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The Science and Technology of Growing Young: An Insider's Guide to the Breakthroughs that Will Dramatically Extend Our Lifespan . . . and What You Can Do Right Now
The prospect of living to 200 years old isn't science fiction anymore. A leader in the emerging field of longevity offers his perspective on what cutting-edge breakthroughs are on the horizon, as well as the practical steps we can take now to live healthily to 100 and beyond.
In The Science and Technology of Growing Young, industry investor and insider Sergey Young demystifies the longevity landscape, cutting through the hype and showing readers what they can do now to live better for longer, and offering a look into the exciting possibilities that await us. By viewing aging as a condition that can be cured, we can dramatically revolutionize the field of longevity and make it accessible for everyone.
Join Sergey as he gathers insights from world-leading health entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, and inventors, providing a comprehensive look into the future of longevity in two horizons:
The Near Horizon of Longevity identifies the technological developments that will allow us to live to 150--some of which are already in use--from AI-based diagnostics to gene editing and organ regeneration.
The Far Horizon of Longevity offers a tour of the future of age reversal, and the exciting technologies that will allow us to live healthily to 200, from Internet of Bodies to digital avatars to AI-brain integration. In a bonus chapter, Sergey also showcases 10 longevity choices that we already know and can easily implement to live to 100, distilling the science behind diet, exercise, sleep, mental health, and our environments into attainable habits and lifestyle hacks that anyone can adopt to vastly improve their lives and workplaces.
Combining practical advice with an incredible overview of the brave new world to come, The Science and Technology of Growing Young redefines what it means to be human and to grow young.
In The Science and Technology of Growing Young, industry investor and insider Sergey Young demystifies the longevity landscape, cutting through the hype and showing readers what they can do now to live better for longer, and offering a look into the exciting possibilities that await us. By viewing aging as a condition that can be cured, we can dramatically revolutionize the field of longevity and make it accessible for everyone.
Join Sergey as he gathers insights from world-leading health entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, and inventors, providing a comprehensive look into the future of longevity in two horizons:
The Near Horizon of Longevity identifies the technological developments that will allow us to live to 150--some of which are already in use--from AI-based diagnostics to gene editing and organ regeneration.
The Far Horizon of Longevity offers a tour of the future of age reversal, and the exciting technologies that will allow us to live healthily to 200, from Internet of Bodies to digital avatars to AI-brain integration. In a bonus chapter, Sergey also showcases 10 longevity choices that we already know and can easily implement to live to 100, distilling the science behind diet, exercise, sleep, mental health, and our environments into attainable habits and lifestyle hacks that anyone can adopt to vastly improve their lives and workplaces.
Combining practical advice with an incredible overview of the brave new world to come, The Science and Technology of Growing Young redefines what it means to be human and to grow young.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published August 24, 2021
241 people are currently reading
3607 people want to read
About the author
Sergey Young
3 books49 followersSergey Young is a longevity investor and visionary with a mission to extend healthy lifespans of at least one billion people. To do that, Sergey founded Longevity Vision Fund to accelerate life extension technological breakthroughs and to make longevity affordable and accessible to all.
Sergey is on the Board of Directors of the American Federation of Aging Research (AFAR) and the Development Sponsor of Age Reversal XPRIZE global competition designed to cure aging. Sergey is also a Top-100 Longevity Leader,who is transforming the world, one workplace at a time, with Longevity@Work – the first non-profit corporate longevity program of its kind.
Sergey has been featured as a top longevity expert and contributor on Fox News, BBC, Sky News, Forbes, and Thrive Global.
Sergey is on the Board of Directors of the American Federation of Aging Research (AFAR) and the Development Sponsor of Age Reversal XPRIZE global competition designed to cure aging. Sergey is also a Top-100 Longevity Leader,who is transforming the world, one workplace at a time, with Longevity@Work – the first non-profit corporate longevity program of its kind.
