Podcast Summary: The Dr. Josh Axe Show – "My Parents Are 75 and Water Skiing! Here’s Their Secret to Longevity"
Episode Information
- Title: My Parents Are 75 and Water Skiing! Here’s Their Secret to Longevity
- Host: Dr. Josh Axe
- Release Date: August 11, 2025
- Description: In this episode, Dr. Josh Axe delves into the secrets behind longevity and vibrant health, drawing from both modern scientific insights and ancient wisdom. Through personal anecdotes and expert analysis, listeners learn actionable strategies to add not just years to their lives but life to their years.
1. Personal Anecdotes and Introduction to Longevity
Dr. Josh Axe begins the episode by sharing inspiring stories about his own family’s longevity. His parents, aged 73 and 75, are active and healthy, water skiing and engaging with their grandchildren. Additionally, his 96-year-old grandfather remained active until his passing.
Notable Quote:
“If you're a person who doesn't want to be in your 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s being feeble and having no energy, then this is the episode for you.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [00:02]
This personal touch sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of how to achieve similar longevity.
2. The Nine Hallmarks of Aging
Dr. Axe outlines nine critical cellular changes, known as the hallmarks of aging, that contribute to the aging process. Understanding and addressing these can slow down aging and improve healthspan.
2.1 Altered Cellular Communication
- Explanation: Cells communicate constantly; disruptions can lead to diseases like diabetes and hormone imbalances.
- Warning Signs: Poor sleep, hormone imbalances, and chronic fatigue.
- Solutions: Improve sleep hygiene, manage stress, and maintain hormonal balance.
Notable Quote:
“When communication starts to fall apart, it’s the same thing with yourself. It makes you sick.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [04:25]
2.2 Microbiome Dysbiosis
- Explanation: An imbalanced gut microbiome affects immunity, metabolism, and mood.
- Warning Signs: Chronic constipation, bloating, gas, and food sensitivities.
- Solutions: Incorporate probiotics, prebiotics, and a high-fiber diet.
2.3 Epigenetic Imbalances
- Explanation: Lifestyle and environment influence gene expression, potentially accelerating aging.
- Solutions: Adopt healthy lifestyles, avoid toxins, and consider genetic testing for personalized health strategies.
2.4 Mitochondrial Dysfunction
- Explanation: Declining mitochondrial function leads to fatigue and cognitive issues.
- Solutions: Supplement with NAD Plus, Coenzyme Q10, and engage in moderate exercise.
Notable Quote:
“Mitochondria are the power plants of your cells producing ATP, your body's cellular energy currency.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [10:10]
2.5 Oxidative Stress
- Explanation: Excess free radicals damage DNA, proteins, and cell membranes.
- Solutions: Consume antioxidant-rich foods like berries, green tea, and spices like turmeric.
2.6 Inflammaging
- Explanation: Chronic low-grade inflammation accelerates aging and leads to diseases like arthritis and heart disease.
- Solutions: Follow an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s, vegetables, and healthy fats.
2.7 Impaired Autophagy
- Explanation: Reduced cellular housekeeping leads to accumulation of damaged cells.
- Solutions: Practice intermittent fasting, engage in regular exercise, and consume polyphenol-rich foods.
2.8 Cellular Senescence
- Explanation: Accumulation of senescent (zombie) cells releases toxins that inflame tissues.
- Solutions: Support autophagy through diet and stress reduction techniques like meditation.
2.9 Stem Cell Exhaustion
- Explanation: Declining stem cell function impairs tissue regeneration and immune resilience.
- Solutions: Incorporate calorie restriction, certain peptides, and adaptogenic herbs to rejuvenate stem cells.
3. Integrating Traditional Wisdom: The Three Treasures
Dr. Axe bridges modern science with ancient Chinese medicine by introducing the concept of the Three Treasures—Jing, Qi, and Shen—which correspond to physical, mental, and spiritual health.
Notable Quote:
“We are missing this today. And I want to say something about these ancient physicians, like Hippocrates and Maimonides... they knew and understood something.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [42:15]
3.1 Jing (Body)
Focuses on physical health through proper diet and exercise.
3.2 Qi (Breath and Mind)
Emphasizes the importance of mindset, motivation, and mitochondrial health through practices like meditation.
