C15: The Essential Fatty Acid Transforming Metabolic Health & Aging | Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson | Ep.50
Sep 24, 2024
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Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist and public health scientist, dives into her innovative research about C15:0, a newly identified essential fatty acid found in dolphins. This fatty acid may hold the key to enhancing metabolic health and longevity, showcasing benefits that surpass omega-3s. Discover how C15:0 could tackle inflammation and insulin resistance, along with groundbreaking insights into its implications for human health. Stephanie reveals its potential to reshape our understanding of diet and aging, making it a true game-changer.
C15:0, an essential fatty acid found predominantly in animal products, is linked to improved metabolic health and enhanced insulin sensitivity.
Research on dolphins' glucose metabolism provides insights into insulin resistance which may parallel evolutionary adaptations in early humans.
C15 supplements present a promising opportunity to fill dietary gaps and improve overall health, longevity, and reduce chronic disease risks.
Deep dives
C15: An Essential Fatty Acid for Metabolic Health
Pentadecanoic acid, commonly referred to as C15, is highlighted as an essential fatty acid primarily found in animal products, particularly dairy. Low levels of C15 are linked to poor metabolic health, while higher levels can yield significant health benefits, such as improved lipid profiles and better insulin sensitivity. Supplements that boost C15 levels could potentially mitigate chronic diseases associated with low metabolic health. The podcast emphasizes the importance of incorporating C15-rich foods such as butter, grass-fed meats, and fatty fish into one's diet for optimal health.
Dolphin Health Insights and Evolutionary Biology
The podcast explores the fascinating research on bottlenose dolphins, revealing that their unique glucose metabolism may parallel that of humans. Dr. Stephanie Van Watson discusses her early studies with the Navy, where she observed prolonged hyperglycemia in dolphins, suggesting a form of insulin resistance that could indicate an evolutionary adaptation to a high-protein diet. This insight prompts further investigation into how similar metabolic responses may have occurred in early humans during periods of dietary change. Such research reveals important evolutionary links that could enhance our understanding of metabolic health in both dolphins and humans.
C15's Role in Mitochondrial Function and Longevity
C15's benefits extend to mitochondrial function, as it assists in energy production and reduces oxidative stress within cells. It acts as a stabilizing saturated fat, which protects cell membranes from premature breakdown, especially compared to polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are more susceptible to oxidation. The podcast highlights findings that indicate C15 can activate important metabolic pathways, promoting longevity and lower incident rates of chronic diseases. These actions suggest that C15 plays a vital role in maintaining not only physical health but also cognitive vitality.
Research on C15 Compared to Conventional Longevity Molecules
Recent research comparisons place C15 alongside well-known longevity molecules such as rapamycin, metformin, and acarbose, revealing impressive safety and efficacy profiles. C15 demonstrated a broader array of beneficial effects across various human cellular models compared to its counterparts. The outcomes showcase its potential not only in improving metabolic health but also in various disease states, making it a valuable candidate for further exploration in longevity science. The findings spark interest in re-evaluating our nutritional guidelines concerning essential fatty acids like C15 for healthy aging.
Accessibility and Future of C15 Supplementation
The podcast discusses the development of C15 supplements aimed at bridging nutrient gaps in modern diets, particularly for those with limited access to animal products. Dr. Van Watson mentions that individuals could benefit greatly from targeted supplementation to achieve healthy C15 levels that promote longevity and metabolic efficiency. Furthermore, ongoing research seeks to deepen the understanding of C15 and its applications, both in animal and human health contexts. This promising avenue of investigation demonstrates the potential of C15 to enhance overall health and mitigate aging-related diseases in the population.
In our 50th episode of The Metabolic Link podcast, host Dr. Dominic D’Agostino dives deep into the fascinating world of metabolic health through an unexpected lens — bottlenose dolphins.
Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist and public health scientist, joins the show to share her groundbreaking research with the U.S. Navy’s Marine Mammal Program, where dolphins helped reveal the essential role of C15:0. C15:0 is an odd-chain saturated fatty acid that has 3-times more cellular benefits than omega-3s. Dr. Venn-Watson surprisingly discovered that C15:0 (also called pentadecanoic acid) is an essential fatty acid - the first to be found in over 90 years. In this episode, we discuss how C15:0 plays an important role in longevity and metabolic health, its potential to reduce inflammation, improve mitochondrial function, and why it’s crucial for both dolphins and humans. Learn how this unique fatty acid is transforming our understanding of insulin resistance and why it could be a game-changer in human health. Plus, Dr. Venn-Watson also shares the exciting future of this essential fatty acid in human health research.
AboutDr. Stephanie Venn-Watson Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson is the CEO of Seraphina Therapeutics. A seasoned veterinary epidemiologist and public health scientist, Stephanie previously served at the World Health Organization and U.S. Navy. With a life-long mission of helping people (and our fellow animals) age better, Stephanie’s award-winning approach to improving human and animal health has been featured on NPR, BBC, CBS, and National Geographic. In her time as CEO, Seraphina Therapeutics has been recognized for its extensive research and education on pentadecanoic acid (C15:0). Dr. Venn-Watson is also the co-founder of Fatty15. Fatty15 is a science-backed and award-winning C15:0 supplement to support our long-term health and wellness.
Stephanie received her B.S. in Animal Physiology and Neuroscience from UC San Diego, D.V.M. from Tufts University, M.P.H. from Emory University, and was a National Research Council Associate with the Armed Forces Medical Intelligence Center. She is an Albert Schweitzer Fellow for Life.
Special thanks to our episode sponsors: * Genova Connect - Get 15% off with code METABOLICLINK here * AquaTru - Get 20% off with the code METABOLICLINK here * Ned - Get 15% off with code METABOLICLINK here
This episode is not sponsored by Fatty15, but they're a partner of The Metabolic Link. Get 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by clicking here and using code METABOLICLINK
In every episode of The Metabolic Link, we'll uncover the very latest research on metabolic health and therapy. If you like this episode, please share it, subscribe, follow, and leave us a comment or review on whichever platform you use to tune in!
Please keep in mind: The Metabolic Link does not provide medical or health advice, but rather general information that does not serve as a substitute for a licensed healthcare professional. Never delay in seeking medical advice from an appropriately licensed medical provider for any health condition that you may have.
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