Aminoguanidine is a chemical compound with the formula NH2C(=NH)NHNH2. It is a diamine derivative of guanidine and has the ability to inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). It is often found in anti-aging supplements such as AminoPro™, which has been dubbed as the “world’s most potent anti-aging supplement”.
Advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) are compounds formed in the body through a series of non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, lipids, or nucleic acids. These reactions, known as glycation or Maillard reactions, contribute to various age-related diseases and complications, including diabetes, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Aminoguanidine is thought to inhibit the formation of AGEs by trapping reactive carbonyl species (RCS). These are biological compounds that act as a precursor to the formation of AGEs By trapping RCS and therefore inhibiting the formation of AGEs, aminoguanidine may help mitigate some of the pathological processes associated with diabetes and other conditions. It has also been studied for its potential therapeutic role in diabetic complications, such as nephropathy (kidney damage), neuropathy (nerve damage), and retinopathy (eye damage).
Other benefits of Aminoguanidine include reducing the amount of bad cholesterol in the body and protecting against conditions such as atherosclerotic disease (the hardening and narrowing of the arteries).
Aminoguanidine may have the potential to slow down the aging process in the way it inhibits AGEs, as well as working to actively protect proteins from detrimental cross link binding. Cross-linking (glycosylation) is seen as a major culprit in the development of age-related health problems such as senile cataracts, immune system damage and even some cancers so many people take Aminoguanidine to help safeguard against these.
Aminoguanidine has also been seen to reverse the effects of cross-linking that has already taken place and help to break down low density lipoprotein cholesterol in the body (aka “bad” cholesterol). This can also cause health problems if allowed to build up in the body such as thickened and narrow arteries. In this way, it has been hailed as an “ally” in the fight against bad cholesterol.
Aminoguanidine supplements such as AminoPro™ are classed as nutritional supplements as they should be taken as part of a balanced diet.
You should always contact your healthcare provider before taking anything you haven’t tried before, or if you are taking any other medications to ensure against contraindications.
