HRT, Stem Cells, & Nitric Oxide: What This Longevity Expert Wants You To Know

Have you ever wondered what it takes not only to live longer but better? Well, my conversation on the mindbodygreen podcast with longevity expert Amy Killen, M.D., has the answers. Killen shares her expertise on hormone health, cutting-edge therapies, and what women should include in their "longevity stack."

Killen, a former ER physician turned regenerative physician, dives into the science behind hormone replacement therapy (HRT), stem cells, and nitric oxide. She also shares various treatments aimed at improving sexual health, skin care, and overall well-being.

Let’s start with the basics. There are well-researched, practical habits you can incorporate into your daily routine right now that pack a serious punch for longevity.

Killen highlights the benefits of creatine supplementation, HIIT, VO2 max training, and weightlifting. These help maintain muscle mass, support brain function, and improve cardiovascular health—key components for a long and vibrant life.

From here, Killen expands the longevity stack to include lesser-known but highly impactful treatments and therapies.

Hormone health is foundational for longevity, especially for women. And, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the most effective interventions for maintaining energy, cognitive function, and overall vitality.

With age, hormone levels naturally decline, and many women begin to notice imbalances in their 40s. Symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, weight gain, and low libido can creep in, but by tracking and optimizing hormones early, these issues can be addressed head-on. 

Killen emphasizes that today’s HRT options, particularly bioidentical hormones, are highly effective. These hormones are chemically identical to those produced by the body, allowing them to integrate smoothly into your body's systems. Whether you prefer pills, creams, patches, or injections, there’s an HRT option that can seamlessly fit into your routine.

When it comes to the future of medicine, stem cell therapy is on the cutting edge. So, what exactly are stem cells? These unique cells are like the body’s maintenance crew, responsible for keeping tissues and organs in top shape.

What makes them so special is that they can replicate themselves and transform into different types of cells, helping to repair and rejuvenate various tissues throughout the body. Stem cells even direct the healing process, speeding up recovery from injuries and wear and tear.

As we age, however, our natural supply of stem cells dwindles, and the ones we do have become less active. Think of how quickly a scraped knee heals on a child versus an adult—the difference comes down to stem cell activity.

Have you ever heard of nitric oxide? This tiny molecule is one of Killen’s secret weapons for improving longevity. Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels, improving circulation and supporting everything from brain function to sexual health.

Unfortunately, our nitric oxide levels naturally decline with age, so by the time we hit 40, our levels are about half of what they were in our 20s.

Luckily, there are ways to boost nitric oxide production. Killen suggests eating nitrate-rich foods like beets and leafy greens, exercising regularly, and using red light therapy to stimulate production.

For youthful skin, strong bones, and a healthy glow, Killen swears by a few targeted therapies. She recommends collagen peptides to help maintain elasticity and structure. Women going through perimenopause benefit especially from collagen, as it supports bone health and skin integrity during hormone fluctuations.

Red light therapy is another favorite in the toolbox. Backed by research, red light therapy boosts collagen production, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing. Whether for skin health or injury recovery, this non-invasive treatment can make a noticeable difference over time.

From hormone health to stem cells and nitric oxide, Amy Killen’s ultimate longevity formula is packed with practical, science-backed tips to help you live longer and feel better. By building a strong foundation with lifestyle habits like exercise and creatine, and adding advanced therapies like HRT, stem cells, and red light therapy, you can optimize your health at every stage of life.