
Longevity by Design
Longevity by Design is your go-to podcast for unlocking the secrets to a longer, healthier life. Hosted by Dr. Gil Blander, a renowned scientist and entrepreneur in the fields of aging, nutrition, and personalized health, this show dives into cutting-edge research and practical strategies for optimizing your healthspan and lifespan.In each episode, Dr. Blander sits down with leading longevity and health scientists to explore how we can live better, longer lives. From unpacking complex scientific concepts to sharing the latest advancements in aging research, Longevity by Design offers science-backed insights and actionable advice to help you add years to your life—and life to your years.Dr. Blander is the founder and Chief Scientific Officer of InsideTracker, a healthspan company that leverages blood tests, DNA analysis, fitness tracker data, and other biomarkers to deliver personalized health recommendations. With a Ph.D. in biology from the Weizmann Institute of Science and postdoctoral research at MIT, Dr. Blander brings decades of expertise and passion to every conversation.Tune in to Longevity by Design and discover how to live a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life.
Latest episodes

5 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 49min
GLP-1, Wearables & Longevity: What You Need to Know – AMA with Gil & Ashley
Discover the potential of GLP-1 agonists, originally created for diabetes, now revolutionizing weight management and longevity. Learn how these drugs affect appetite, metabolism, and heart health. The conversation also explores the benefits of wearable tech like Apple Watch and Oura Ring, which enhance health tracking and fall prevention, particularly in older adults. With insights on personalized health strategies and the future of medical devices, this discussion emphasizes informed decision-making for better longevity and wellness.

Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 19min
Muscle, Longevity, and the Power of Protein with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon
In this episode of Longevity by Design, host Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, a board-certified family physician and New York Times bestselling author of Forever Strong. Gabrielle discusses the growing epidemic of sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength, accelerated by the use of GLP-1 medications. She emphasizes the importance of muscle health for overall longevity and introduces the concept of "muscle span."Gil and Gabrielle explore the critical role of skeletal muscle as a metabolically active organ, its impact on longevity, and the best ways to build and maintain muscle throughout life. They delve into the public's misconception of prioritizing today's needs over tomorrow's health, highlighting the need for preventative measures like strength training. The conversation touches upon the complexities of protein consumption, emphasizing the importance of meeting daily protein goals and the often-overlooked nutritional needs for healthy aging.Finally, they address common misconceptions regarding hormone replacement therapy and the importance of prioritizing muscle-centric medicine. This episode offers actionable insights and valuable knowledge for anyone seeking to optimize their health and longevity through a deeper understanding of muscle health.Guest-at-a-Glance💡 Name: Dr. Gabrielle Lyon 💡What they do: N/A💡Company: Dr. Gabrielle Lyon💡Noteworthy: Physician and New York Times bestselling author specializing in muscle-centric medicine and longevity.💡 Where to find them: LinkedIn, Instagram Episode highlights:[01:09] Meet Dr. Gabrielle Lyon[06:09] The Importance of Muscle Health[09:37] Writing and Impact of 'Forever Strong'[14:45] The Role of Skeletal Muscle[21:54] Building and Maintaining Muscle[26:40] The New Epidemic: Muscle Loss[30:22] Optimizing Health with InsideTracker[39:41] The Importance of Healthy Skeletal Muscle[43:03] The Reality of Aging and Taking Action[45:43] Hormone Replacement Therapy: A Controversial Topic[53:52] Understanding Dietary Protein[01:00:23] Protein Consumption and Distribution[01:03:33] The Role of Animal-Based Products in Human Health[01:15:55] Supplements for Muscle Building and Health[01:17:51] Top Tips for Health Span and LongevityFor science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast

