Dr. Bruce Ames explains his ‘triage theory’ for micronutrient prevention of aging
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The triage theory of micronutrients states that your body triages how micronutrients are used when there is a shortage. Our bodies prioritize putting micronutrients in metabolic pathways needed for survival and reproduction over pathways used in long-term health such as DNA damage repair. In this clip, Bruce provides both an evolutionary and a molecular rationale for his theory. His research team has shown this triaging in vitamin K2 and selenium and postulates it is probably true for many other micronutrients.
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A substance whose presence is essential for the activity of an enzyme. Many minerals and vitamins are cofactors for enzymes.
An essential trace mineral. Selenium is incorporated into selenoproteins, a class of highly conserved proteins that exert potent antioxidant activity. Selenoproteins play critical roles in reproduction, thyroid hormone metabolism, DNA synthesis, and protection from oxidative damage and infection. One of the best-known selenoproteins is glutathione peroxidase. Selenium can be obtained from supplements and foods such as Brazil nuts, yellowfin tuna, beans, and some grains.
A type of fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin K is critical for blood clotting, bone metabolism, prevention of blood vessel mineralization, and regulation of various cellular functions. Naturally occurring forms of vitamin K include phylloquinone (vitamin K1) and a family of molecules called menaquinones (vitamin K2). Vitamin K1 is synthesized by plants and is the major form in the diet. Vitamin K2 molecules are synthesized by the gut microbiota and found in fermented foods and some animal products (especially liver). The body has limited vitamin K storage capacity, so the body recycles it in a vitamin K redox cycle and reuses it multiple times.
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