Drugs that activate AMPK (mimicking low cellular energy stores) are known for promoting health. Examples include the diabetes drug metformin; resveratrol, from grapes and red wine; epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), from green tea and chocolate; capsaicin from peppers; turmeric, garlic, and the traditional Chinese medical herb berberine. Calorie restriction also activates AMPK, which may explain some of its purported benefits with regard to aging.