Mar 5, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Science, Evolution, and Future of Lifespan and Healthspan with Dr. Michael Ringel
On this episode of Longevity by Design, Dr. Gil Blander speaks with Dr. Michael Ringel, COO of Life Biosciences, about the science of aging and longevity. Michael discusses how evolution influences lifespan and why aging occurs. He explains the trade-off between resource allocation for reproduction versus maintenance and repair within the body. Caloric restriction and its effects on lifespan are explored through an evolutionary lens.Michael highlights the challenges and breakthroughs in longevity research. He touches upon the role of genetics and pharmaceuticals in manipulating lifespan and healthspan. He points to the Pacific rockfish as an example of varying lifespans within a closely related group of species, demonstrating the genetic component of aging. He also notes the impact of Cell reprogramming, referencing a study on how specific Cell reprogramming can regenerate optic nerves.The conversation shifts to the business of longevity, where Michael discusses the increased interest and investments from big pharma and billionaires. He examines the economic benefits of extending healthspan, citing a potential value of $300 trillion from a 10-year healthspan extension in the US alone. Michael and Gil also explore the importance of lifestyle choices for healthy aging, emphasizing diet, exercise, sleep, stress management, and social connections.Guest-at-a-Glance💡 Name: Dr. Michael Ringel 💡What they do: COO💡Company: Life Biosciences💡Noteworthy: Biotechnology COO bridging science and business for longevity breakthroughs.💡 Where to find them: LinkedIn Episode highlights:[00:00:56] Meet Dr. Michael Ringel[00:02:30] Journey to Becoming a Scientist[00:04:26] Interest in Longevity and Aging[00:07:59] Evolution and Aging[00:21:04] Caloric Restriction and Lifespan[00:25:07] InsideTracker: Personalized Healthspan Optimization[00:26:02] Pharma's Role in Aging Research[00:37:32] Understanding Causality in Medical Research[00:38:09] Challenges of Observational Studies[00:39:40] Experimental Studies and the TAME Trial[00:40:21] Pharmaceutical Incentives and Metformin[00:40:56] Exploring Rapalogs and Patent Issues[00:43:39] Hallmarks of Aging and Future Prospects[00:45:59] Investment in Aging Research[00:52:35] Economic and Social Impacts of Longevity[01:02:30] Practical Tips for Extending Lifespan For science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast

16 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 10min
How Long Can Humans Live? Insights from Dr. Jay Olshansky
In this engaging discussion, Dr. S. Jay Olshansky, a professor specializing in aging and biodemography, sheds light on the biological limits of human longevity. He reveals how advancements in public health have dramatically increased life expectancy, yet gains are slowing. The conversation dives into the intricate relationship between genetics and lifestyle choices, as well as societal factors affecting longevity. Dr. Olshansky emphasizes the importance of sustainable health practices over pharmaceutical fixes, offering practical tips for enhancing both lifespan and healthspan.

Feb 5, 2025 • 1h 52min
Precision Longevity Medicine with Dr. David Barzilai
Can personalized medicine unlock the secrets to living longer and healthier lives? In this episode of Longevity by Design, host Dr. Gil Blander sits down with Dr. David Barzilai, a renowned longevity physician and founder of Barzilai Longevity Consulting, to explore the science of extending healthspan through precision and innovation.Dr. Barzilai shares his journey into biogerontology and longevity science, unpacking key concepts like the hallmarks of aging, the potential of lifestyle interventions, and the translation of findings from animal models to human health. He highlights how evidence-based lifestyle medicine—centered on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and stress management—can be tailored to individual needs using biomarker-driven strategies for maximum impact.The conversation delves into some of the most promising longevity interventions, from gerotherapeutics to cutting-edge supplements. Dr. Barzilai emphasizes the power of personalized approaches in optimizing healthspan and lifespan, offering listeners practical, science-backed insights to take charge of their longevity journey.Engaging and informative, this episode is essential listening for anyone curious about the future of longevity medicine and the innovations shaping how we age. Guest-at-a-Glance💡 Name: Dr. David Barzilai, MD, PhD💡What he does: Founder and CEO💡Company: Healthspan Coaching LLC💡Noteworthy: Renowned longevity physician integrating science and personalized health strategies.💡 Where to find them: LinkedIn, Twitter Episode highlights:Introduction: 00:00:00Dr. Barzilai’s Journey into Science: 00:03:43The Importance of Translating Science into Practice: 00:10:00The Role of Social Media in Longevity Science: 00:16:37Defining Biogerontology: 00:22:32Understanding the Hallmarks of Aging: 00:24:27The Role of Lifestyle Medicine in Preventing Premature Mortality: 00:36:13Caloric Restriction and Its Effects on Lifespan: 00:37:33Human Trials and the Challenges of Compliance: 00:41:13The Potential of Rapamycin and mTOR Inhibitors: 00:42:05The Importance of Lifestyle Medicine: 00:51:25Precision Medicine: Tailoring Health Interventions: 01:02:56GLP-1 and Alcohol Absorption: 01:12:30Exercise and Mortality Reduction: 01:15:33Biomarkers and Metabolic Health: 01:19:38Longevity Drugs and Supplements: 01:25:43Epigenetic Reprogramming and Aging: 01:45:06For science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast

