
Health Longevity Secrets
A podcast to transform your health and longevity with evidence-based lifestyle modifications and other tools to prevent and even reverse the most disruptive diseases. We feature topics including longevity, fasting, ketosis, biohacking, Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, stroke, cancer, consciousness, and much more so that you can find out the latest proven methods to optimize your life. It’s a mix of interviews, special co-hosts, and solo shows that you’re not going to want to miss. Hit subscribe and get ready to change your life. HLS is hosted by Robert Lufkin MD, a physician/medical school professor and New York Times Bestselling author focusing on the applied science of health and longevity through lifestyle and other tools in order to cultivate consciousness, and live life to the fullest .'Envision a world of love, abundance, and generosity'.
Latest episodes

Jun 24, 2025 • 1h 2min
Spermidine: The Autophagy Activator with Dr Melissa Cano
As we near the end of the school year, I'd like to give a shoutout to Mr George Gaskin's 7th grade history class at Harvard-Westlake School who are fans of this program. Have you ever wondered what keeps your cells functioning properly? The answer might be a molecule with a funny name but serious implications for longevity. Spermidine, found in every living cell on Earth, is essential for triggering autophagy—your body's internal cleaning system that recycles damaged cellular components.Biochemist Dr. Melissa Cano takes us deep into the fascinating world of cellular metabolism, explaining how this small but mighty molecule could be key to healthier aging. Our spermidine levels naturally decline as we age, precisely when we need its protective effects most. This decline happens through three pathways: diminished internal production, changes in gut microbiome, and potentially decreased absorption from food—creating a perfect storm for cellular aging.What makes this conversation particularly compelling is the growing body of evidence supporting spermidine's role in longevity. Epidemiological studies show people with higher dietary spermidine intake live 5-10 years longer on average. In lab studies, supplementation extends lifespan in multiple organisms by 5-20%. A groundbreaking 2024 study in Nature Cell Biology even revealed that spermidine mediates many of fasting's benefits—suggesting this molecule could be a natural caloric restriction mimetic without the hunger.Whether you're already familiar with longevity compounds like rapamycin and metformin or just beginning your healthy aging journey, this episode offers practical insights for everyone. Ready to support your body's natural cleaning and rejuvenation processes? Learn how this remarkable molecule works at the cellular level and discover if spermidine supplementation might be the missing piece in your longevity strategy.This episode is sponsored by SpermidineLife whose products are mentioned in the program. Use promo code ROB15 for discount. https://spermidinelife.us/products/spermidinelife-extra-dietary-supplement?utm_source=Lufkin&utm_medium=podcastLies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

Jun 17, 2025 • 45min
How Food Affects Mental Health with Dr Christopher Palmer
Dr. Christopher Palmer is a friend and regular guest on this program and he never disappoints. This week he takes us on a fascinating journey through the groundbreaking connection between metabolism and mental health, revealing how the foods we eat profoundly impact not just our bodies but our minds. As a Harvard psychiatrist and director of the Metabolic and Mental Health Program at McLean Hospital, Chris shares compelling evidence that many psychiatric conditions may fundamentally be disorders of brain energy.The conversation opens with alarming statistics about our growing mental health crisis - from quadrupling autism rates to skyrocketing depression and anxiety - and connects these trends to parallel increases in metabolic diseases like diabetes and obesity. Chris explains how these seemingly separate epidemics share common biological roots in cellular energy production.Most powerfully, Chris shares transformative case studies from his clinical practice, including a patient with treatment-resistant schizoaffective disorder whose hallucinations and delusions improved dramatically on a ketogenic diet. These experiences aren't isolated incidents but reflect a growing body of research suggesting ketogenic diets can beneficially alter brain chemistry by improving mitochondrial function - the cellular powerhouses responsible for energy production.The discussion extends beyond serious mental illness to everyday struggles like burnout, anxiety, and depression. An orthopedic surgeon contemplating early retirement due to severe burnout completely revitalized his passion for medicine through metabolic interventions - highlighting how energy deficits at the cellular level manifest as psychological symptoms that conventional treatments often fail to address.Visit brainenergy.com to access free resources, take Dr. Palmer's self-assessment, and learn more about the revolutionary field of metabolic psychiatry that's offering new hope to millions suffering from treatment-resistant mental health conditions.This episode is sponsored by Rio.life which emphasizes metabolically healthy food choices in their programs. I am an advisor to Rio but I only advise companies that I believe in and would use for myself and my family. brainenergy.com rio.lifeLies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

