A Guide to AMPK Activators
AMPK is deemed as the regulator that maintains cellular energy homeostasis that is the foundation for proper functioning of the body. Now in mammals, AMPK is regulating the energy balance at both on cellular level by means of sensing ATP/AMP and ATP/ADP ratio levels and whole body level through response to the hormones and the brain.
ATP is actually the most significant energy molecule present in the body. Simply put, this is where cellular function all begins. ATP breaks down into ADP that has less potential for energy since the cells are using energy. ADP is broken down to AMP containing the least energy potential among all 3. This is where AMPK steps in, it is sensing the relative ratios of ATP/ADP/AMP and telling the body if it needs more ADP so by that, it maintains proper functioning.
There are different mechanisms in which AMPK acts on. This totally makes sense because it’s the master regulator of the functioning of cells. The impact of AMPK activation in our body will depend on a complicated balance of both factors as well as signaling pathways. Still, there are many different benefits of having increased AMPK and these are:
Anti aging – as we begin to age, AMPK activation begins to decline. As a matter of fact, many experts believe that one factor that contributes to aging is AMPK. It is promoting cellular renewal and also, the production of new mitochondria.
Anti inflammation – interestingly enough, AMPK activation can help in decreasing inflammation but it can be decreased as well by inflammation.
Anti diabetic – as a matter of fact, AMPK is slowly becoming well understood in relation to its role in diabetes treatment primarily because of its capability to enhance insulin sensitivity.
There are lots of herbal products/constituents and nutritional products too that are proven to be effective as AMPK activator and few of these are:
Number 1. AICAR – this is AMP’s analog which is required for cellular use and storage similar to ATP. Because it is AMP’s analog, AICAR has the capability of stimulating AMPK’s activity directly which can actually boost muscle performance.
Number 2. ALA – in this case, it’s Alpha Lipoic Acid that is known to be an effective antioxidant but it’s a useful AMPK activator too. It has been shown to greatly boost insulin sensitivity in the body and carrying anti obesity effects.
Number 3. Green tea extract – this helps in activating upstream kinase which then helps in activating AMPK.
Number 4. Berberine – with AMPK activation, berberine was known to bring the same anti diabetic effect as metformin.