3.3 Shen (Spirit)
Centers on spiritual health, purpose, and strong social bonds to enhance overall well-being.
4. The Power Nine: Blue Zones and Longevity
Dr. Axe discusses the Power Nine, nine common lifestyle factors among the world’s longest-lived populations, known as Blue Zones.
4.1 Regular Low-Intensity Physical Activity
Activities like walking, gardening, and household chores are integral.
4.2 Purpose
A strong sense of purpose can add up to seven years to one’s lifespan.
Notable Quote:
“A strong sense of purpose adds up to seven years of extra life expectancy.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [34:50]
4.3 Downshift
Daily routines to reduce stress, such as naps, prayer, and socializing.
4.4 80% Rule
Eating until 80% full to prevent overeating.
4.5 Moderate Alcohol Consumption
Especially wine, enjoyed socially with friends or family meals.
4.6 Belonging
Being part of a faith-based or spiritual community.
4.7 Prioritizing Family
Keeping aging parents nearby and investing in children.
4.8 Right Tribe
Surrounding oneself with a supportive social circle that encourages healthy behaviors.
4.9 Plant-Forward Diet
A diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and healthy fats like olive oil.
5. Exercise for Longevity
Dr. Axe emphasizes the type of exercise is crucial for longevity. While moderate activities like walking, swimming, and racket sports (tennis, pickleball) significantly boost lifespan, excessive high-impact exercises can accelerate aging.
Notable Quote:
“The type of exercise you do can cause you to age more quickly or more slowly.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [46:30]
Best Practices:
- Racket Sports: Linked to the longest lifespan gains.
- Swimming and Cycling: Excellent low-impact cardiovascular exercises.
- Moderate Walking and Weight Training: Promote muscle maintenance and overall health.
6. Herbs and Supplements for Longevity
Dr. Axe outlines several herbs and supplements that support the hallmarks of aging and promote longevity.
6.1 Turmeric (Curcumin)
- Benefits: Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
- Usage: 1,000 mg daily with black pepper or ginger to enhance absorption.
- Quote:
“Consuming 1,000 milligrams a day of curcumin for 12 weeks significantly reduced the markers of oxidative stress and inflammation.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [51:15]
6.2 Ashwagandha
- Benefits: Reduces cortisol levels, improves stress and anxiety.
- Dosage: 300-600 mg daily.
6.3 Rhodiola Rosea
- Benefits: Enhances mitochondrial health, energy, and concentration.
- Dosage: 200 mg daily.
6.4 Coenzyme Q10
- Benefits: Supports ATP production and mitochondrial function.
6.5 NAD Plus and NMN
- Benefits: Mitochondrial boosters that enhance cellular energy.
6.6 Other Supplements:
- Probiotics and Prebiotics: For gut health.
- Green Tea (Matcha): Rich in polyphenols for longevity.
- Choline and PQQ: Support cellular functions.
7. Final Insights and Recommendations
Dr. Axe concludes with a holistic approach to longevity, emphasizing the integration of physical health, mental well-being, and spiritual fulfillment.
Key Recommendations:
- Build Strong Social Bonds: Engage with family, friends, and community.
- Maintain a Purpose-Driven Life: Know your identity and contribute meaningfully to society.
- Exercise Smartly: Choose activities that promote longevity without overstraining the body.
- Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Focus on whole, unprocessed foods rich in nutrients and antioxidants.
- Incorporate Beneficial Herbs and Supplements: Support your body’s cellular functions naturally.
- Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management: Ensure adequate rest and practice techniques to reduce stress.
- Spend Time in Nature: Engage in activities like forest bathing to lower cortisol levels and boost immune function.
Final Quote:
“If you do that, it's going to not only add years to your life, but life to your years.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [1:10:45]
By embracing these strategies, Dr. Axe empowers listeners to take proactive steps toward a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
Conclusion In this episode, Dr. Josh Axe masterfully blends scientific research with time-tested traditional practices to offer a comprehensive guide to longevity. From understanding cellular aging to adopting lifestyle habits observed in the world's longest-lived communities, listeners are equipped with knowledge and practical advice to enhance their lifespan and quality of life.
Call to Action:
“Make sure to subscribe, like, and share, and I'll see you on the next episode.”
- Dr. Josh Axe [1:10:50]
For more detailed insights and personalized health strategies, visit draxe.com.