Jun 10, 2025 • 37min
Is There a Central Aging Clock with Dr. Sheldon Jordan
This week we are broadcasting a fascinating presentation from my good friend Dr Shelly Jordan where he discusses not only the importance of a central aging clock but also a possible treatment to reset it. He has even offered the procedure to me. Please let me know if you think I should take him up on his offer.This presentation is from the most recent RAADFEST meeting which is set to take place again in Las Vegas on July 10-13. You won't want to miss it!We get to unlock the secrets of aging with the intriguing insights of Dr. Sheldon Jordan, a distinguished neurologist and professor. We journey through the concept of the "Grim Reaper clock," exploring how a central brain clock might dictate the course of our lives, from puberty to menopause and beyond. Through the thoughtful lens of the "grandma hypothesis," we ponder how slow aging could have provided humans an edge in adapting to environmental shifts.Prepare to challenge what you think you know about aging as we navigate the intricate relationship between age and performance. Why might athletes and intellectuals peak so early, and what role do the hypothalamus and pineal gland play in maintaining our youth? Learn about the groundbreaking research by Dr. Kai, potentially reversing aging by using exosomes in mice, and explore innovative techniques like genetic reprogramming and ultrasound technology to influence mental health. We consider how transposons might impact age-related diseases and discuss the tantalizing possibility of controlling the aging process itself. This episode offers a glimpse into a future where medical science could redefine what it means to grow old.https://www.neurologysantamonica.com/https://www.raadfest.com/Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 1min
Quantum Leadership with Dr Stephen Sideroff
This week we are co-broadcasting the premiere episode of a new podcast series entitled Quantum Leadership. It is helmed by Dr Stephen Sideroff, a dear friend and one of my first podcast guests as well as the cohost of several of our episodes. It is a true pleasure to share this episode of his new podcast in its entirely this week. Please let us know how you like it and if you would like to see more of these. Steve interviews Ralph Gonsalves, Prime Minister of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This conversation unveils the profound dimensions of leadership that transcend conventional theories in this riveting conversation. With eloquence born from decades of service, he dismantles the myth that leaders must come from privilege, sharing his journey from a barefoot village boy to becoming his nation's longest-serving Prime Minister.Gonsalves articulates a compelling leadership framework built on energy, will, vision, skill, and what he terms "the X factor" – the rare ability to draw out qualities from people they don't yet recognize in themselves. This capacity to uncover "hidden rationalities" and untapped potential within communities stands at the heart of transformative leadership.The conversation extends to healing collective trauma through conscious leadership, highlighting efforts to reclaim Balliceaux Island—a site of indigenous genocide—and advance reparations for historical injustices. These initiatives reflect Gonsalves' understanding that leadership must address both material development and psychological healing, ultimately working toward creating "whole daughters and whole sons out of the compromise that history has made us all."Listen now to experience leadership wisdom that challenges conventional thinking and offers a more holistic, love-centered approach to creating positive change.https://drstephensideroff.com/Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

May 27, 2025 • 53min
The Ozempic Revolution with Dr Alexandra Sowa
What if everything you thought you knew about weight management was wrong? Dr. Alexandra Sowa, board-certified internist and obesity medicine specialist, challenges conventional wisdom in this eye-opening conversation about the true nature of obesity and the revolutionary medications transforming its treatment.This episode is sponsored by Rio.life who makes GLP-1 agonists available in their programs. I am an advisor to Rio but I only advise companies that I believe in and would use for myself and my family. The standard advice of "eat less, exercise more" has failed generations of patients because it fundamentally misunderstands obesity as a willpower problem rather than what it truly is—a disease of neurohormonal dysregulation. Our modern environment, particularly our food system, has damaged the delicate balance between our brains and hormones, making sustainable weight management virtually impossible for most people through behavioral changes alone.Enter GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro. These synthetic versions of hormones our bodies naturally produce are revolutionizing treatment by addressing the underlying dysfunction. Working throughout the body—in the brain, stomach, and pancreas—they reset hormonal signals, reduce inflammation, and stabilize blood sugar. Perhaps most remarkably, they transform food cravings at the genetic level, making healthy choices feel natural rather than punishing.The benefits extend far beyond weight loss. Recent studies show these medications can prevent heart attacks and strokes, slow dementia progression, treat sleep apnea, and even help with addiction disorders. Dr. Sowa calls them "longevity medications" with potential to add healthy years to patients' lives by reducing systemic inflammation and improving metabolic health.Ready to understand the science behind today's most talked-about medications and their potential to transform not just individual health but society's approach to metabolic disease? This conversation offers both practical guidance for patients and a vision for how we might reimagine our relationship with food, weight, and health.https://www.rio.life/ https://getsowell.com/Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

