Longevity Magazine

Empower yourself with insights for preventive health, wellness and longevity. Explore our latest articles on fitness, personalized medicine, cutting-edge science and strategies to help you live a longer, healthier life.

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The scientific approach to health, performance and longevity
Personalized Medicine

4 min read

The scientific approach to health, performance and longevity

Research on entrepreneurship shows that successful innovations are made by people who are actively shaping the future, instead of waiting for the future to occur. So why should we wait for severe symptoms of diseases to show up before we start taking care of our health?Let’s go one step further in our business metaphor: it’s way too risky to build a product without testing your assumptions, gathering data, and iterating. So why should we approach our health with guesswork and generic advice? Isn’t your own health the most important “product” you are working on? In this article, I’ll explain my proactive approach to health.If there's one thing I’ve learned from years of working with agile approaches like Build-Measure-Learn (Lean Startup) or Plan-Do-Check-Act (Deming-Cycle) or iterating in sprints (Scrum), it’s this: In uncertain and complex environments, a scientific approach („Hypothesis-Experiment-Iterate“) is key! And what’s more complex than your health?Health is an experiment – so treat it like oneHuman metabolism is a vast, adaptive system. Take Magnesium, for example: it's involved in over 300 enzymatic processes. If your body is running low, it won’t just shut down; it will prioritize. My body might prioritize differently than yours, based on genetics, lifestyle, and the current situation.This is why symptoms alone rarely tell the whole story. Fatigue, brain fog, or muscle cramps could mean a Magnesium deficiency — or not. Maybe another bottleneck, like low Sodium, could cause the cramps.Instead of blindly supplementing, I follow an iterative approach:Measure – Test blood markers to identify potential deficiencies.Analyze – Use data to make informed decisions on supplementation or diet changes.Adjust – Implement changes, then re-measure after a set period.Just like in agile product development, it’s all about small, controlled experiments instead of reckless trial and error.If you are curious to dig deeper into the N=1 experimentation topic, this article by Nick Norwitz could be an inspiring next step: Paving the path for n=1 citizen science.The foundation: essential vs. semi-essential micronutrientsWhen optimizing health, I focus on essential and semi-essential micronutrients:Essential micronutrients – The body can’t produce them, so we must get them from food or supplements. These include vitamins, (trace) minerals, amino acids, and fatty acids (e.g., EPA and DHA Omega-3s).Semi-essential micronutrients – The body can produce these, but often not in sufficient amounts (especially under stress or aging).My hypothesis on (semi-) essential micronutrientsIf I ensure optimal levels of all essential and semi-essential micronutrients, my body has the best possible foundation to handle stress, infections, and daily performance demands.From my point of view, a proactive approach like this is way better than just reacting to symptoms, which might only appear when the body has already been compensating for too long.Why generic advice can be riskyYou've probably heard statements like: "Take L-tyrosine to boost dopamine for motivation!" Sounds good, right? But here’s the problem:Dopamine synthesis doesn’t just depend on Phenylalanine or Tyrosine. It also requires cofactors like Vitamin B6, Iron, and Copper. If any of these are missing, extra Phenylalanine or Tyrosine won’t help with your motivation. (Remark: this could be one reason why studies or experience reports sometimes show that one substance is not effective.)Or consider Vitamin D: If you assume you're deficient and take high doses without testing, you might overshoot and cause calcium imbalances, leading to kidney stones or arterial calcification or decrease of bone density. That’s why I always measure before and after making changes.Strategic supplementation: anticipate, don’t just reactWhile measuring is crucial, some situations call for proactive adjustments:Performance optimization – If I'm preparing for an endurance event, I do not wait for my next blood work to be sure that I am running out of electrolytes, I increase my minerals' intake in advance.Lifestyle factors – If I know I’m getting little sun exposure, I monitor vitamin D levels more closely.Drug interactions – Some medications deplete nutrients (e.g., statins lower CoQ10, birth control pills affect B vitamins). If I had to take medication long-term, I would factor this into my health plan.This isn’t about blindly taking supplements — it’s about strategic precision.Final takeaway: health, the agile wayIf you care about performance and longevity, stop relying on generic health advice. Instead, approach your body the way you'd approach building a high-performance system:Test, don’t guess – Data beats assumptions.Measure and iterate – Small adjustments, tested over time, lead to better results.Think holistically – Deficiencies and imbalances are often interconnected.Because just like in business, what you don’t measure, you can’t improve. And maybe it’s a good idea to ask someone with expertise and experience to accompany and coach you on your first steps. 

