SuperAgers Study Finds Lifestyle Key to Longevity Not Genetics

In 2007, researchers embarked on a mission to understand the factors contributing to the phenomenon of “SuperAgers”—individuals who live into their 80s without major chronic conditions and maintain the brain health of someone much younger. The study, conducted by the Scripps Research Translational Institute, aimed to determine whether genetics, lifestyle, or luck played the most significant role.

Nearly two decades later, the research team was surprised by their findings. Dr. Eric Topol, a cardiologist and founder of the institute, revealed that the study did not uncover the expected genetic variants. Instead, the cohort of over 1,000 individuals, with an average age of 87, known as “the wellderly,” highlighted the importance of lifestyle factors in achieving longevity.

“There’s only a small component here that’s actually genetic. It’s been overestimated,” Topol stated. This revelation was personally reassuring for Topol, given his family history of illness. His latest book, Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity, compiles decades of research and emphasizes key factors for living longer.

In a world where longevity has become a significant wellness trend, Topol aims to cut through the noise of companies offering various scans, tests, and lifestyle hacks. He criticizes the lack of scientific basis for many of these offerings, which often include supplement subscriptions, full-body MRIs, and unproven medicines.

Topol’s focus is on reducing the risk of chronic diseases that become more common with age, rather than attempting to reverse aging or gamify longevity. His observations of SuperAgers have yielded three key takeaways:

Exercise is a fundamental pillar of health, reducing the risk of heart disease, cognitive decline, and age-related falls and frailty. Topol emphasizes that exercise is the most effective way to keep the immune system healthy and fight disease. As a cardiologist, he advocates for aerobic exercise to reduce heart disease risk and encourages strength training to counter age-related muscle and bone loss, improving balance and mobility.

The Mediterranean diet, rich in whole foods, colorful fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains, and olive oil, is the most protective against chronic diseases. Research suggests that this diet improves bone, heart, and brain health and reduces the risk of cancer. Topol advises against ultra-processed foods, which can increase the risk of chronic conditions and lead to early mortality.

Preventive screenings are crucial for identifying age-related disease risks early. Topol hopes that progressive medicine and technology will help quantify people’s risk, allowing them to take control earlier. For instance, recognizing an increased risk for Alzheimer’s through a brain clock or blood test could motivate individuals to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Topol believes that by preventing age-related diseases, significant inroads can be made in extending healthy lifespans. His research underscores the importance of lifestyle choices in achieving longevity, challenging the overestimation of genetic factors.