MythBusters’ Adam Savage shares hacks for a longer life
Former “MythBusters” star Adam Savage is delving into the realm of longevity, exploring how lifestyle choices, stress, and sleep impact our lifespan. As a YouTube creator and head of the channel Tested, Savage has teamed up with health technology company Medtronic to delve into discussions about longevity. While he is not a researcher himself, Savage has immersed himself in scientific insights from experts and reflected on his own experiences.
In an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital, Savage expressed his fascination with longevity, stating, “I mean, who doesn’t want to know how to live better and maybe even longer? But the real question is what actually works?” Drawing from his time on “MythBusters,” Savage credits the show for legitimizing the practice of science and engineering in his eyes, showcasing how experimentation can enhance our understanding of the world.
Through conversations with individuals on the street for Medtronic, Savage has uncovered key lifestyle factors that influence longevity. He highlighted a shift in societal perceptions of old age, noting that people today consider themselves “young-ish” for longer periods. Additionally, Savage mentioned Blue Zones, regions known for their long life expectancy, questioning whether longevity in these areas is solely due to location or cultural practices.
Savage emphasized that there is no magic secret to longevity, but rather a combination of daily habits such as diet, exercise, community engagement, and stress management. He shared his personal experimentation with intermittent fasting, which resulted in weight loss and improved sleep quality. Reflecting on his past smoking habits, Savage acknowledged the importance of breaking the habit for his overall health.
Regarding alcohol consumption, Savage dismissed a one-size-fits-all approach, recognizing that studies on its effects vary. While he personally cut back on alcohol, he emphasized that individuals should not feel guilty about their lifestyle choices. Savage believes that relaxation and downtime play a crucial role in our well-being, but emphasized the importance of mindful choices.
In addition to lifestyle factors, Savage discussed the role of medical advancements in extending lifespan and healthspan. Medtronic’s focus on healthcare technology aims to manage chronic conditions, enhance heart health, and advance minimally invasive surgeries. With innovations like AI-driven healthcare monitoring and robotic-assisted surgeries, Medtronic is dedicated to improving long-term health outcomes.
Savage also touched on the psychological aspects of aging, underscoring the significance of mindset and community in longevity. Medtronic predicts that the first person to live to 150 may have already been born, prompting discussions about the upper limit of human life expectancy. Savage suggested that reaching 150 years may be a realistic target, highlighting the evolving cultural attitudes towards aging and longevity.
As we look towards the future, Savage believes that by 2040, our cultural perspective on longevity may shift significantly. With advancements in science and technology, the possibility of living longer, healthier lives becomes more attainable. The quest for longevity continues to drive scientific exploration and innovation, paving the way for a future where extended lifespan and improved quality of life go hand in hand.
