Spermidine is a biogenic polyamine that declines approximately 40% between age 40 and 80 in human tissues. It activates autophagy by inhibiting the acetyltransferase EP300, derepressing the autophagy gene network. Human epidemiological studies link higher spermidine intake to reduced all-cause mortality; supplementation trials show improvements in cognitive function, cardiovascular markers, and immune function.

Can I get enough spermidine from food?

A spermidine-rich diet (wheat germ, soy, aged cheese, mushrooms) can provide 5–15 mg/day — within the therapeutic range. However, food spermidine content varies, making consistent dosing difficult. Supplements provide guaranteed doses.

Is spermidine the same as a senolytic?

No. Spermidine activates autophagy to clear damaged cellular components within living cells; senolytics kill dysfunctional cells entirely. Both pathways are important for aging — they are complementary, not interchangeable.