Question 248 of 433
What is urolithin A?
The short answer
A compound your gut bacteria make from pomegranates and walnuts, sold as a supplement to help cells recycle worn-out mitochondria. Small human trials show modest gains in muscle endurance and strength.
Only about 40 percent of people make much of it naturally, which is the argument for supplementing. In one trial of middle-aged adults, four months at 500 to 1,000 milligrams improved leg strength by about 10 to 12 percent. In a trial of older adults, muscle endurance improved but the main goal, walking distance, did not. It is among the more credible newcomers and among the most expensive.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
SMALL HUMAN TRIALS — Selected middle-aged and older adults: some muscle outcomes; primary endpoints and industry funding matter.Evidence grade (draft mapping)BLimited or small human studiesPart 17, Q248 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.