FASTER, PLEASE: A genuine ‘elixir of life’ – at least for mice. “The cocktail of amino acids – building blocks of proteins – was found to increase the lifespan of mice by 12 per cent. Researchers believe it may also benefit humans, especially the elderly or sick. . . . Longer survival was accompanied by biological changes which boosted the energy supply to cells and reduced oxidative damage caused by destructive molecules called free radicals. The treated mice had more stamina and improved muscle co-ordination. . . . Mice given the three amino acids produced larger numbers of mitochondria – the rod-like ‘powerhouses’ in cells that generate energy – in their heart and skeletal muscle. They also showed increased activity of SIRT1, a well-known longevity gene, and developed better defences against free radicals.”

You can buy branched-chain amino acid supplements at health food stores now, but it would be nice to see some human studies.

UPDATE: Reader Jed DeHaven writes: “What brand of supplement do you take? I know that sups are different in $ and potency.” I don’t take a BCAA supplement, although I’m now thinking about it. No idea which is best.