Spermidine: occurrence, foods and context

Spermidine has become a familiar name within the longevity community. Here you'll learn what spermidine is and in which foods it occurs naturally.

What is spermidine?

Spermidine is a naturally occurring compound found in almost all living cells. It is therefore a natural component of our body and our diet.

Which foods contain spermidine?

Spermidine is found in wheat germ, soybeans, mushrooms and matured cheese, among others. Wheat germ is considered particularly rich in spermidine – which is why extracts derived from it are often used as a source for supplements.

Why the interest in spermidine?

Today spermidine is among the best-known ingredients in healthy aging and is increasingly being studied. Many people consciously add it to their daily routine.

Spermidine at Lyvity

Our Lyvity Spermidine provides spermidine-rich wheat germ extract, supplemented with niacin (vitamin B3). Niacin contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. Note: the product contains wheat (gluten).

What does the research say?

Spermidine is a natural polyamine considered a physiological trigger of autophagy – the cell's own «recycling process». In animal models, oral spermidine extended lifespan and improved heart function. In the large Bruneck cohort study, higher dietary spermidine intake was associated with lower all-cause mortality – even after accounting for classic risk factors (Kiechl et al., 2018).

These population data show promising associations, and first intervention studies suggest good short-term tolerability. Spermidine thus remains an exciting focus of longevity research.

Selected sources:

• Kiechl et al., 2018 – Higher spermidine intake is linked to lower mortality (Bruneck) (PubMed)
• Madeo et al. – Spermidine in health and disease, Science (Science)
• Cardioprotective autophagy via spermidine, Nature Medicine (PMC)

Note: This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Food supplements are not a substitute for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. For health questions or existing conditions, please consult a doctor.