Spermidine
Spermidine is a polyamine, a molecule present in every cell and in foods such as wheat germ, soy, mushrooms and aged cheese.
1–3 mg of spermidine a day (the dose in the studies).
What it is
It is studied because it activates autophagy, the cells’ internal clean-up and recycling system, which becomes less efficient with age.
What it is used for
The quiz suggests it when your answers justify it. It usually appears with these goals:
What the evidence says
Early data in people or, mostly, from the laboratory. It only appears at the advanced level, and we say so.
Of interest for its role in autophagy (cellular “clean-up”) in animal studies. In humans, a 12-month trial found no benefit for memory.
| Year | What was studied | What was found | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Longevity | 20-year study with 829 people: those with more spermidine in their diet had lower mortality. Being observational, it does not prove cause and effect. | Kiechl et al.American Journal of Clinical Nutrition |
| 2022 | Memory | 12-month trial with 100 people aged 60 to 90 with memory complaints: 0.9 mg a day did not improve memory or biomarkers compared with placebo. Exploratory analyses point to possible effects on verbal memory and inflammation. | Schwarz et al.JAMA Network Open |
What to look for on the label
- Wheat germ extract with 0.8–2.4 mg of spermidine per gram, which is the authorised specification.
- Extracts at 1% (10 mg/g) or more concentrated do not meet it.
Precautions
- Contains wheat: not suitable if you have coeliac disease or a wheat allergy.
Where to find it
Products whose label meets what this profile asks for: form, dose per serving and nothing that contradicts it. Three at most: quality of the active comes first and, among the best, we look for one option in each price range. We choose by composition, not by who pays. The shops are European or ship to Europe.
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spermidineLIFEShips from AustriaLongevity Labs+
spermidineLIFE® Original 365+
1 mg of spermidine per 2 capsules, from 800 mg of wheat germ extract
For the reference dose2 capsules: 1 mgView at spermidineLIFE (opens in a new tab)Meets the criteria. Adds low doses of zinc and vitamin B1.
We link to the shop; we do not sell anything. Today we earn no commission on any link. If we ever do, the link will say so and the selection will not change: the label decides. Labels checked on 2 November 2026; check the one on the pack before you buy. All these shops deliver to the EU; some of their pages open in Spanish. How we are funded.
Nearby in the library
Is it for you?
The quiz decides from your answers, not from a profile.
Profile reviewed on 3 November 2026. Sources: EFSA, Regulation (EU) 432/2012 and published studies. Image: Chemical apparatus in use. Engraving, 18th century. Wellcome Collection, public domain.
General information based on published scientific evidence and EU law. Food supplements should not be used as a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle, and are not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any disease.
Do not exceed the daily dose stated on each product. If you take medication, have a medical condition or have any doubts, ask your doctor or pharmacist.