Sergey has been featured as a top longevity expert and contributor on Fox News, BBC, Sky News, Forbes, and Thrive Global.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
September 22, 2021
It's difficult to know how seriously to take this book. Young is an enthusiastic futurist, full of optimism about the possibilities of life extension. In the not-too-distant future, he believes, technology will enable the masses of humanity to live well into a second century and even beyond. He takes the reader on an interesting tour of the numerous advancements that are being made that, he says, will get many of us (or at least our children) to live to celebrate a 200th birthday. He even gives some tips on what one can do right now to help increase chances of longevity, though most are already common knowledge.
It's no secret that biotechnology is a field where we can indeed expect to see awesome advancements in the years ahead. Still, it seems odd that very few public experts seem to be making predictions anywhere nearly as optimistic as Young's. That alone makes me somewhat skeptical. Nevertheless, to a non-scientist, Young's arguments can sometimes seem persuasive, if not totally convincing. Many of the technologies he talks about are just over the horizon, he says, while others already exist but in a relatively rudimentary form that will need further improvement. Artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, genetics, and other fields will no doubt create many new possibilities for humanity, but how significant will they be, and when?
Whether he convinces you to share his optimism or not, Young's overview of this area is exciting and worthwhile. Just keep in mind that he is very much a booster with a thesis to sell, making his pitch in way that is not exactly objective or journalistic.
It's no secret that biotechnology is a field where we can indeed expect to see awesome advancements in the years ahead. Still, it seems odd that very few public experts seem to be making predictions anywhere nearly as optimistic as Young's. That alone makes me somewhat skeptical. Nevertheless, to a non-scientist, Young's arguments can sometimes seem persuasive, if not totally convincing. Many of the technologies he talks about are just over the horizon, he says, while others already exist but in a relatively rudimentary form that will need further improvement. Artificial intelligence, nanotechnology, genetics, and other fields will no doubt create many new possibilities for humanity, but how significant will they be, and when?
Whether he convinces you to share his optimism or not, Young's overview of this area is exciting and worthwhile. Just keep in mind that he is very much a booster with a thesis to sell, making his pitch in way that is not exactly objective or journalistic.
August 24, 2021
The book is curtsy to stars like Sinclair, de Grey, Longo. There are just a few practical aspects all of which are published in wellness magazines (do not smoke, do not eat sugar, sleep more, eat less processed food, eat more vegetables, do exercise, less stress, meditate regularly). For those who know how to read PubMed, the book will be a useless waste of time.
August 27, 2021
First, my thanks to Ben Bella books for providing a copy of this book to me for a honest review.
Judging by my name, Live Forever or Die Trying, you can already guess my biases when coming into this book. However, I am not afraid to make proper critiques when needed as I feel bad science, or blind evangelism sets the goals of the longevity movement further behind than anything else.
Onto the review.
“The Science And Technology of Growing Young” by Sergey Young reads as engaging Popular non-fiction book aimed at newcomers to the idea of longevity or radical life extension. I want to put emphasis here on “radical life extension” this is where Sergey sets himself apart from other popular NF books such as David Sinclair’s “Lifespan” or Andrew Steele’s “Ageless”. Both of these books look at advances in current science to extend life marginally past 120.
Unlike Sinclair and Steele, Sergey Young is an investor in the space. Whereas the former are scientist and stick close to research and facts as possible as to not come across as snake oil salesmen or charlatans, Sergey is able to flex his imagination about what the future can hold.
Sergey does not shy away from topics such as biological immortality, LEV or longevity escape velocity, or other “transhumanist” concepts. In this sense this book reads more like that of “Life 3.0” by Max Tegmark or any book by Ray Kurzweil. You can see this most plainly in chapter 1 titled “Life at 200” and the closing section “The Far Horizon of Longevity” & “Who Wants to Live Forever"
But let’s back up to the beginning and break down what exactly we are covering. The book starts with an imaginative future asking yourself to imagine life at 200, complete with all it’s advantageous before getting a bit of background information on Sergey himself and why he wrote this specific book.
The middle part of the book deals with covering recent advances in science such as use of CRISPR and genetic engineering, AI driven medical data analytics, and Stem Cell therapies. This is all told with a narrative feel through stories of people that have received or administered these therapies. In my opinion this section was written with engaging prose perfect for someone new to the topic, but for someone like myself I already knew much of the content.