May 20, 2025 • 54min
Going Menopostal with Amy Alkon
Amy Alkon's eight-year scientific deep dive into menopause began with a hot flash that felt like being "locked in a trunk in the Everglades." What followed was a shocking discovery of the vast gap between medical practice and scientific evidence in women's health care.As a self-described "science mole rat" without medical training but with rigorous research skills, Alkon uncovered critical distinctions between perimenopause and menopause that most doctors overlook. Perimenopause isn't simply "menopause light" but a unique hormonal state where estrogen often spikes dramatically while progesterone becomes deficient. This explains why many women experience rage, brain fog, insomnia, and other mysterious symptoms their doctors frequently dismiss.Through compelling personal anecdotes and accessible explanations of complex hormonal processes, Alkon reveals how medical institutions are failing women during this transition. Most gynecologists receive virtually no specialized training in menopause management, leaving millions of women misdiagnosed or untreated. Her frustrating battle to obtain proper medication—oral micronized progesterone rather than synthetic alternatives with harmful side effects—highlights how women must often become their own health advocates.Going Menopostal: What You (and Your Doctor) Need to Know About the Real Science of Menopause and Perimenopause (which is being published today) equips readers with the scientific understanding and practical tools to navigate a medical system that often gaslights women. Download a free chapter at amyalkon.net and discover how evidence-based approaches can transform your experience of menopause from a medical mystery into an empowered new chapter of life.amyalkon.netLies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

May 13, 2025 • 45min
Metabolic Freedom with Ben Azadi
What if your body wasn't designed to be sick? What if those nagging symptoms you've been fighting aren't problems at all, but messages—your body's desperate attempt to communicate that something deeper needs attention?In this revealing conversation, metabolic health expert and my good friend Ben Azadi introduces his new book "Metabolic Freedom," explaining why an astonishing 93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy and what we can do about it. Rather than focusing on niche approaches like strict keto or extended fasting, Azadi presents a comprehensive framework accessible to everyone, addressing the five root causes behind metabolic dysfunction.One of the most alarming revelations? You could have full-blown insulin resistance for 6-14 years while still showing "perfect" blood sugar readings on standard tests. Your pancreas compensates by pumping out massive amounts of insulin until it simply can't keep up anymore. By then, you're already deep in the disease process. Ben makes a compelling case for requesting fasting insulin tests rather than relying solely on glucose measurements that miss this critical early warning.The conversation explores how true metabolic freedom means having a body that can effortlessly use whatever fuel is available—carbs, protein, fat, or stored body fat—to generate steady energy without constant snacking or stimulants. Ben breaks down the powerful healing cascade that happens during fasting, from completed digestion at 14 hours to enhanced cellular cleanup (autophagy) at 16-17 hours and increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor at the 24-hour mark.Beyond food timing, we look at the devastating impact of environmental toxins he classifies as "obesogens" and "diabetogens"—compounds found in everything from plastic containers to cash register receipts that directly promote weight gain and blood sugar dysfunction. Whether you're just beginning your health journey or deeply familiar with metabolic concepts, this conversation offers practical wisdom for reclaiming your body's natural state of health through a 30-day plan designed to restore your metabolic freedom.https://www.benazadi.com/Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

13 snips
May 6, 2025 • 57min
Fasting Against Cancer with Dr Katie Deming
Dr. Katie Deming, a former radiation oncologist turned advocate for alternative cancer treatments, reveals how cancer may be a metabolic condition rather than solely genetic. She discusses the impact of ketogenic diets and supervised water fasting in targeting cancer cells by cutting off their primary fuel, glucose. Alongside physical healing, she highlights fasting's transformative emotional and spiritual benefits. Listeners learn about the holistic advantages of fasting and its potential as a complementary therapy alongside conventional cancer treatments.

