Highlights: 

  • Anti-aging supplements like NAD+ precursors and antioxidants may protect against cellular damage caused by pervasive environmental microplastics.
  • Compounds called senolytics may deter cellular transformations that occur in response to microplastics.
  • Avoiding microplastic intake by becoming aware of environmental exposures may help prevent the aging accelerating effects of microplastics.

In our modern world, microplastics have become an omnipresent environmental concern, pervading water sources, foods, and even the air we breathe. These tiny particles, measuring less than five millimeters in size, are not just a threat to ecological systems but pose significant health risks to humans, potentially accelerating the aging process by promoting increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. However, emerging research suggests that certain anti-aging supplements may offer a defense by mitigating the harmful effects of microplastics on the body.

Understanding the Threat of Microplastics

Microplastics, which break down from larger plastic debris or are added to products like cosmetics and textiles, eventually find their way into our bodies. A recent landmark study uncovered that these tiny particles can embed themselves in our arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and premature death. Additionally, recent findings have revealed the presence of microplastics in human testicles, with higher concentrations linked to decreased testicle size. Moreover, microplastics were found in every human placenta measured in another study.

These concerning health impacts could be due to microplastic-induced oxidative stress, a damaging process identified in preclinical studies. This stress occurs when cells generate an overwhelming amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), surpassing what our natural antioxidants can handle. Not only is oxidative stress a major driver of aging, but it also sets the stage for chronic diseases to develop.

The Role of Anti-Aging Supplements

NAD+ Precursors (Nicotinamide Riboside, Nicotinamide Mononucleotide)

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) is a coenzyme essential for energy metabolism and maintaining DNA integrity. NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide riboside (NR) and nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), can boost the body’s levels of this vital molecule, enhancing cellular repair and resilience. By shielding cells from oxidative stress, NAD+ precursors may potentially counteract cellular damage caused by microplastics.

Antioxidants and Sirt Activators 

Antioxidants are powerful molecules that combat reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby easing oxidative stress. A recent study highlights how the polyphenol pinostrobin significantly lowers ROS in the testicles of rats exposed to microplastics, boosting sperm motility as a result. Similarly, pterostilbene, another polyphenol, has shown promise in reducing ROS in mouse testicle cells under the same conditions. Notably, pterostilbene also activates sirtuins — key enzymes linked to longer lifespans.

Sirtuins play a vital role in enhancing cell survival, potentially offsetting the damage caused by microplastics. Building on this, a new study found that the sirtuin activator, resveratrol, and the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) each effectively reduces ROS and enhances blood vessel function in pigs. This suggests that anti-aging supplements that not only lower ROS but also activate sirtuins could be crucial in mitigating the cardiovascular and reproductive risks posed by microplastics.

Senolytics

Senolytics are fascinating compounds designed to target and clear out senescent cells — cells that have transformed due to stress such as inflammation, DNA damage, or oxidative stress. As we grow older, these cells accumulate, potentially wreaking havoc on our organs and contributing to the persistent, low-grade inflammation that drives many age-related diseases, including heart disease.

Recent research has unearthed that microplastics not only elevate ROS levels but also prompt cells in blood vessels and testicular tissues to enter this senescent state, potentially speeding up the aging process by increasing the load of these dysfunctional cells. Given this, employing senolytics like resveratrol, pterostilbene, and N-acetylcysteine (NAC) seems promising. These compounds might significantly reduce the burden of senescent cells and thus mitigate the aging and health issues accelerated by microplastic exposure.

Integrating Supplements into Daily Life

While the potential of these supplements to reduce the effects of microplastics has been observed in animals, it is essential to approach their use with a balanced perspective. Incorporating these supplements should be part of a broader health-focused lifestyle that includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and minimal exposure to pollutants.

As research continues to uncover the extensive reach and impact of microplastics on human health, the role of anti-aging supplements in combating these effects is becoming increasingly apparent. By fostering cellular resilience and reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, these supplements may potentially shield our bodies from the insidious aging effects of microplastics.