Towards the end is in my opinion the most ambitious section in which Sergey talks on the ethics and potential futures we may run into once this tech is achieved. Including division of the consolidation of power within an augmented upper class, Brain Emulators and digital immortality, and immortal dictators.
Finally we wrap up the book with 10 tried and true tips to live a long life such as sleeping well, eating well, and working out. Here Sergey actually makes recommendations against biohacking and nootropics in favor of more studied solutions to preventing aging.
All in all I really enjoyed this book and think it is perfect for lovers of Sci-Fi or Kurzweil who want to bring a bit of that fiction to our reality sooner than later. However if you are already well read in the science of longevity or Transhumanist’s goals then you may find yourself skimming more than reading.
Judging by my name, Live Forever or Die Trying, you can already guess my biases when coming into this book. However, I am not afraid to make proper critiques when needed as I feel bad science, or blind evangelism sets the goals of the longevity movement further behind than anything else.
Onto the review.
“The Science And Technology of Growing Young” by Sergey Young reads as engaging Popular non-fiction book aimed at newcomers to the idea of longevity or radical life extension. I want to put emphasis here on “radical life extension” this is where Sergey sets himself apart from other popular NF books such as David Sinclair’s “Lifespan” or Andrew Steele’s “Ageless”. Both of these books look at advances in current science to extend life marginally past 120.
Unlike Sinclair and Steele, Sergey Young is an investor in the space. Whereas the former are scientist and stick close to research and facts as possible as to not come across as snake oil salesmen or charlatans, Sergey is able to flex his imagination about what the future can hold.
Sergey does not shy away from topics such as biological immortality, LEV or longevity escape velocity, or other “transhumanist” concepts. In this sense this book reads more like that of “Life 3.0” by Max Tegmark or any book by Ray Kurzweil. You can see this most plainly in chapter 1 titled “Life at 200” and the closing section “The Far Horizon of Longevity” & “Who Wants to Live Forever"
But let’s back up to the beginning and break down what exactly we are covering. The book starts with an imaginative future asking yourself to imagine life at 200, complete with all it’s advantageous before getting a bit of background information on Sergey himself and why he wrote this specific book.
The middle part of the book deals with covering recent advances in science such as use of CRISPR and genetic engineering, AI driven medical data analytics, and Stem Cell therapies. This is all told with a narrative feel through stories of people that have received or administered these therapies. In my opinion this section was written with engaging prose perfect for someone new to the topic, but for someone like myself I already knew much of the content.
Towards the end is in my opinion the most ambitious section in which Sergey talks on the ethics and potential futures we may run into once this tech is achieved. Including division of the consolidation of power within an augmented upper class, Brain Emulators and digital immortality, and immortal dictators.
Finally we wrap up the book with 10 tried and true tips to live a long life such as sleeping well, eating well, and working out. Here Sergey actually makes recommendations against biohacking and nootropics in favor of more studied solutions to preventing aging.
All in all I really enjoyed this book and think it is perfect for lovers of Sci-Fi or Kurzweil who want to bring a bit of that fiction to our reality sooner than later. However if you are already well read in the science of longevity or Transhumanist’s goals then you may find yourself skimming more than reading.
June 6, 2022
It could have been better had the author not focused on scientific studies focused predominantly on men.
September 24, 2021
This book does 2 things & 2 things only: it says (a) that x technology exists & (b) that the mere existence of x will save humanity.
1st, merely stating that x exists makes for dull reading, even when x is genuinely exciting--it's simply much more efficient and fun to get this kind of basic, declarative news from Buzzfeed listicles.
2nd, techno-optimism is a cop-out. In the penultimate section of the book, the author notes that superlongevity raises ethical concerns about the pension gap and welfare dependence, overpopulation, slowed innovation, etc., but he provides no answers, not even attempts at answers; literally his only response to these concerns is to say that--deus ex machina!--more technology will solve everything!
Clearly the man is not a thinker.
The future is very exciting, and I'm doing everything I can to live long enough to live forever (or at least long enough to use the technologies cited in this book!).