Personalized longevity: how YEARS is shaping the future of preventive medicine
Sponsored
Personalized Medicine

7 min read

Personalized longevity: how YEARS is shaping the future of preventive medicine

Have you ever wondered why some people remain energetic and healthy well into their later years, while others face health complications much earlier? Modern longevity research is tackling that question, and YEARS adds a unique dimension by combining advanced diagnostics, risk analysis, and evidence-based interventions. Their mission? To redefine medicine by shifting from a reactive model—where interventions start only after symptoms arise—to a preventive and personalized approach that aims to detect and address potential issues long before they escalate.Precision medicine meets longevity: A timely shiftAs demographic pressures grow, many health systems are overwhelmed—often targeting diseases like cardiovascular conditions or type 2 diabetes only after clinical symptoms appear. By then, a lot of damage has already been done. YEARS believes that catching issues at the earliest possible stage can help individuals avoid or significantly delay chronic conditions. This mindset aligns with precision medicine, which tailors healthcare to each person’s unique genetic and lifestyle factors rather than sticking to universal protocols.The evidence-based coreYEARS emphasizes evidence-based preventive medicine, meaning every recommendation is grounded in the latest research from molecular biology, systems medicine, and data science. While lifestyle trends and quick fixes often grab headlines, YEARS aims to take a more robust approach—blending modern diagnostics (like imaging, neurocognitive testing, and psychosocial evaluations) with in-depth molecular and epigenetic analyses. The result? A comprehensive picture of your health trajectory, allowing for interventions that are scientifically validated rather than purely fashionable.YEARS’ three-step methodComprehensive assessment and risk analysisThe process begins with a thorough medical history, an evaluation of lifestyle factors, and an analysis of your genetic and environmental influences. This might sound futuristic, but technologies like genomic sequencing, multi-omics data integration, and advanced imaging are making it more accessible and actionable than ever. YEARS uses cutting-edge algorithms to piece together these findings into a detailed health profile—pointing out early risk factors for diseases that often develop silently over years.Personalized recommendations and interventionsArmed with this robust data, YEARS constructs a customized prevention plan. This may include everything from dietary tweaks and stress-management practices to advanced screening protocols or targeted therapies. The objective is to maintain high-quality health for the long run—rather than just avoiding illness. As multiple studies have shown, evidence-based lifestyle modifications can reduce the incidence of chronic diseases significantly when implemented early.Ongoing monitoring and adjustmentTrue preventive medicine is never a “one-and-done” affair. YEARS schedules regular follow-up appointments to track key metrics, health trends, and newly emerging research. This feedback loop helps detect early deviations—think of it like a personalized "early warning system” for age-related conditions. If a new piece of data or insight comes to light, your plan gets adjusted accordingly.Why this matters for healthy agingBeyond the quick fixYEARS aims to spark a paradigm shift—moving away from what some might call “short-term lifestyle offers” and toward scientifically grounded interventions. Chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, certain cancers) often develop gradually, sometimes without obvious symptoms until it’s too late. By focusing on precise early detection, YEARS enables individuals to address subtle changes in health before they become full-blown diagnoses.Inclusive for a broad demographicYEARS programs are designed for adults of all ages, though they’re especially relevant for those 35 and older, since that’s when the likelihood of chronic conditions starts to climb. If you’re someone who values an evidence-based approach, wants to leverage the latest technologies, and prefers taking proactive ownership of your health, YEARS may be worth exploring.The advantages of evidence-based preventive medicineEarly diagnosis and risk reductionBy identifying risk factors and pathological developments before symptoms