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 6min
Molecular Hydrogen: Breakthrough or Hype?
Could a simple molecule be the key to resolving seemingly incurable health conditions? Greg shares his remarkable journey from facing imminent death to complete recovery using molecular hydrogen therapy. After conventional medicine failed to treat his tumors, severe heart condition, and debilitating autoimmune issues, Greg's desperate search led him to discover what he believes to be the profound healing potential of properly administered molecular hydrogen.Unlike conventional antioxidants, molecular hydrogen (H2) is thought to work selectively in the body—including on the mitochondria, where many diseases originate. Greg explains how hydrogen's uniquely small molecular size allows it to penetrate any cell in the body, crossing the blood-brain barrier and working at the cellular level to reduce inflammation, improve nutrient absorption, and restore proper function to various systems.Greg shares remarkable case studies, from a woman with dementia who regained her ability to recognize family members to patients with supposedly permanent heart conditions seeing complete reversals. More work is clearly needed in this area of evidence to move beyond anecdotal case reports to clinical trials. We explore the science behind different hydrogen delivery methods, why production quality matters tremendously, and practical protocols anyone can implement. Greg offers valuable guidance on avoiding inferior products that might introduce harmful byproducts while explaining how proper hydrogen therapy might be the missing piece in your health journey.Whether you're battling chronic health issues or simply interested in optimizing your wellness and longevity, this episode challenges conventional thinking about healing and recovery. We are at the beginning of understanding the science behind molecular hydrogen therapy and will be paying close attention as this story continues to unfold.This episode was sponsored by holyhydrogen.com maker of one of the devices described in this show. https://holyhydrogen.com/Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...

Apr 22, 2025 • 39min
Why Calories Don't Count with Dr Giles Yeo
Dr. Giles Yeo, Cambridge University Professor, author of "Why Calories Don't Count," and Chief Science Advisor at Rio demolishes weight management myths with scientific precision and personal warmth. This mind-shifting conversation reveals why blaming people for obesity fundamentally misunderstands human biology. Full disclosure: I am also an advisor for Rio but I only work with companies I believe in and would use for myself and my family.Bold scientific insights abound as Dr. Yeo reveals why simple calorie counting fails. Rather than fixating on calories, he advocates understanding how different foods affect our bodies uniquely, making a compelling case for cooking at home with quality ingredients as his personal health strategy.The discussion ventures into today's most transformative weight management tools, with Dr. Yeo describing GLP-1 medications as the most effective treatment options he's encountered in 30 years of obesity research. These medications signal fullness to the brain, but surprisingly affect other reward-seeking behaviors too - from alcohol consumption to addictive tendencies. The conversation explores fascinating frontiers in brain science, including Dr. Yeo's groundbreaking work mapping human hypothalamus feeding circuits, and examines how AI-assisted health applications might revolutionize personalized nutrition. Throughout, his compassionate message resonates: obesity isn't a character flaw - it's the result of biological and environmental factors that require understanding, not judgment. Discover why this disco-dancing geneticist believes personalized approaches, not quick fixes, are the future of health optimization.https://rio.life/Lies I Taught In Medical School : Free sample chapter- https://www.robertlufkinmd.com/lies/Complete Metabolic Heart Scan (20% off 'LUFKIN20') https://www.innerscopic.com/Fasting Mimicking Diet (20% off) https://prolonlife.com/Lufkin At home blood testing (15% off)https://pathlongevity.com/Mimio Health (15% off 'LUFKIN') https://mimiohealth.sjv.io/c/5810114/2745519/30611 Web: https://robertlufkinmd.com/X: https://x.com/robertlufkinmdYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/robertLufkinmdInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/robertlufkinmd/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertlufkinmd/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robertlufkinmd Threads: https://www.threads.net/@robertlufkinmdBluesky: ...