Digestive Enzymes (Broad Spectrum) vs Resveratrol

Mechanism

Broad-spectrum digestive enzyme complexes supplement endogenous pancreatic and brush border enzyme production. Key enzymes include: lipase (triglyceride hydrolysis to fatty acids/glycerol), protease/peptidase (protein to amino acids via peptide bond cleavage), amylase (starch to maltose/glucose), lactase (lactose to glucose/galactose), cellulase (plant fiber breakdown), and invertase (sucrose hydrolysis). They reduce osmotic load in the small intestine, decrease bacterial fermentation of undigested substrate, and improve nutrient bioavailability.

Standard Dosing

1-2 capsules with each main meal

Timing

Immediately before or at the start of each meal. Not needed for small snacks.

Cycle Duration

ongoing as needed

Side Effects

• GI cramping if taken without food
• Allergic reactions (rare)
• Mouth ulcers from chewing enzyme capsules
• Perianal irritation from lipase at very high doses

Contraindications

• Acute pancreatitis
• Known allergy to enzyme sources (porcine, fungal, fruit-derived)

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Mechanism

Resveratrol activates SIRT1 (the longevity sirtuin) via allosteric binding, promoting deacetylation of PGC-1alpha (mitochondrial biogenesis), FOXO3 (stress resistance), and p53 (DNA repair). It inhibits NF-kB and COX-2, reducing chronic inflammation. Resveratrol also activates AMPK independently of SIRT1 and inhibits phosphodiesterases (PDEs), raising cAMP levels. It improves endothelial function via eNOS upregulation and NO production.

Standard Dosing

250-500mg trans-resveratrol daily

Timing

Morning with a fat-containing meal. Often taken alongside NMN for synergistic sirtuin activation.

Cycle Duration

ongoing

Side Effects

• GI upset/diarrhea at high doses
• Headache
• Joint pain (rare)
• Insomnia (if taken late)

Contraindications

• Estrogen-sensitive cancers (theoretical ER agonism)
• Bleeding disorders
• Pregnancy/lactation

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