appear, YEARS helps you tackle issues at the most manageable phase.Data-driven decisionsRegular health checkups integrated with the latest research ensure that your recommendations evolve alongside medical progress—meaning you stay aligned with the cutting edge.Long-term vitalityThe core goal is to optimize your “healthspan,” not just your lifespan. Slowing or mitigating age-related declines can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life overall.Precision medicine meets real-world challengesBalancing innovation with accessibilityBreakthrough diagnostics—like some of the advanced imaging and RNA-based urine analyses—can be costly or still in the research pipeline. YEARS acknowledges these hurdles but aims to make cutting-edge methods part of a broader, more inclusive approach. Ethical considerations around data privacy and genetic testing also come into play; robust data governance is essential to building trust and ensuring that innovations truly benefit all.Integrating advanced technologiesFrom genomic screening to AI-driven analytics, the infrastructure for precision medicine continues to expand. YEARS’ approach aligns with these developments by collecting large datasets—covering everything from lab results to lifestyle metrics—and interpreting them through sophisticated algorithms. As these technologies mature, the quality and precision of health insights can only improve.Spotlight on non-invasive diagnostics: Urine tests for early detectionOne of the biggest hurdles in prevention is getting people to undergo invasive procedures—like biopsies—when they feel perfectly fine. That’s why there’s such buzz around less invasive screening tools. A recent study from the University of Texas at Arlington, Chan-Zuckerberg Biohub, and Stanford University suggests that analyzing RNA in urine could reveal early warning signs of cancer or kidney disorders, potentially sidestepping the need for more complex interventions.“Studying the RNA found in urine can detect some ailments in their earliest stages, where they are easily—and cost effectively—managed,”explains Joseph Buonomo, assistant professor of chemistry at UTA.While these findings are preliminary, they’re part of a broader drive to develop “liquid biopsy” methods—simple tests that collect and analyze biological markers from fluids like blood or urine. For many, this could significantly reduce barriers to early disease detection. Practical tips to get startedKnow your baselineEven a simple blood panel or basic fitness assessment can help you spot early markers for chronic conditions. If you’re ready for more, look into genetic or multi-omics screenings.Ask about emerging diagnosticsIf a doctor recommends a biopsy or more invasive procedure, inquire whether less-invasive options (like advanced imaging or urine-based RNA tests) might complement or precede it.Manage stress systematicallyChronic stress is tied to hormonal imbalances and epigenetic shifts. Techniques like mindfulness, regular exercise, and better sleep hygiene can have a real impact—particularly over the long haul.Stay informed, stay curiousFollow reputable journals or medical news sources. There’s a fine line between hype and scientifically validated breakthroughs; aiming for a balanced perspective is key.A look aheadAs the healthcare landscape evolves, personalized longevity will likely become more mainstream. Programs like YEARS show how evidence-based diagnostics, data integration, and continuous monitoring can help identify problems far sooner than traditional methods. It won’t happen overnight—and yes, challenges around cost, data privacy, and healthcare provider education remain—but the momentum toward a proactive, individualized paradigm is real.By blending enthusiasm for medical innovation with a healthy measure of scientific skepticism, patients can make informed choices to support long-lasting wellness. And that’s the ultimate aim of preventive medicine: not merely adding years to our lives, but ensuring those years are lived in good health and vitality.Interested in learning more?If you’d like to explore how YEARS applies these principles in practice—or simply want to see whether their approach resonates with your health goals—feel free to visit their website at years.co. You can find information on their Medical Center in Berlin, their interdisciplinary team, and the personalized care journey they offer. Because, after all, redefining medicine starts with taking ownership of your health—today, not when symptoms emerge. 

