Spermidine as a Calorie Restriction Mimetic

Researchers have found that calorie restriction is one way to increase lifespan. However, the levels of caloric restriction necessary to achieve this are often unrealistic for the average person, and may lead to nutrient deficiencies or other negative effects throughout the body. Calorie Restriction Mimetics, or “CRMs,” are compounds that mimic the beneficial effects of restricting calories or fasting, by inducing the process of autophagy. One of the primary mechanisms of action of spermidine is the induction of autophagy, thus classifying it as a CRM. Other CRMs which have been identified, and are known for their beneficial health effects include resveratrol, curcumin, And EGCG (from green tea).