Dr. Kaeberlein debunks the following myths:  

  • We can directly measure biological age. 
  • Supplements are a core part of improving health and longevity.  
  • It’s too late to start worrying about longevity. 
  • Aging research is well-funded. 

The internet and social media have facilitated the widespread dissemination of misinformation. The ever-evolving landscape of health and longevity is by no means immune to this misinformation. As an emerging field, aging biology is vulnerable to money grabs, overhype, and misconceptions. As such, in a recent discussion, Dr. Matt Kaeberlein has shed light on some of the most pervasive longevity myths, offering a scientific perspective that challenges common beliefs.

Myth 1: We Can Directly Measure Biological Age

One of the most significant myths debunked is the idea that we possess tools to directly measure biological age. While chronological age is easily quantifiable, biological age remains elusive. Dr. Kaeberlein emphasizes that our current understanding of biological age at a cellular and molecular level is incomplete, making direct measurement impossible. 

Instead, what are often marketed as “biological age clocks” (such as epigenetic age clocks) are merely estimations based on correlations. These tools measure specific methylation changes on DNA, which are correlated with chronological age, mortality risk, or other health metrics. While these correlations can be valuable, they do not equate to a direct measurement of biological age. The estimates may improve over time, but it’s crucial to understand that they are not a definitive measure.

For more actionable insights, Dr. Kaeberlein suggests focusing on tools that estimate mortality risk based on blood-based biomarkers and physiological measurements, such as grip strength, arm circumference, and VO2 max. These functional measures are often more useful because they are actionable; improving them can lead to better health outcomes.

A clock that goes backwards.

Myth 2: Supplements Are a Core Part of Improving Health and Longevity

Another widespread myth is the notion that supplements are an essential component of a longevity strategy. While certain supplements can be beneficial for individuals with specific deficiencies (e.g., Vitamin D, omega-3, B vitamins), they are not a universal requirement for everyone seeking to improve health and longevity. The key lies in identifying and addressing individual needs through testing and then supplementing to reach optimal ranges. Following this logic, when it comes to older individuals, supplements that remove senescent cells, improve mitochondrial health, and elevate NAD+ (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) levels may be beneficial. 

Moreover, while not a core part of improving health and longevity, Kaeberlein admits that some supplements can potentially benefit most individuals. He gives the example of creatine, which has been shown to improve muscle strength and memory. Ultimately, Dr. Kaeberlein stresses that lifestyle factors—such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and strong human relationships—are the true core components of longevity. It is entirely possible to achieve a robust longevity protocol without taking a single supplement. Supplements should be viewed as supportive tools, not foundational elements.

Myth 3: It’s Too Late to Start Worrying About Longevity

Perhaps one of the most encouraging debunked myths is the belief that one can be “too old” to begin focusing on longevity. Scientific evidence, particularly from animal studies on interventions like rapamycin, demonstrates that many strategies to slow biological aging are effective even when initiated late in life. Research on animals has shown that starting treatments in older subjects can not only delay further decline but, in some cases, even reverse existing functional declines.

This scientific insight offers a powerful message of hope: it is never too late to take steps toward improving one’s health. Regardless of chronological age, individuals can always embark on a journey to enhance their health and well-being. The biology of aging suggests that interventions can still yield significant benefits, even in later stages of life.

Myth 4: Aging Research is Well-Funded

Contrary to popular belief, aging research is often significantly underfunded compared to disease-specific research. While diseases associated with aging (like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s) receive substantial funding, research into aging itself as a treatable condition receives a disproportionately smaller share. When it comes to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which provides the majority of funding in the United States, aging research receives less than 1% of total funding, according to Kaeberlein. 

This creates a paradox: by understanding and intervening in the aging process, we could potentially prevent or delay the onset of multiple age-related diseases simultaneously, offering a more holistic approach to health. However, the current funding model often prioritizes treating individual diseases rather than addressing their common root cause—aging. This underfunding hinders progress in understanding the basic mechanisms of aging and developing broad-spectrum interventions that could benefit a wide range of health conditions.

The confusion surrounding aging research funding may derive from high-profile investors like Jeff Bezos, who reportedly backed Altos Labs with $3 billion. Another high-profile investment mentioned by Kaeberlein was that of Calico, which received $1 billion from Alphabet (Google’s parent company) and the pharmaceutical company AbbVie.  Meanwhile, Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, invested $180 million into Retro Biosciences. However, these investments in biotechnology do not represent the aging biology field as a whole, as most research is conducted at research universities. 

(Image: wsj.com) Funding Among Companies Is Disproportionate. The diagram does not include research institutions funded by the NIH.

Stay Informed 

The pursuit of a longer, healthier life is a noble endeavor, but it must be guided by scientific understanding rather than popular myths. By debunking these common misconceptions, Dr. Kaeberlein provides a clearer, more accurate roadmap for those seeking to optimize their health span. The emphasis shifts from quick fixes and unproven metrics to actionable lifestyle changes and evidence-based approaches, reminding us that true longevity is built on a foundation of informed choices and consistent effort.