Founder interview: Max Marchione, co-founder and CEO of Superpower
Personalized Medicine

5 min read

Founder interview: Max Marchione, co-founder and CEO of Superpower

In our Founder Interview series, we showcase the brightest minds in preventive health, wellness, and longevity. In Episode 1, we introduce Max Marchione, Co-Founder and CEO of Superpower.Tell us a little about yourself and your current ventureI'm Max, co-founder of Superpower.com, a new healthcare system to prevent disease and enhance human capabilities. Previously, I built Next Chapter to help shape the trajectory of young talent and Ultraviolet Ventures to invest in companies that ‘nobody else sees’. I dropped out of Australia’s top law school, despite ranking 1st, to study mathematics and statistics while working 10 jobs on the side. Today, I live in San Francisco and spend most of my time thinking about healthcare 5 years from now, resource allocation in light of AI, storytelling, culture, speed, and how to create an A+ team & culture. I invest from pre-idea via Fractal Capital. You can learn more about me at maxmarchione.com How do you balance the demands of running a business while maintaining your own health and longevity?I believe that health is a tool for human performance. You can read my protocol on my website. I've spent lots of time and money optimizing this, so hopefully you don't have to. Do you have a personal health goal? What is it? Reduce my biological age to under 24. Maintain <12% bf year round. Gut health top 5th percentile. Toxin exposures, bottom 5th percentile. Before launching your venture, can you walk us through the “aha” moment that inspired the creation of your product/service?From a young age, I struggled with health issues. It would take me hours to fall asleep every night, and despite seeing over 20 doctors, undergoing surgery, and being prescribed lifelong medication, no one could work out what was going on. So, I explored the world of health myself, reading papers and experimenting with tools like the Gen 1 Oura Ring in 2016 and continuous glucose monitors in 2017—at a time when using these devices was considered weird.I realized that healthcare should be used not just for treating illness, but for maximizing human potential. I finally found a doctor who got to the root of my health problems, and in doing so, had an important realization: there’s a huge gap between the cutting-edge healthcare available to the elite, like Jeff Bezos, and what the average person receives. Since then, I’ve believed that everyone, not just a privileged few, should have access to this kind of care, and that’s what we’re building at Superpower. What sets your venture apart in the crowded health and wellness industry?I'd challenge the premise that the industry is crowded. I think it's just getting started and there is so much whitespace. Fundamentally, no one has been able to do what Superpower is doing, which is taking high-end concierge medicine that previously cost $10k-$100k, and making that accessible for a far lower amount. No one besides Superpower has aggregated dozens of diagnostics and therapeutics under one roof, and built the AI systems that connect the dots across all of someone's data. What’s the most surprising lesson you’ve learned from your customers or users?We need to obsessively simplify the value proposition. What feels simple to us can still be complex and obscure to users. What is the most groundbreaking or unexpected finding in the field of longevity research that you’ve come across recently, and why do you find it so compelling?My friend has built a ring to continuously monitor hormones, non-invasively. No one knows about this company yet, but it will be huge. In your opinion, which emerging longevity trend or product will have the most transformative impact on our health over the next five years, and why?Gene therapy, and the ability to genetically drive outcomes in a reasonably safe manner. One thing you wish more people knew about health and longevity?That supplements are not the answer. What is the biggest longevity myth you’d like to debunk?That longevity is a noisy and saturated industry. It's not. If you could recommend only one supplement for a longer, healthier life, which would it be, and what makes it indispensable?I'm going to cheat and say this multi-vitamin because it solves for methylation (b vitamins), mineral depletion, antioxidants, vitamin D/K, etc. I personally use Adapt Naturals.How old can we potentially become at maximum?Probably only 170 without changing our physical bodies or uploading our brains.What resources (books, podcasts, mentors) have been most valuable in your entrepreneurial journey?Books: DuneThe FountainheadPoor Charlie's AlmanacVisit my website for more.If there’s one message or insight you’d like readers to take away from your journey, what would it be?Stop thinking about doing things and just do things. Action produces information.