Treating patients to maintain longevity and athleticism involves a multifaceted approach that combines preventive strategies, lifestyle interventions, personalized medicine, and targeted therapies. The goal is to optimize healthspan (the period of life spent in good health) alongside lifespan, while enhancing physical performance, recovery, and resilience against age-related decline. This can include evidence-based methods drawn from sports medicine, functional medicine, and longevity research. Key principles emphasize early diagnostics, individualized plans based on biomarkers and genetics, and ongoing monitoring to adapt treatments.
Lifestyle Interventions
Lifestyle forms the foundation for promoting longevity and athletic performance, often described as the base of a "longevity pyramid." These strategies are accessible, cost-effective, and supported by robust evidence for reducing mortality risk and improving physical capabilities.
Supplements and Pharmacological Interventions
Supplements can address cellular aging and support athletic demands when lifestyle alone is insufficient. Always base recommendations on patient biomarkers and monitor for interactions.
Supplement/Therapy |
Key Benefits for Longevity and Athleticism |
Dosage/Administration |
Evidence Notes |
NAD+ Precursors (e.g., NR, NMN) |
Boosts mitochondrial energy, improves endurance, recovery, and DNA repair; reverses age-related declines in performance. |
250–1,000 mg/day orally or IV for maximum uptake; combine with vitamins for synergy. |
Enhances aerobic capacity in runners and reduces fatigue in older adults. |
Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) |
Improves sports performance, reduces biological age, enhances collagen synthesis for skin and joint health. |
300–1,500 mg/day. |
Can compress morbidity and extend lifespan in models; human studies show age reversal by up to 7 years. |
Resveratrol |
Antioxidant effects improve glycemic control, fat loss, and cardioprotection. |
100–500 mg/day. |
Benefits metabolic status in diabetes and heart disease patients. |
Spermidine |
Reduces CV disease risk, improves cognition, and extends lifespan. |
7–25 mg/day from food or supplements. |
Linked to cardioprotection in studies. |
Senolytics (e.g., Fisetin, Quercetin + Dasatinib) |
Clears senescent cells, reduces inflammation, and supports muscle function. |
20–500 mg/day for fisetin; up to 1g/day quercetin. |
Ongoing trials for age-related diseases; extends lifespan in models. |
Probiotics (Gerobiotics) |
Enhances gut microbiota diversity, reduces sarcopenia, and boosts immunity. |
Strains like Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. |
Improves muscle and cognitive health in aging. |
Other agents like metformin (for mortality reduction) or rapamycin (for lifespan extension) may be considered for specific cases, but require careful monitoring.
Advanced Therapies and Personalized Medicine
Leverage next-generation tools for precision treatment.
Implementation in Practice
Start with comprehensive assessments: biomarkers (e.g., glucose, VO2 max), genetic testing, and body composition scans. Develop individualized plans, integrating remote monitoring via apps or devices for adherence. Collaborate with specialists in sports medicine or functional integration for holistic care. Regular follow-ups ensure adjustments, with lifestyle changes prioritized before supplements or therapies. This approach can prevent up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke while supporting sustained athleticism.