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Aug 2024
1h 24m

The Fat You Didn’t Know You Needed : 119...

Dave Asprey
About this episode

In this episode of The Human Upgrade, Dave Asprey is joined by Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson, a veterinary epidemiologist and co-founder of Seraphina Therapeutics, to explore the groundbreaking discovery of C15, also known as Pentadecanoic acid. This episode uncovers how Dr. Venn-Watson's work with aging dolphins in the U.S. Navy led to the surprising revelation that C15 is an essential fatty acid, marking the first discovery of its kind in nearly a century. Through extensive research, C15 has shown powerful benefits for longevity, reducing inflammation, and promoting cellular health, which can help prevent chronic conditions like metabolic syndrome and heart disease. 

Dr. Venn-Watson explains the science behind C15, its natural sources—such as grass-fed dairy and certain types of fish—and why it’s often missing from modern low-fat diets. She also dives into the clinical studies that reveal how C15 can stabilize cell membranes, reduce oxidative stress, and improve metabolic function. The episode emphasizes the importance of this ‘new’ fat for anyone seeking to optimize their health, whether through diet or supplementation. 

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Timestamps and Highlights

  • 00:00:01 — Introduction by Dave Asprey 
  • 00:01:02 — Dr. Stephanie Venn-Watson’s Introduction 
  • 00:03:15 — The Discovery of C15 
  • 00:05:56 — C15 in Fish and Dairy 
  • 00:08:03 — C15’s Role in Longevity and Cellular Health 
  • 00:12:35 — Clinical Studies and Health Benefits 
  • 00:20:12 — C15 and Vegan Diets 


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