While many people dream of becoming centenarians or await technological breakthroughs to reverse aging altogether, foundational lifestyle and behavioral protocols remain the most effective strategies for promoting healthy longevity.

To manage senescence, physician and longevity expert Dr. Peter Attia discussed the role of sirtuins, a family of proteins involved in aging and maintaining cellular health. Activating sirtuins can have several beneficial effects, such as enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis “synthesis,” improving DNA repair, and reducing the harmful products of senescent cells. Exercise and fasting naturally enhance sirtuin levels, and sirtuin activation has been shown to be enhanced by molecules like NAD and resveratrol, however more research is needed to determine if supplementing NAD (or precursors NMN or NR) positively affects lifespan.

Managing inflammation is seen as another key factor in promoting longevity. A low-inflammatory diet primarily consists of unprocessed or minimally processed foods, including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats and quality protein sources. Living a lower inflammatory lifestyle includes reducing exposure to toxins, getting adequate sleep, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption and managing chronic conditions like diabetes. These changes are important, even in old age, for enhancing overall health and delaying processes that lead to dysfunction and decline.