone formation (R).
The curcuminoids also impact arthritis through anti-inflammatory pathways and reducing inflammatory cytokines. All of these effects have translated into real measurable impacts on patients with knee arthritis (R). In other studies, Curcumin has been shown to be as effective as common NSAID anti-inflammatories such as Diclofenac (R).
By itself, curcumin is poorly absorbed. Among the methods devised to address the issue, the most common (and most often tested) is to pair curcumin with piperine (a black pepper extract).
To supplement curcumin with piperine, take 500 mg of the former with 5-6.7 mg of the latter, thrice a day (i.e., 1,500 mg of curcumin and 15-20 mg of piperine per day) (R).
To supplement curcumin with piperine, take 500 mg of the former with 5-6.7 mg of the latter, thrice a day (i.e., 1,500 mg of curcumin and 15-20 mg of piperine per day) (R).
3. Resveratrol
Resveratrol (RSVL) is a natural type of polyphenolic phytoestrogen and is mainly found in red grapes, blueberries, peanuts, and other plants. The effect of resveratrol on stem cell is well documented (R).It also helps MSC (mesenchymal stem cell) differentiation into osteogenic (bone related) cells and suppresses differentiation into the fat related tissue lineage [R].
According to Examine.com:
Here are the benefits of quercetin:
- The lower end of supplementation tends to be for cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, and longevity for somebody who is otherwise unhealthy is 5-10mg daily. For persons who are otherwise healthy, dosages between the range of 150-445mg have been used (with no clear indication for what is the optimal dose).
- Supplementing for cerebral blood flow requires a dose in the 250-500mg range whereas supplementation for aromatase inhibition requires 500mg as well.
- Supplementation of resveratrol refers to trans-resveratrol exclusively.
4. Quercetin
This can be found in many fruits, vegetables, grains, and leaves. Kale and red onions are examples of foods that contains an appreciable amount of quercetin among many others. It comes with a bitter flavor and is commonly used as an ingredient in foods, beverages, and dietary supplements.Here are the benefits of quercetin:
- Antioxidant
- It supports mitochondria
- It can prevent the death of cells
- It can protect your body by reducing your stress levels
- It can serve as a natural antihistamine and can get rid of allergy symptoms
- It is a safe alternative to painkillers since it can treat arthritis and joint pain
- Research suggests that it can support stem cell growth and differentiation
- Apples
- Peppers
- Leafy greens
- Olive oil
- Red wine
- Cruciferous vegetables
- Currently, there are no ideal amounts set by the scientific community. You can ask your doctor regarding this one to find out how much is needed based on your health's current status.
- Majority of supplements require 500mg and it has to be taken twice daily. But with quercetin, you can already experience the benefits even if you take something lesser than that considering that it's known to be diet rich.
According to Examine.com:
- Dosages of quercetin used are in the range of 12.5 to 25mg per kg body weight, which translates to a range of 1,136-2,272mg daily consumption of quercetin when in isolation.
- It is suggested to supplement with other bioflavonoids such as resveratrol, genistein, or green tea catechins to increase the potency synergistically and theoretically get the benefits at a reduced level of intake.
- When looking for quercetin, the form of dihydrate has the apparent best bioavailability followed by glycosides, aglycone, and finally rutinoside.
5. Green Tea Extract
Green Tea Extract is incredibly potent thanks to its high number of polyphenols, which have been shown to:- Boost heart health [R]
- Promote improved cognitive function [study]
- Support healthy weight management [study]
- Enhance skin [study]
6. Blueberry powder
Blueberry powder is a powerful heat-sensitive antioxidant, shown to help DNA health. Additionally, this ingredient is shown to:7. Vitamin C
Vitamin C can also improve stem cell health (R,R).But ideally, vitamin C has help from alpha-ketoglutarate, given these two substances are substrates for important epigenetic enzymes, such as the TET enzymes (R).
8. NMN (nicotinamide mononucleotide)
NMN is a substance that increases NAD levels in our cells. NAD is a pivotal molecule to protect and repair DNA and the epigenome, including in stem cells.NMN can improve and protect stem cells such as mesenchymal stem cells that form bone and fat tissue (R,R).
9. Glycine, Leucine and L-Carnosine (Amino Acids)
Glycine is a naturally-occuring substance in our body; in fact, it’s an amino acid. However, during aging, levels of glycine decline.Glycine has shown to improve stem cell health (R,R). It can do this by protecting proteins in cells, or by inducing autophagy, which is the digestion of cellular waste.
Leucine is often referred to as “The Main Amino Acid” because it’s the most potent activator of protein, shown to:
L-Carnosine is a “performance enhancer” amino acid shown to enhance muscular endurance. In fact, many who take this potent ingredient report being able to dramatically increase strength performance at the gym, as well as:
Foods to Increase Stem Cells and Cell Regeneration
Human experiments have confirmed the following foods, which can increase the number of stem cells.1. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate contains flavanols that have biological properties. Researchers at the University of California recruited patients with coronary artery disease in a 30-day controlled trial. One group drank hot chocolate low in flavanols (only nine mg per serving) twice a day, and the other group drank hot chocolate high in flavanols (containing 375 mg per serving) twice a day. The results were surprising: the group with high-level flavanol had twice as many stem cells in their blood as that with low-level flavanol, and the former’s blood flow improved twice as much as the latter.
2. Black tea
A team of Italian researchers divided patients who had mild to moderate hypertension but did not receive medication into two groups. Group A drank plain black tea without sugar and milk twice a day while group B drank other beverages twice a day. One week later, blood tests showed the number of endothelial progenitor cells in the blood in the black-tea group rose by 56 percent, with an improved ability of blood vessel widening.
3. Olive oil
A Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil is effective in boosting stem cells. A 4-week control study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that compared to those on a diet high in saturated fat or a diet low in fat but high in carbohydrates, those on a Mediterranean diet rich in virgin olive oil showed a significant doubling in their endothelial progenitor cell count in the blood.
Conclusion
The problem with looking at these studies and throwing a bunch of
ingredients into a supplement is that you have no idea of how these
ingredients will interact. In addition, many of these studies are performed
with different stem cell subtypes in differing conditions. For example, some
used a 3D culture environment and some more traditional culture. Some added
other things into the petri dish in addition to the supplement or plant
extract.
When interpreting scientific studies, let’s remember that cell culture
results are trumped by mouse results. Mouse results are trumped by human
results. Case studies & small human trial results are trumped by
double-blind placebo controlled ones.
While some studies suggest that taking certain supplements may help
boost your stem cells, the best way to promote overall health is to
engage in healthy practices like consuming a nutritious
diet, engaging in regular exercise, caloric restriction and fasting, quality
sleep, reducing stress and protecting yourself from radiation and Ultraviolet irradiation.
The key takeaway is that you need to consult and discuss this together
with your trusted healthcare provider before taking any of the
supplements that are recommended above.
Sources and References:
Related: Best Anti Aging Supplements
Comments
Post a Comment