I from Europe and we can get 25mg if I remember correctly.
I thought that SGLT2 is not reducing glucose below 140?
Did I miss something?
All I can tell you is my experience - my numbers. I know I am not crazy, because I use the same fingerprick monitor and every morning I get up, and immediately wash my hands and take a reading. I then record it in my medical journal. Daily before I took empa, it was anywhere from 108 to 118. The day after I took my first 12.5mg empa the following morning, my reading was 95, and so on for 48 days now, never above 100. I don’t know what to tell you, but I don’t think it’s a one off effect, because it’s been 48 readings with no exceptions - it can’t be an accident. I have not changed my diet or exercise or lifestyle routines after I started on empa. I guess it’s possible that somehow I got a placebo somatic effect, but I think that’s unlikely.
There’s one other possibility, I did change from atorvastatin 10mg/day in November, a month before the empa to Pitavastatin 4mg/day. Atorvastatin can cause diabetes type 2, while Pitavastatin supposedly does not raise blood sugar and does not cause diabetes. But I don’t think that’s it. It’s a low dose of atorvastatin, but more importantly, I’ve been prediabetic for over a decade, but only taking any statin for 5-6 years, and I never observed any effect of atorvastatin on my blood sugar levels or my liver enzymes.
So, I don’t know what the exact mechanism is, all I have is my black box paradigm. I note the input - empagliflozin 12.5mg daily goes into the black box (my body), and I note the output - reliably lower morning blood sugar readings. What goes on inside the black box, my body, I don’t know, I can only speculate 
.
2 Likes
I agree based on my internal definition of life extension.
This phrase “life extension” is too ambiguous in my opinion and is over used and often not in context or poorly understood? That phrase often causes raucous debates 
To me there are 3 aspects of where we are headed;
- health span
- life span
- life extension
I often see life extension used to cover either or both health span and life span and those are 2 very different things, both are important and intertwined but they are not life extension in my mind.
Today we only have interventions that can increase health span, and increasing health span should lead to a longer life span but today it won’t lead to life extension, i.e. living beyond our programmed limit of 115 to 120.
We are limited in life span by several programmed rate limiters.
Really all we have today is the ability to increase health span.
6 Likes
I found that I had to move when I took some other supplements in order to tolerate taurine w/o gas.
I’m still not sure which supplements caused the interaction, because I take quite a few. I take
6g of taurine in the morning w/o side effects whereas before I had massive gas problems.
Culprits might have been NAC, glycine, magnesium, glucosamine, TMG, inositol, chondroitin,
turmeric, and/or berberine. I still take quite a few supplements in the morning that apparently have
no interaction.
5 Likes
LukeMV
#46
I think taurine is one of those supplements that’s probably very good in the right amounts for longevity, but very difficult to measure on any form of diagnostic tests to see what impact it actually is having. In other words, something we should all take and just hope for the best.
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The best dosing regime I have heard is that starting in your 30s take your age, divide by 10, round up and take that many grams of taurine daily. That comes from Rimon, the wellness messiah, from his taurine video.
3 Likes
I started taking low dose (500 mg/d) taurine about 12 years ago due to cardiovascular issues and transitioning to plant based diet which is low in Taurine. Working from memory, but I recall that Taurine increased the numbers of endothelial progenitor cells, which is a good thing for vascular health. 2023 study from lab of Vijay Yadav provided evidence of more global effects. Since I am older, 70, I increased my daily dose to 1 gram which is lower than human equivalent from mice studies. But my blood tests indicated plasma levels 2 to 3 decades younger so I’m not going to be taking large doses. You can get Taurine tested as part of amino acid panel if interested.
6 Likes
Has anyone tried taurine injections? It’s something I’m considering given my gut intolerance to taurine.
1 Like
Tim
#50
Berberine is notorious for GI side-effects.
Not a big fan of watching/listening to videos or podcasts so for video I use https://www.summarize.tech to get a text summary of the content.
This is an AI generated summary. There may be inaccuracies.
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In the “Longevity Supplements: Here’s What I CHANGED and Why” YouTube video, the speaker shares his updated perspective on certain longevity supplements, specifically tocotrienols, NASIN, NAD+ booster NMN, vitamin D customization, and Ashwagandha . He explains that older individuals may benefit from increased doses of tocotrienols for their anti-aging effects, but cautions against potential negative impacts on neurotransmitters. NASIN, an NAD+ booster, is seen as beneficial for muscle health, but it may be more effective taken in smaller doses throughout the day, and older individuals may benefit from dividing NAD+ production. The speaker encourages the use of NMN for improving physical performance and addressing NAD+ deficiency in muscles for those over 60 but advises that it might not extend lifespan. He also emphasizes the importance of reducing cortisol levels and maintaining muscle health through natural supplements like Ashwagandha and acetyl-L-carnitine, and he discusses the importance of vitamin D testing and dosage based on individual conversion efficiency. The speaker also highlights findings from a 2010 study on the association between glucosamine, condrin, and decreased mortality risk. For those over 65, he suggests DHEA hormonal support and antioxidant defense to protect against oxidative damage, recommending quercetin as a specific antioxidant for fatty tissue protection.