This book, though, is exactly what you'd expect from a venture capitalist who does 2 things: think positive thoughts and spend money. "There's fandangled new stuff coming soon and it's gonna change everything!"
Heard it all before, bucko! Hard pass!
1st, merely stating that x exists makes for dull reading, even when x is genuinely exciting--it's simply much more efficient and fun to get this kind of basic, declarative news from Buzzfeed listicles.
2nd, techno-optimism is a cop-out. In the penultimate section of the book, the author notes that superlongevity raises ethical concerns about the pension gap and welfare dependence, overpopulation, slowed innovation, etc., but he provides no answers, not even attempts at answers; literally his only response to these concerns is to say that--deus ex machina!--more technology will solve everything!
Clearly the man is not a thinker.
The future is very exciting, and I'm doing everything I can to live long enough to live forever (or at least long enough to use the technologies cited in this book!).
This book, though, is exactly what you'd expect from a venture capitalist who does 2 things: think positive thoughts and spend money. "There's fandangled new stuff coming soon and it's gonna change everything!"
Heard it all before, bucko! Hard pass!
October 7, 2021
I got a copy of this book as part of a Goodreads Giveaway, and I really wanted to like it. It would have been less obnoxious if it was just a straightforward description of the current state of the science and the breakthroughs likely on the horizon. Instead, the author takes an aggressively optimistic stance that we will all have equal access to longevity technology because... he wants it to be true? I'm certain most of the developments he talks about in the book will come about. I am not convinced by any of his arguments that the technology will be affordable or widely accessible. Historically, as medical technology becomes more complex, it also becomes more expensive. I see no reason that this should change in the next century. The one glimmer of hope the author provides comes with quantum computing, but he treats quantum AI as an omniscient god. Who knows? Maybe it will be.
Maybe it's because I read this almost immediately after Atul Gawande's "Being Mortal," but the author seems disconnected from the painful realities of aging and almost downright disrespectful of those currently facing them.
Maybe it's because I read this almost immediately after Atul Gawande's "Being Mortal," but the author seems disconnected from the painful realities of aging and almost downright disrespectful of those currently facing them.
December 11, 2021
The book outlaid some really interesting research and work being done to extend the human lifespan. It also spoke to the investment in longevity based startups and work being done. Personally, I felt the book kind of dragged at times and was very surface level. Maybe, I’m just not as interested in the topic as I thought I was or maybe I’m on a bit of a literature binge rather than non-fiction - but I wasn’t in love with this one.
March 1, 2023
Sergey Young, founder of the Longevity Vision Fund, is exploring the potential for extending human lifespan beyond our typical expectations. He asserts that with the current pace of progress in medical technology, supplements, and other breakthroughs, living up to 200 years is not an implausible concept.
Young emphasizes the significant impact that Artificial Intelligence and data could have on treating and even eradicating life-threatening illnesses. He highlights various startup companies, such as those assessing microbiomes to determine an individual's age and using stool samples to recommend diets and supplements that enhance overall wellbeing.
Exciting supplements with promising results on extending lifespan in mice, such as Metformin (used to treat type 2 diabetes), NMN, and Resveratrol, are on the horizon. Currently, thousands of ongoing studies aim to prove the efficacy of these substances in humans.
Young firmly believes that the pursuit of longevity is a moral imperative. He argues that it requires a collective effort to secure a better future. If people are living up to 100 or 150 years, it is crucial that we take action now to preserve the environment and ensure a good quality of life in the future. However, Young acknowledges that the concerns of dictators living across multiple generations or the widening of economic disparities due to longevity breakthroughs are not well-addressed.
Sergey Young finishes off the book with a bonus chapter where he emphasizes the protocols that people can follow to achieve the healthiest and longest life possible. These include regular checkups, quitting bad habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and consuming too much sugar, eating less frequently but choosing appropriate foods, taking supplements, regularly meditating, engaging in physical exercise, and getting adequate sleep.
Young emphasizes the significant impact that Artificial Intelligence and data could have on treating and even eradicating life-threatening illnesses. He highlights various startup companies, such as those assessing microbiomes to determine an individual's age and using stool samples to recommend diets and supplements that enhance overall wellbeing.
