What if you could live to be 100 years old and still be healthy and active? Few have a pulse on the science and genetics of aging like Dr. Nir Barzilai, the director of the Institute of Aging Research at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine. Dr. Barzilai was the first to discover the “longevity gene” in humans, and his ongoing research has shed light on why centenarians with protective genes live longer, healthier lives with fewer age-related diseases.
In our recent conversation, Dr. Barzilai and I discussed the correlation between genes, lifestyle, and the resilience of predictable longevity™. By understanding this connection, we can optimize our well-being and enjoy longer, healthier lives. Here are some of the topics we explored:
- The barriers to predictable longevity™: Dr. Barzilai explained the misconceptions of aging and why we need to shift our focus away from preventing sickness and towards optimizing our well-being. He emphasized that aging is not a disease and that we need to start thinking about it in a new way.
- The genetic code of centenarians: Dr. Barzilai shared his insights into the genetic code of centenarians and how these protective genes allow them to live longer, healthier lives. He explained how these genes could be used to develop new therapies and treatments for age-related diseases.
- The lifestyle habits that delay aging: Dr. Barzilai highlighted some of the lifestyle habits that can help delay aging, such as exercise, a healthy diet, and social connections. He also discussed the importance of sleep and stress management in promoting longevity.
By understanding the science and genetics of aging, we can take charge of our health and optimize our well-being. With Dr. Barzilai’s insights and ongoing research, we have a better understanding of how to achieve predictable longevity™ and enjoy longer, healthier lives.