Jan 22, 2025 • 56min
How Can a Nutrition AI Platform Help Us Live Healthier and Longer Lives with Dr. Dmitriy Richard Starson
Dr. Dmitriy Richard Starson, Founder and CEO of Passio, discusses his fascinating journey from astrophysics to creating an AI nutrition coaching platform. He details how Passio's technology revolutionizes food tracking through AI-driven tools like food scanning and voice logging. Dmitriy envisions a future where personalized nutrition is as common as fitness tracking, potentially slowing aging. He addresses the importance of accurate dietary data and the synergy between AI and human expertise in enhancing health outcomes.

Jan 8, 2025 • 54min
The Path to a 1,000-Year Lifespan with Dr. Aubrey de Grey
In this episode of Longevity by Design, our host Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. Aubrey de Grey, a biomedical gerontologist, to explore the frontiers of aging research and lifespan extension. Dr. de Grey shares his work identifying and addressing the seven major categories of aging-related diseases. He discusses how targeted damage repair offers a promising alternative to traditional methods to slow aging, providing a path to longer, healthier lives.The conversation delves into the hallmarks of aging, their implications for medical research, and the challenges of translating results from animal models to human applications. Dr. de Grey emphasizes the importance of combining multiple interventions, such as senolytics, gene therapy, and stem cell treatments, to achieve significant gains in lifespan. He also shares insights from his work with the LEV Foundation and the Methuselah Foundation.Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the science behind rejuvenation and the potential for humanity to reach longevity escape velocity within the coming decades. Dr. de Grey underscores the critical role of continued research, innovation, and funding in accelerating progress toward defeating aging-related diseases. Episode highlights:Introduction: 00:00:00The Seven Hallmarks of Aging: A Foundational Framework: 00:07:00Challenges in Funding Longevity Research: 00:15:00Lifestyle, Genetics, and the Limits of Current Longevity: 00:23:00The Methuselah Foundation and Early Longevity Advocacy: 00:37:00Top tip to improve healthspan: 00:52:00We Appreciate You!As a token of our gratitude, we’re excited to offer you 15% off your next purchase. Simply click the link below to redeem your discount: https://info.insidetracker.com/podcastFor science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast

Dec 18, 2024 • 37min
Dietary Changes to Reduce the Risk of Prostate Cancer with Dr. John Erdman
On this episode of Longevity by Design, Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. John Erdman to discuss prostate cancer and the impact of diet on disease progression. John shares his personal connection to this disease and why he’s dedicated his research to understanding dietary interventions.John explains that prostate cancer is often slow-growing, with most men experiencing decades between early mutations and noticeable tumor growth. He stresses the importance of early detection through regular checkups, including digital exams and PSA tests. While the medical community debates the effectiveness of these tests, John advocates for establishing a baseline to monitor for any sudden changes.John's research reveals a strong link between tomato consumption and reduced prostate cancer risk. He believes this protective effect stems from lycopene and its metabolites, which may influence gene expression. John emphasizes that while tomato consumption shows promise, maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise are equally crucial for long-term health. Episode highlights:Introduction: 00:00:00The Stages and Progression of Prostate Cancer: 00:06:00Diagnosing Prostate Cancer: Methods and Considerations: 00:11:00The Role of Specific Foods in Prostate Cancer Risk Reduction: 00:22:00Exploring the Link Between Gut Microbes and Prostate Cancer: 00:30:00Top tip to improve healthspan: 00:34:00For science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast

