Lower Inflammation for a Longer Life and Better Healthspan:
Natural Ways to Modulate Interleukin-11 (IL-11)
In a recent study, by the Journal Nature, blocking the immune protein interleukin-11 (IL-11) in middle-aged mice significantly extended their lifespan by about 25% and improved their overall health. IL-11, which promotes inflammation, was found at higher levels in older mice. When blocked, the mice exhibited enhanced metabolism and reduced frailty. The findings suggest potential longevity benefits for humans, as IL-11 inhibitors are already in clinical trials for other conditions (Widjaja, 2024). More research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, however certain herbs and lifestyle choices can lower IL-11 naturally.
What Is IL-11?
Interleukin-11 (IL-11) is a cytokine involved in various physiological processes, including hematopoiesis, immune response, and tissue repair. Dysregulation of IL-11 has been implicated in several pathologies, including fibrosis and certain cancers. This article explores natural methods to modulate IL-11 levels, focusing on dietary interventions, lifestyle modifications, and herbal supplements. Evidence from scholarly articles is presented to support these strategies.
Dietary Interventions
Understanding how to naturally modulate IL-11 levels via supplements is crucial for maintaining health and preventing disease. Below are evidence based supplements that may help lower IL-11.
Omega-3 fatty acids, primarily found in fish oil, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids can modulate cytokine production, including IL-11 (Calder, 2017). A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce IL-11 levels and mitigate its pro-fibrotic effects.
Polyphenols
Polyphenols, abundant in fruits, vegetables, and tea, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Specific polyphenols, such as resveratrol and curcumin, have been shown to influence cytokine production. Studies suggest that these compounds can reduce IL-11 levels, thereby offering potential therapeutic benefits (Rashid et al., 2017).
Astragalus membranaceus, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, has been studied for its immunomodulatory properties. Research indicates that Astragalus may influence cytokine production, including IL-11. A study by Yang et al. (2014) demonstrated that Astragalus extract could reduce IL-11 levels in animal models, suggesting its potential as a natural modulator of this cytokine.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Turmeric contains curcumin, a polyphenol with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin has been extensively studied for its effects on cytokine production. Evidence suggests that curcumin can reduce IL-11 levels, making turmeric a valuable natural supplement for modulating IL-11 (Jurenka, 2009).
Lifestyle Modifications
In addition to supplements, lifestyle modifications are equally important at lowering IL-11. The following are lifestyle factors that have been shown to lower IL-11 levels.
Physical Activity
Regular physical activity is associated with numerous health benefits, including the modulation of inflammatory cytokines. Exercise has been shown to reduce the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase anti-inflammatory cytokines. A study by Petersen and Pedersen (2015) suggests that regular exercise may help lower IL-11 levels, reducing inflammation and improving overall health.
Stress Management
Chronic stress is known to elevate inflammatory markers, including cytokines such as IL-11. Stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga, have been shown to reduce stress and modulate cytokine levels (Black & Slavich, 2016). Incorporating these practices into daily routines may help regulate IL-11 levels naturally.
Takeaway
Modulating IL-11 levels naturally can be achieved through dietary interventions, lifestyle modifications, and herbal supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, regular physical activity, stress management, Astragalus membranaceus, and turmeric are all promising strategies supported by scientific evidence. These approaches offer potential therapeutic benefits for conditions associated with IL-11 dysregulation, promoting overall health and well-being.
References
Black, D. S., & Slavich, G. M. (2016). Mindfulness meditation and the immune system: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1373(1), 13-24. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.12998
Calder, P. C. (2017). Omega-3 fatty acids and inflammatory processes: from molecules to man. Biochemical Society Transactions, 45(5), 1105-1115. https://doi.org/10.1042/BST20160474
Jurenka, J. S. (2009). Anti-inflammatory properties of curcumin, a major constituent of Curcuma longa: a review of preclinical and clinical research. Alternative Medicine Review, 14(2), 141-153.
Petersen, A. M., & Pedersen, B. K. (2015). The anti-inflammatory effect of exercise. Journal of Applied Physiology, 98(4), 1154-1162. https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.01173.2004
Rashid, K., Bhullar, K. S., & Raina, K. (2017). Role of dietary polyphenols in cancer prevention: evidence from epidemiologic studies. Nutrition and Cancer, 70(1), 1-16. https://doi.org/10.1080/01635581.2018.1521446
Sims, N. A. (2016). IL-11 and bone. Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 28, 61-67. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coph.2016.02.004
Widjaja, A. A., Singh, B. K., Adami, E., Viswanathan, S., Dong, J., D’Agostino, G. A., Boon, J., Lim, W. W., Tan, J., Paleja, B. S., Tan, J. H., Lee, H., Yee, Z., Anuar, N. N., Shekeran, S. G., Saw, T. J., Chothani, S., Felician, G., Cook, S. A., & Schafer, S. (2017). Inhibiting interleukin 11 signaling reduces hepatic stellate cell activation and liver fibrosis. Gut, 68(6), 1544-1555. https://doi.org/10.1136/gutjnl-2017-315214
Widjaja, A.A., Lim, WW., Viswanathan, S. et al. (2024). Inhibition of IL-11 signalling extends mammalian healthspan and lifespan. Nature. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-024-07701-9
Yang, Z., Yin, F., Xiong, X., Feng, Y., & Zhang, P. (2014). Astragalus membranaceus inhibits mouse cancer cell line proliferation via miR-145 upregulation. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2014, 515295. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/515295
