The REAL Key to Aging Well (Hint: It’s NOT in Your Genes)

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted March 12, 2025

Ever feel like aging is just one big genetic lottery?

You either hit the jackpot with youthful skin and strong bones… or you’re stuck watching your health slide downhill.

Well, science just shattered that myth.

A massive new study analyzed data from almost half a million people and found that your genes are just a tiny piece of the puzzle. Less than two percent of aging and disease risk is genetic.

The rest? It’s up to YOU.

Researchers found that two key lifestyle factors have the biggest impact on how fast—or slow—you age. And guess what? They’re completely within your control.
According to scientists, the biggest drivers of biological aging are:

1. Smoking: If you’re still puffing away, stop now. Smoking was linked to 21 different diseases and is one of the fastest ways to age your body.
2. Socioeconomic status: Your living conditions, financial security, and stress levels play a HUGE role in longevity. Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your body, increasing inflammation and disease risk.

Other factors—like physical activity, nutrition, and even how often you feel tired—also play a role. But smoking and environment had the biggest impact.

The study also revealed that your environment is almost 10 times more important than your genetics when it comes to aging and disease risk.

That’s huge! It means that you have the power to slow aging and prevent disease just by making a few key changes.

And don’t worry—this isn’t about going broke on fancy anti-aging treatments or biohacking gadgets. The best ways to slow aging are simple, affordable, and 100 percent natural.

So, if you want to take control of how well you age, here’s where to start:

• Ditch the cigarettes—If you still smoke, quit.
• Move your body daily—Even just a 20-minute walk can work wonders.
• Manage stress—Meditation, deep breathing, or just spending time in nature can help.
• Eat real food—Skip processed junk and load up on fresh veggies, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
• Prioritize sleep—Aim for 7-9 hours per night to keep your body and brain in top shape.
• Surround yourself with positivity—Your environment matters. Seek out supportive relationships and minimize stress wherever possible.

Forget what you’ve been told about aging being out of your hands. This new research proves that YOU have the power to slow down the clock.

So why not start today?

P.S. “Forever young” hack promotes healthy aging.

Source:

Argentieri, M. A., Amin, N., J., A., Sproviero, W., Collister, J. A., Keestra, S. M., Kuilman, M. M., Ginos, B. N., Ghanbari, M., Doherty, A., Hunter, D. J., Alvergne, A., & Van Duijn, C. M. (2025). Integrating the environmental and genetic architectures of aging and mortality. Nature Medicine, 1-10.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

View More By Dr. Scott Olson, ND