The Live Long Podcast

Jan 26, 2020

Anti-aging: Paranoia, pessimism and realism

About this episode

Do we all fret too much about growing old and potentially suffering ill health? The purpose of this podcast is to highlight lifestyle interventions that could help us live longer, healthier lives. It focusses on extending health span – the number of years that we enjoy optimum health. But could it be that such aspirations are over-rated and rather pander to paranoid personalities. Dr. Magomed Khaidakov is a research assistant professor at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the author of A Pessimistic Guide to Anti-aging Research: Death is Immortal. The book offers a critical guide to current longevity research and anti-aging interventions. In this LLAMA podcast interview with Peter Bowes, Dr Khaidakov explains his skepticism towards aging research and why he believes longevity science is dogged by “hype” and “self-promotion.”

In the episode we cover:

  • Dr. Khaidakov’s conditions for growing old.
  • Holding a pessimistic or realistic view of aging?
  • The “hype” and “self-promotion” surrounding aging research.
  • Are study results distorted through the use of obese lab animals?
  • The “sweet spot” for good health based on Body Mass Index (BMI)
  • Is an extra 10 years, which is “within design limits” of the human body, worth it?
  • Life span in years for humans, rats, mice, flies and worms (yes we know C. elegans only live days) versus health span.
  • Why every day aging and general health issues are problems that are “almost solved.”

DISCOUNTS & AFFILIATION DISCLOSURES

This podcast is supported by affiliate arrangements with a select number of companies. We have arranged discounts on certain products and receive a small commission on sales. The income helps to cover production costs and ensures that our interviews, sharing information about human longevity, remain free for all to listen. See our SHOP for more details.

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The Live Long podcast, a HealthSpan Media LLC production, shares ideas but does not offer medical advice. If you have health concerns of any kind, or you are considering adopting a new diet or exercise regime, you should consult your doctor.

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