Sirtuin Activators and Weight Loss

1. Background and Rationale

   Sirtuins (SIRT1-SIRT7) are a family of NAD⁺-dependent enzymes involved in metabolic regulation, mitochondrial biogenesis, oxidative stress response, and inflammation control. Evidence from model organisms demonstrates that sirtuin overexpression can extend lifespan. In mammals, caloric restriction enhances sirtuin synthesis, leading to improved mitochondrial function, reduced oxidative stress, and attenuated inflammation. Collectively, these mechanisms underpin the potential role of sirtuins in promoting metabolic health and preventing non-communicable diseases.

   Numerous non-nutritive bioactive compounds naturally present in foods activate sirtuin pathways. The most extensively studied is resveratrol, found in grapes and red wine, which has been shown to stimulate SIRT1 and downstream metabolic pathways. Additional sirtuin activators include epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) from green tea, curcuminoids from turmeric, and quercetin, present in apples, grapes, and onions. Despite their presence in commonly consumed foods, typical dietary intake is low, suggesting that targeted supplementation may be necessary to achieve meaningful physiological effects-particularly in populations at metabolic risk.

   Overweight and obesity remain major public health challenges worldwide. Excess adiposity is strongly associated with chronic, low-grade inflammation and increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases. While caloric restriction remains a cornerstone of weight reduction, adjunct interventions may enhance metabolic adaptations to energy deficit. SIRT1, for example, has been shown to increase energy expenditure and shift substrate utilization toward enhanced fatty-acid oxidation. Thus, supplementation with sirtuin activators may support weight loss and metabolic improvements when combined with a hypocaloric diet.

2. Study Objective

   The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of supplementation with sirtuin activators (resveratrol, curcuminoids, EGCG, quercetin) combined with a short-term low-energy diet on:

   • body weight and body composition,
   • physical performance,
   • blood pressure,
   • biochemical and inflammatory markers in adults with overweight and obesity.

3. Study Design

   This research will employ a randomized, placebo-controlled, parallel-group design. Participants will be randomly allocated to:

   • SIRT group: receiving daily supplementation with sirtuin activators in the form of SIRTWAY powdered shakes,
   • PLA group: receiving visually identical placebo shakes without active compounds.

   Both groups will follow a structured 24-day low-energy dietary intervention. Study activities will take place between January 2026 and January 2027 at the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics, Poznań University of Life Sciences.

   Assessments will be conducted twice: baseline (Day 0) and post-intervention (Day 25).

4. Participants The study will enroll approximately 45 adults with overweight or obesity. All participants will provide written informed consent.

5. Supplementation Protocol

   Participants in the SIRT group will receive shakes containing microencapsulated sirtuin activators. The daily dose of active sirtuin activators will be approximately 1280 mg. Placebo shakes will be identical in appearance, taste, and packaging.

   All components used in the supplements have established safety profiles, including FDA GRAS status where applicable. Adverse effects documented in the literature occur only at doses significantly higher than those used in the present protocol.

6. Dietary Intervention

   The low-energy diet will consist of three sequential phases:

   • Phase 1 (Days 1-3): \~1000 kcal/day, 3 shakes + 1 solid meal
   • Phase 2 (Days 4-10): \~1450 kcal/day, 2 shakes + 2 solid meals
   • Phase 3 (Days 11-24): \~1600 kcal/day, 2 shakes + 2 solid meals

   Recipes for home-prepared meals (DASH-based) will be provided in a dedicated e-book.

7. Study Procedures 7.1. Anthropometry and Body Composition Body weight and height measured using a medical-grade RADWAG WPT 60/150 OW scale with stadiometer. Waist and hip circumferences measured with a standardized flexible anthropometric tape.Body composition assessed by air-displacement plethysmography (Bod Pod, Cosmed). All procedures follow validated protocols, with participants measured in a fasted state and wearing swimwear and a swim cap.

   7.2. Blood Pressure

   Resting blood pressure will be taken using the Omron SpotArm i-Q142 device, following 2024 ESH guidelines. Three measurements will be taken; the average of the final two will be recorded.

   7.3. Blood Sampling and Biochemistry

   Venous blood (5 mL) will be drawn twice (Day 0 and Day 25) by licensed medical staff. Serum will be processed, aliquoted, and stored at -80°C.

   7.4. Physical Performance Testing

   Conducted twice (Day 0 and Day 25) by experienced staff. Tests include:

   Handgrip strength: measured using a Kern MAP 130K1 dynamometer, three trials per hand, averaged.

   Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB): assessing lower-limb strength (chair-stand test), static balance, and gait speed over 4 meters.

   Tests are low-risk; precautionary measures will be taken to minimize falls or discomfort.

   7.5. Dietary Assessment

   Participants will complete 3-day dietary records before intervention. Intake will be analyzed using Dieta 6 software.

8. Safety Considerations

All supplements used have established safety thresholds well above the doses administered in the study. Risks related to blood sampling and physical tests are minimal and standard procedures will be followed to prevent adverse events.