Dec 4, 2024 • 1h 23min
Unlocking Longevity: Dr. Jens Juul Holst on GLP-1’s Life-Changing Impact on Metabolic Health
In this episode of Longevity by Design, Dr. Gil Blander welcomes Dr. Jens Juul Holst, a renowned Danish physician and physiologist, to discuss GLP-1, a hormone transforming our understanding of metabolic health. Dr. Holst, who discovered and described GLP-1, explains its role as a gut-derived hormone that regulates appetite, insulin secretion, and digestion, offering a groundbreaking approach to managing obesity and type 2 diabetes.The conversation explores how GLP-1 receptor agonists, have evolved into powerful medications. These drugs help patients achieve significant weight loss, reverse diabetes, improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, and potentially enhance cognitive function. Dr. Holst delves into their long-term implications for preventing diabetes, extending health spans, and even reducing the risks of obesity-related cancers and improving fertility.Dr. Holst emphasizes that while GLP-1 offers life-changing benefits, sustainable health still hinges on balanced diets and regular physical activity. This episode provides a fascinating look at the intersection of science, medicine, and lifestyle in promoting longevity.Episode highlights:Introduction: 00:00:00What is GLP-1: 00:03:00what is a GLP-1 agonist: 00:04:15what are the target organs of the GLP-1 agonist?: 00:06:30what is the effect of the GLP-1 agonist on a diabetic patient?: 00:10:00What percentage of a diabetic patient on GLP-1 have complete remission: 00:11:30How long did it take to bring a drug to market from the moment you first discovered it: 00:23:30What is the GLP-1 effect on cognition and dementia: 00:29:00GLP-1 effect on kidney diseases: 00:32:00GLP-1 positive effect on fertility: 00:35:00GLP-1 positive effect on cancer: 00:37:30Should a patient be on GLP-1 for life: 00:41:00GLP-1 related side effects: 00:48:00GLP-1 effect on resting heart rate: 00:52:30GLP-1 related side effects: 00:48:00GLP-1 from Lilly vs novo nordisk: 00:55:00GLP-1 oral versus the injectable: 00:58:00GLP-1 effect on lifespan: 01:00:30GLP-1 effect on lifespan: 01:00:30What led you to become a scientist: 01:03:00The story of discovering the GLP-1: 01:04:30How did you successfully extend the half-life of the GLP-1 agonist: 01:09:00GLP-1 moving from once a day to once a week: 01:16:00Top tip to improve healthspan: 01:18:00GLP-1 Agonists: A Game-Changer for Diabetes and ObesityDr. Jens Juul Holst explores the revolutionary impact of GLP-1 agonists in treating diabetes and obesity. These medications mimic a natural gut hormone to regulate insulin secretion, appetite, and weight. Through their ability to normalize blood glucose levels and promote significant weight loss, GLP-1 agonists have transformed the lives of patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity. Holst highlights their success in enabling over 50% of diabetes patients to achieve normal glucose levels while addressing the systemic health risks tied to obesity. This innovation represents a monumental leap in metabolic disease management. For science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast

16 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 48min
Food Fermentation and Its Effect on Healthspan with Dr. Jacob Allen and Dr. Mike Miller
Dr. Jacob Allen, an expert in exercise physiology and microbiology, joins Dr. Mike Miller, a food scientist specializing in lactic acid bacteria. Together, they unravel the intriguing science of fermentation and its health benefits. They discuss how lactic acid fermentation can reduce inflammation and potentially enhance longevity. The duo emphasizes the importance of choosing fermented foods wisely and explains the difference between probiotics and live cultures. They also share tips for home fermentation, making healthy eating accessible and fun.
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