Exciting supplements with promising results on extending lifespan in mice, such as Metformin (used to treat type 2 diabetes), NMN, and Resveratrol, are on the horizon. Currently, thousands of ongoing studies aim to prove the efficacy of these substances in humans.
Young firmly believes that the pursuit of longevity is a moral imperative. He argues that it requires a collective effort to secure a better future. If people are living up to 100 or 150 years, it is crucial that we take action now to preserve the environment and ensure a good quality of life in the future. However, Young acknowledges that the concerns of dictators living across multiple generations or the widening of economic disparities due to longevity breakthroughs are not well-addressed.
Sergey Young finishes off the book with a bonus chapter where he emphasizes the protocols that people can follow to achieve the healthiest and longest life possible. These include regular checkups, quitting bad habits like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and consuming too much sugar, eating less frequently but choosing appropriate foods, taking supplements, regularly meditating, engaging in physical exercise, and getting adequate sleep.
August 26, 2021
I was waiting for this book to arrive since I had already read the free first chapter and was very intrigued by it. I had heard about longevity before and some science aspects but it had never really captured my interest. This book did a really great job at stimulating my mind. The concepts introduced to us really help let us know that in the end, we really are the ones in control of how long we live our lives. The science and technology of growing young introduces different practices we can start implementing today to put us in the best shape, as well as the advances in technology to look forward to in the future. Overall, this book was a great read that introduced me to concepts that had initially never even crossed my mind.
August 23, 2021
Came across this book after I was offered to download the first chapter for free. Often times we think of living until over 100 years old as a very slow painful process. I too am guilty of that thought. However after beginning to read the book, it really got me thinking. With all of us living in a time where science and technology reach life changing levels, we could possibly be capable of living longer than ever imagined, all while still feeling young and healthy. The science and technology of growing young enlightens us on how we all could live as long as possible at an affordable price. The book introduces different life practices to help keep us young, different perspectives from experts, and much more. A great read for anybody interested in health and longevity.
October 19, 2023
Science and technology will solve all our problems! Soon! Really, really soon! We just need more money. Lots and lots of money. And everyone will benefit, not just the wealthy, because we are really nice people and we want everyone to live forever. Soon! Any day now we'll make a breakthrough. Just give us more money. No more disease. No more failing body parts. No more malnutrition. No more dementia. Soon! We just need a bunch more money and a little more time. We promise. Trust us.
August 28, 2021
Sergey provides a fairly accurate picture of where we are and where we’re headed. Get ready, the next decade is going to make our heads explode. If you’re not eating, sleeping, exercising, managing stress and spending time developing meaningful family and friend relationships, spend time in those spheres now.
This is another great addition to the longevity library.
This is another great addition to the longevity library.
September 1, 2021
A lot of repeat information for anyone who's following lifespan & longevity science closely.
October 31, 2023
This book explores the future of longevity science, bridging practical health advice with groundbreaking technology and inspiring readers to rethink ageing.
In an era marked by rapid advancements in science and technology, the quest for a longer, healthier life has captured the imagination of many. It is a journey that holds the promise of extending our lifespans far beyond what was once considered possible.
Sergey Young embarks on this ambitious mission in his book The Science and Technology of Growing Young. With a commitment to enhancing the healthy lifespans of billions, Young takes us on a captivating exploration of the science, technology, and ethical considerations that underpin the Longevity Revolution. In this review, we will delve into the key takeaways from the book, its strengths and weaknesses as perceived by readers, and the profound impact it holds for those eager to embrace a future where age is merely a number, and healthcare is personalised to perfection.
Author’s background
Sergey Young is a forward-thinking investor and visionary on a mission to enhance the healthy lifespans of at least one billion people.
To achieve this goal, Sergey established the Longevity Vision Fund, dedicated to expediting breakthroughs in life-extending technologies and ensuring that longevity becomes affordable and accessible to everyone. Sergey holds positions on the Board of Directors at the American Federation of Aging Research (AFAR) and serves as the Development Sponsor for the Age Reversal XPRIZE global competition, which aims to find a cure for ageing.
What is the book about?
