September 3, 2026
Vital Signs
The Simple Habits Behind the World’s Longest-Lived People — According to Science
What determines how long—and how well—we live? Decades of longevity research suggest the answer runs far deeper than diet and exercise.
Decades-long studies have followed people across much of their lives, uncovering some surprising characteristics associated with longevity. In this “Vital Signs” compilation, doctors and other experts explore what these findings may reveal about why some people remain healthier—and live longer—than others.
The investigation ranges from fasting and the body’s response to inflammation to gut bacteria, sunlight and a little-known waste-clearance system that becomes particularly active in the brain during deep sleep.
But some of the most intriguing clues have less to do with biology. Research into long-lived populations points toward the way people eat together, their relationships and their sense of purpose. And one personality trait, according to findings discussed by physician and physiatrist Dr. Damon Noto, emerged as an especially powerful predictor of both longevity and life satisfaction.
Marine veteran Elliot Ackerman and retired heart surgeon Dr. Allen Davies also reveal what extreme circumstances can teach us about purpose—and why being needed by others may matter more than we realize.
Up Next:
How a Marine War Vet Found Purpose and an Answer to Trauma | Elliot Ackerman
Find the links to other featured interviews below.
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Watch the full-length interviews featured in this longevity video:
Longevity Studies Reveal Habits That Can Add 20+ Years to Your Life | Damon Noto M.D.
Cut Kidney Inflammation Risk via the Fasting Mimicking Diet | Jason Fung M.D.
Combat Heart Disease, Inflammation With Olive Oil, Vitamin D, Other Polyphenols | Gerald Lemole M.D.
Beyond Vitamin D: How to Tap the Sun’s Antiviral Power | Roger Seheult M.D.
Can Alzheimer’s Brain Toxins Be Cleared by Core Nutrients, Deep Sleep, Qigong? | Gerald Lemole M.D.
Surgeon Tells How He Saved Lives Under Enemy Fire in Vietnam | Lt. Col. Allen Davies M.D.
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Related/Referenced studies/reports:
Eight Habits for Longevity: Life-Lengthening Factors Increase Lifespan by 24 Years
Blue Zones Power 9: Lifestyle Habits of the World’s Healthiest, Longest-Lived People
The role of the lymphatic system in cholesterol transport
Arterial Lymphatics in Atherosclerosis: Old Questions, New Insights, and Remaining Challenges
Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Prognostic Markers of Lymphatic Dysfunction
Melatonin and the Optics of the Human Body
Optically Improved Mitochondrial Function Redeems Aged Human Visual Decline
Light stimulation of mitochondria reduces blood glucose levels
Colocalization of Tau and Alpha-Synuclein Epitopes in Lewy Bodies
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Vital Signs’ host, guests, and contributors offer general information on improving health and wellness. This is not intended as diagnosis or medical advice. You should consult your medical doctor or holistic doctor before enacting any suggested strategies for health and wellness improvement, including those in relation to preventing or treating specific diseases featured on this program.
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