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00:00:00 In this section, the speaker discusses his updated perspective on certain longevity supplements, specifically tocotrienols (toine), NAD+ boosters like nasin, and vitamin D customization, drawing from recent studies showing their impact on aging defense. Tocotrienols, which have been affordable and have shown promising results in various animal studies linking them to anti-aging effects, warrant a higher dose as one ages and decreases in production. However, caution is necessary due to tocotrienols’ influence on neurotransmitters that may affect sleep, mood, and energy levels, and potentially lead to a compromised dose for older individuals requiring a greater aging defense. Nasin, an NAD+ booster, is also examined with its benefits for muscle health, although more research is needed to definitively establish its effects on other systems.
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00:05:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled “Longevity Supplements: Here’s What I CHANGED and Why”, the speaker shares his updated thoughts on the use of supplements NASIN and NAD+ booster NMN. He explains that while NASIN has beneficial effects on muscles and cardiovascular disease, it may be more effective if taken in smaller doses throughout the day instead of large doses. The speaker also expresses his belief that older individuals may benefit more from dividing NAD+ production. He no longer takes more than 50 milligrams of NASIN in one dose and takes one day off per week to cycle the response. The speaker also reflects on his past skepticism towards NMN, acknowledging that there is limited data on its absorption and metabolism, but shares recent studies showing improvements in muscle performance and exercise capacity in older mice treated with NMN. He encourages individuals over 60 to consider NMN as a supplement for improving physical performance and covering NAD+ deficiency in muscles. However, he also emphasizes that it may not necessarily extend lifespan. The speaker also mentions taking one gram of NMN per day and that Ashwagandha is an optional supplement for its ability to control cortisol levels.
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00:10:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled “Longevity Supplements: Here’s What I CHANGED and Why,” the speaker discusses the importance of keeping muscles healthy for longevity and reducing elevated cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol can dismantle muscle mass, reduce muscle functionality, and contribute to conditions like diabetes. Ashwagandha is a natural supplement that can help reduce cortisol levels and is recommended for times of chronic high stress. Another supplement mentioned is acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC carnitine), which helps muscles burn fat and reduces the dependence on burning sugar, leading to youthfulness and a decrease in aging damage. The speaker initially took one gram of acetyl-L-carnitine twice daily, but after considering potential contaminants and the effect on gut bacteria, he reduced his dose to 500 milligrams twice a day. He also suggests taking an additional 500 milligrams before intense exercise. The speaker emphasizes that his suggestions are based on his personal experience and not medical advice. Vitamin D and its active form, 25-hydroxy vitamin D, and calcitriol (the active hormone of vitamin D) are also briefly mentioned as essential for optimal health, but they do not have a direct impact on the topics of reducing cortisol or boosting muscle health.
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00:15:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled “Longevity Supplements: Here’s What I CHANGED and Why,” the speaker discusses the importance of testing Vitamin D levels and dosage based on individual conversion efficiency and genetic makeup. He recommends starting with a low dose of 5,000 units per day and adjusting it based on test results. The speaker also shares his belief that the body can handle high doses of Vitamin D without toxicity, citing research and personal experience. Lastly, the speaker talks about B vitamins, stating that adequate levels increase longevity and reduce mortality but excess doses can increase mortality. He suggests taking one capsule a day and taking it during the fasting window for optimal results. The takeaway is to ensure proper vitamin D dosage through testing and to be cautious with B vitamin overdose.
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00:20:00 In this section of the YouTube video titled “Longevity Supplements: Here’s What I CHANGED and Why,” the speaker discusses findings from a 2010 study that identified glucosamine and condrin as supplements associated with decreased total mortality risk. The study found that high intake of these supplements led to a 70% lower mortality risk. However, the speaker questions why condrin, which also showed mortality-lowering effects, is not mentioned in the context of the supplements the speaker personally takes. The speaker then shifts to discuss supplements and modifications for those over age 65, with a focus on hormonal support through DHEA use and antioxidant defense to protect against oxidative damage. The speaker mentions that antioxidants such as vitamin E and Vitamin A contribute to increased longevity after age 70, but suggests a specific supplement called quercetin as an effective antioxidant for protecting fatty tissues from oxidation.
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00:25:00 In this section of the video, the speaker discusses his recommendations for supplements to support longevity, specifically focusing on a supplement called “super antioxidant” that increases the production of glutathione and the antioxidant defense system. He advises taking one capsule daily for the synergistic effects, noting that it’s not necessary before age 65 unless there is a specific situation. For those over 65, the speaker suggests a discounted absorption rate for protein and the addition of extra collagen in their diet due to reduced protein absorption and decreased ability to digest protein as people age. Collagen is beneficial for building soft tissues and acts as a pre-digested protein, allowing for easier absorption. Overall, these updates to his 2024 supplement regimen aim to maintain health and youth as he and his parents age.