The Science and Technology of Growing Young by Sergey Young is a groundbreaking book that provides a fresh perspective on the field of longevity. Unlike most other books in this genre, which are typically authored by technologists, scientists, or medical doctors, Sergey Young, an investor-author deeply connected with numerous cutting-edge longevity-focused companies through his Longevity Vision Fund, presents a unique and accessible insight into the world of longevity science.
In the book, Sergey shares his firsthand knowledge of these innovative companies, offering readers a glimpse into their remarkable breakthroughs. Through personal stories of pioneering individuals driving these innovations and the beneficiaries of these groundbreaking technologies, each chapter is filled with Sergey’s enthusiasm and expertise. Importantly, the book is written in a language that makes it accessible to readers of all backgrounds, regardless of their profession or scientific expertise.
Readers can expect to gain valuable insights into the most exciting technological advancements happening in the field of longevity today. The book offers a front-row seat to witness how engineers are enhancing physical, biological, and intellectual aspects of human existence. It explores efforts to update the outdated ‘software’ of human ageing, offering practical advice on how to adapt habits for longer and healthier life.
Three key takeaways from The Science and Technology of Growing Young
1. We stand at the brink of a Longevity Revolution
While our ancestors could only hope to live to 30, modern advancements have pushed life expectancy to around 75. But this is just the start. In the near future, we’re poised to witness people living well beyond 100, even 200 years, thanks to rapid advances in science and technology. The pace of innovation, as demonstrated by the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines, is astonishing. With breakthroughs in fields like genomics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, not only will people live longer chronologically, but they will also experience biological rejuvenation. The Longevity Revolution is not a far-off dream; it’s a reality that will reshape our lives profoundly. Embracing this remarkable journey is the key takeaway, as it promises to change the way we perceive and experience ageing and longevity.
2. AI-powered precision medicine for personalised care
Precision medicine, powered by AI, is ushering in a new era where medical solutions are uniquely tailored to each individual. In the past, medical treatments were often generic, overlooking the distinct medical histories, lifestyles, and genetic compositions of patients. However, with the advancements in AI, particularly Natural Language Processing, computers can now analyze vast volumes of medical literature and align this information with a patient’s health data and genome sequence. This results in precise and personalised diagnoses and treatment plans.
This approach not only facilitates the creation of custom medications but also plays a vital role in disease prevention. By identifying hereditary disorders or vulnerabilities, AI can recommend tailored lifestyle changes or medications to preempt health issues. Importantly, this doesn’t mean replacing doctors; rather, it empowers healthcare professionals to deliver more effective, individualised care. In a world where medical knowledge is expanding rapidly, AI serves as a vital tool for medical practitioners, ensuring that every patient receives the care that suits them best.
3. Our bodies will be upgraded with artificial parts in the future
The Science and Technology of Growing Young paints a compelling vision of a future where organ shortages, complex transplant logistics, and lifelong medications are rendered obsolete by cutting-edge innovations. From growing mini-organs inside the body to 3D-printed corneas and electronic vision restoration, the book foresees a world where we all become bionic, turning science fiction into everyday reality. It underscores the limitless potential of medical advancements in reshaping our lives and healthcare.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Provides a new perspective on time, making readers feel like they have ample time to achieve their goals.
• Aligns with leading experts and synthesises global knowledge on healthy ageing and longevity.
• Offers a balanced exploration of the ethical aspects of longevity advancements.
• Draws on the author’s extensive experience and expertise in the field of longevity.
Weaknesses:
• The book primarily presents the author’s futuristic viewpoints without delving into a broader range of expert opinions or research, which may leave some seeking a more balanced perspective.
Best quotes from The Science and Technology of Growing Young
“While the first genomic sequencing cost $3 billion and took fifteen years to complete, today a whole human genome can be sequenced in an afternoon for about $200.”
“At a minimum, you should have a complete annual physical exam that includes blood count and metabolic blood chemistry panels, a thyroid panel, and testing to reveal potential deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B, iron, and magnesium. If you are sexually active, you should also be checked for STDs.”
“According to former US surgeon general Vivek Murthy, loneliness increases your risk of premature death as much as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day does.”
