Tuesday, April 8, 2025

Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity and the "Four Horsemen" of chronic diseases


Dr. Peter Attia, a physician specializing in longevity, emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between lifespan—the total number of years one lives—and healthspan—the number of those years lived in good health, free from chronic diseases and disabilities. 

He advocates for prioritizing healthspan to ensure that extended years are accompanied by quality health and vitality. 



In his book Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, Attia outlines strategies to enhance both lifespan and healthspan. He identifies the "Four Horsemen" of chronic diseases—heart disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and type 2 diabetes—as primary threats to healthspan. 



To combat these, he recommends proactive measures including:

  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly strength training and cardiovascular exercises, to maintain muscle mass, cardiovascular health, and overall physical function. 

  • Nutrition: What you eat matters!  A diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, and adequate protein to support metabolic health and prevent chronic diseases. 

  • Sleep: Prioritizing quality sleep to enhance recovery, cognitive function, and overall well-being. 

  • Emotional and Mental Health: Addressing psychological well-being to reduce stress and improve life satisfaction.

  • Medications and supplements



Attia critiques the traditional reactive approach of mainstream medicine, which often focuses on treating diseases after they arise. Instead, he advocates for a proactive, preventive strategy that emphasizes early intervention and lifestyle modifications to delay or prevent the onset of chronic conditions. 

For a more in-depth exploration of these concepts, you might find this video informative:

Also: Social and Cognitive measurements are vital.



Some quotes from Dr. Attia:

Add life to years instead of years to life. - Peter Attia 

You are less fragile than you believe. - Peter Attia

Nothing hurts your back more than inactivity. Sitting is the worst. - Peter Attia 

Being active will make you feel better. - Peter Attia 

Don't eat too much and don't eat too little. - Peter Attia

Get enough protein. 1 gram per pound of body weight. - Peter Attia 

(Protein Boosters:  Dairy, Beef & Eggs from food. Whey Protein.)





COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

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