8 Likes
Ludovic
#53
Alex Kikel, a performance coach I follow on Youtube, says that taurine helps in the regeneration of gluthatione work I can’t find any decent info on this in the literature, but this is what chatGPT says;
The regeneration of glutathione (GSH) from its oxidized form (GSSG) is a critical cellular process for maintaining redox balance. Taurine supports this process indirectly through several mechanisms:
1. Enhanced Activity of Glutathione Reductase
Glutathione reductase is the enzyme responsible for converting oxidized glutathione (GSSG) back to its reduced form (GSH) using NADPH as a cofactor. Taurine’s antioxidant properties reduce the oxidative burden on cells, preserving NADPH availability. This ensures that glutathione reductase can function optimally.
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How Taurine Helps: By reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and protecting mitochondrial function, taurine minimizes NADPH consumption for other antioxidant systems, leaving more available for glutathione regeneration.
2. Regulation of ROS and Oxidative Stress
Taurine acts as a direct scavenger of certain ROS, such as hypochlorous acid (HOCl), and modulates the production of free radicals in mitochondria. By lowering overall oxidative stress, taurine reduces the rate at which GSH is oxidized to GSSG, thereby allowing the regeneration process to keep pace with demand.
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Example: In oxidative stress conditions like ischemia-reperfusion injury, taurine has been shown to decrease the accumulation of ROS, preserving both GSH levels and its recycling efficiency.
3. Protection of Redox-Related Enzymes
Oxidative damage can impair enzymes involved in redox balance, including glutathione reductase. Taurine stabilizes cellular membranes and proteins, protecting these enzymes from oxidative inactivation.
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Research Evidence: Studies indicate that taurine supplementation in oxidative stress models preserves the activity of glutathione-related enzymes, including reductase, peroxidase, and transferase.
4. Reduction in GSSG Formation
By reducing the oxidative burden, taurine decreases the formation of GSSG, the oxidized form of glutathione. This lowers the need for extensive recycling, effectively “lightening the load” on the glutathione system.
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Pathway: Taurine reduces the activity of enzymes like NADPH oxidase and stabilizes mitochondria, minimizing the production of superoxide and other ROS that would otherwise drive GSH oxidation.
5. Influence on Sulfur Metabolism
Taurine metabolism involves sulfur compounds that can interact with other thiols, such as cysteine and homocysteine. By maintaining a healthy sulfur balance, taurine indirectly supports the synthesis of GSH precursors, which may contribute to the efficiency of the glutathione cycle.
3 Likes
Possibly, you misspelled glutathione?
Query:
“Does taurine help in the regeneration of glutathione?”
Turned this up:
“Yes, taurine helps in the regeneration of glutathione.
Taurine, a sulfur-containing amino acid, has been shown to play a significant role in maintaining and restoring glutathione levels. Glutathione is a critical antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative stress. Several studies have demonstrated taurine’s ability to enhance glutathione levels and support redox homeostasis.” etc.,etc………
5 Likes
Ludovic
#55
Thanks for the suggestions, for the Taurine enthusiasts, I found this article worth reading, you have to download it;
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371416788_Taurine_a_Wonderful_Molecule_A_Review_Article
6 Likes
if it is liver glucose production that bothers, why not metformin? empa lowers waking blood glucose, but does not target liver glucose production like metformin does.
I took metformin 500mg/day for a year and it didn’t do jack for me, zero impact on A1c, BG levels etc., though I tolerated it no problem. Since then, I’ve read enough about metformin, that I decided it’s not for me (impact on exercise, time of conversion from pre- to full DMT2, compared to lifestyle intervention studies etc.). I’d sooner try pioglitazone - my insulin production is elevated, so maybe increased sensitivity can take care of BG.
2 Likes
“time of conversion from pre- to full DMT2”
what does this refer to? does metformin accelerate conversion?
Vida
#59
I measured taurine in blood an urine on the same day. My blood levels were a little below reference range and my urine levels were very high. I was “wasting” taurine because a high uriribe beta alanine level (of unknown cause) was apparently outcompeting it for reabsorption at the renal tubules
So i have beensupplementinng for several years but just recently have stopped and will reassess . after one month. While it has raised my taurine blood levels a little, i seem to have adapted after tge first year and initial big improvements in urinr levels of taurinre, beta alanine and anserine vanished. Then from the taurine, i have started losing cysteine in my urine and levels have gotten too low in my blood- cant be a good thing i don’t think. And then do not know if the taurinrme is cause but i am not conjugating taurine with bile acids- not a good thing.
Taurine had no effectvon my blood pressure or glucose level.
4 Likes
No, the issue rather is that the conversion is not much delayed compared to lifestyle interventions. Diet + exercise did much better in head to head comparison to metformin. D+E had lower A1c outcomes and took longer to get to DMT2 compared to metformin.
1 Like
well, yes, of course, I mean, why would anybody opt against good diet and exercise? Surely nobody here, when comparing drugs like empa versus metformin, needs to be reminded to exercise.
Anyways, your example is interesting, as metformin did not help you although it looks like, as you wrote yourself, that it is your liver that is the main factor. BTW, I clearly feel the impact of metformin on exercise, but go along with the research results on that the outcome is actually equal strength with more efficient muscles.