Final takeaway
The Science and Technology of Growing Young by Sergey Young offers a compelling glimpse into a future where longevity and personalised healthcare are at the forefront of medical advancements. Young’s visionary outlook and insights into the Longevity Revolution are inspiring and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities of living well beyond the traditional lifespan.
This book is ideal for those seeking a futuristic and optimistic view of the future of healthcare and ageing, as well as practical advice for a healthier life today.
In an era marked by rapid advancements in science and technology, the quest for a longer, healthier life has captured the imagination of many. It is a journey that holds the promise of extending our lifespans far beyond what was once considered possible.
Sergey Young embarks on this ambitious mission in his book The Science and Technology of Growing Young. With a commitment to enhancing the healthy lifespans of billions, Young takes us on a captivating exploration of the science, technology, and ethical considerations that underpin the Longevity Revolution. In this review, we will delve into the key takeaways from the book, its strengths and weaknesses as perceived by readers, and the profound impact it holds for those eager to embrace a future where age is merely a number, and healthcare is personalised to perfection.
Author’s background
Sergey Young is a forward-thinking investor and visionary on a mission to enhance the healthy lifespans of at least one billion people.
To achieve this goal, Sergey established the Longevity Vision Fund, dedicated to expediting breakthroughs in life-extending technologies and ensuring that longevity becomes affordable and accessible to everyone. Sergey holds positions on the Board of Directors at the American Federation of Aging Research (AFAR) and serves as the Development Sponsor for the Age Reversal XPRIZE global competition, which aims to find a cure for ageing.
What is the book about?
The Science and Technology of Growing Young by Sergey Young is a groundbreaking book that provides a fresh perspective on the field of longevity. Unlike most other books in this genre, which are typically authored by technologists, scientists, or medical doctors, Sergey Young, an investor-author deeply connected with numerous cutting-edge longevity-focused companies through his Longevity Vision Fund, presents a unique and accessible insight into the world of longevity science.
In the book, Sergey shares his firsthand knowledge of these innovative companies, offering readers a glimpse into their remarkable breakthroughs. Through personal stories of pioneering individuals driving these innovations and the beneficiaries of these groundbreaking technologies, each chapter is filled with Sergey’s enthusiasm and expertise. Importantly, the book is written in a language that makes it accessible to readers of all backgrounds, regardless of their profession or scientific expertise.
Readers can expect to gain valuable insights into the most exciting technological advancements happening in the field of longevity today. The book offers a front-row seat to witness how engineers are enhancing physical, biological, and intellectual aspects of human existence. It explores efforts to update the outdated ‘software’ of human ageing, offering practical advice on how to adapt habits for longer and healthier life.
Three key takeaways from The Science and Technology of Growing Young
1. We stand at the brink of a Longevity Revolution
While our ancestors could only hope to live to 30, modern advancements have pushed life expectancy to around 75. But this is just the start. In the near future, we’re poised to witness people living well beyond 100, even 200 years, thanks to rapid advances in science and technology. The pace of innovation, as demonstrated by the swift development of COVID-19 vaccines, is astonishing. With breakthroughs in fields like genomics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, not only will people live longer chronologically, but they will also experience biological rejuvenation. The Longevity Revolution is not a far-off dream; it’s a reality that will reshape our lives profoundly. Embracing this remarkable journey is the key takeaway, as it promises to change the way we perceive and experience ageing and longevity.
2. AI-powered precision medicine for personalised care
Precision medicine, powered by AI, is ushering in a new era where medical solutions are uniquely tailored to each individual. In the past, medical treatments were often generic, overlooking the distinct medical histories, lifestyles, and genetic compositions of patients. However, with the advancements in AI, particularly Natural Language Processing, computers can now analyze vast volumes of medical literature and align this information with a patient’s health data and genome sequence. This results in precise and personalised diagnoses and treatment plans.
This approach not only facilitates the creation of custom medications but also plays a vital role in disease prevention. By identifying hereditary disorders or vulnerabilities, AI can recommend tailored lifestyle changes or medications to preempt health issues. Importantly, this doesn’t mean replacing doctors; rather, it empowers healthcare professionals to deliver more effective, individualised care. In a world where medical knowledge is expanding rapidly, AI serves as a vital tool for medical practitioners, ensuring that every patient receives the care that suits them best.
3. Our bodies will be upgraded with artificial parts in the future
The Science and Technology of Growing Young paints a compelling vision of a future where organ shortages, complex transplant logistics, and lifelong medications are rendered obsolete by cutting-edge innovations. From growing mini-organs inside the body to 3D-printed corneas and electronic vision restoration, the book foresees a world where we all become bionic, turning science fiction into everyday reality. It underscores the limitless potential of medical advancements in reshaping our lives and healthcare.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• Provides a new perspective on time, making readers feel like they have ample time to achieve their goals.
• Aligns with leading experts and synthesises global knowledge on healthy ageing and longevity.
• Offers a balanced exploration of the ethical aspects of longevity advancements.
• Draws on the author’s extensive experience and expertise in the field of longevity.
Weaknesses:
• The book primarily presents the author’s futuristic viewpoints without delving into a broader range of expert opinions or research, which may leave some seeking a more balanced perspective.
Best quotes from The Science and Technology of Growing Young
“While the first genomic sequencing cost $3 billion and took fifteen years to complete, today a whole human genome can be sequenced in an afternoon for about $200.”
“At a minimum, you should have a complete annual physical exam that includes blood count and metabolic blood chemistry panels, a thyroid panel, and testing to reveal potential deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin D, vitamin B, iron, and magnesium. If you are sexually active, you should also be checked for STDs.”
“According to former US surgeon general Vivek Murthy, loneliness increases your risk of premature death as much as smoking fifteen cigarettes a day does.”
Final takeaway
The Science and Technology of Growing Young by Sergey Young offers a compelling glimpse into a future where longevity and personalised healthcare are at the forefront of medical advancements. Young’s visionary outlook and insights into the Longevity Revolution are inspiring and thought-provoking, encouraging readers to consider the possibilities of living well beyond the traditional lifespan.
This book is ideal for those seeking a futuristic and optimistic view of the future of healthcare and ageing, as well as practical advice for a healthier life today.
August 20, 2021
Longevity is something that has always interested me. Why wouldn't I want to live as happy, healthy, and long as possible? When I came across the science and technology of growing young, it immediately caught my eye. The concept of "growing young" was just something I wanted to look into out of curiosity, but once I started reading I got sucked in.
The book busts several different life myths and really helps open your mind. What really makes a "good" diet a good diet? Are our healthy habits really healthy? This book so far has been a great read with a large amount of interesting life hacks and information from many different experts. Would happily recommend.
The book busts several different life myths and really helps open your mind. What really makes a "good" diet a good diet? Are our healthy habits really healthy? This book so far has been a great read with a large amount of interesting life hacks and information from many different experts. Would happily recommend.
January 30, 2022
Sergey clearly distinguishes his stance as an investor and not from the scientific point of view. It's much more hyped than some of the other guys like David Sinclair in the topic of longevity. The takehome message of how to live longer was rarely new information. You might find values coming from the business background with his introduciton of various startup companies. Otherwise, I'd say you can safely skip this book and read other books such as The Circadian Code or Longevity.
July 11, 2022
Sergey Young takes us on a journey through all the technologies that are happening today to extend life into tomorrow. He has a goal of living to 200 years old. Personally, I liked the book and it is interesting to hear about the many technologies that are coming available, however I would have liked a little more depth on some of them. Sergey stays really high level throughout the book and more depth would be great.
January 29, 2023
I didn’t finish this book and don’t have any plans to in the immediate or midterm future. Books of this type tend to become overcome by developments even if the pace of medical research seems agonizingly slow for those of us of a certain age. The reason I didn’t finish it is that the author seems to be more of an enthusiast with entrepreneurial dreams and ambitions rather than someone on the front lines of research. I would just as soon forego the cheerleading and get on with the game itself.
September 13, 2021
Wish he went deeper into some of the topics and tech on longevity science, but it's a good beginner book on it! I Will have to explore more on those topics myself and read more, but this gave me a solid foundation.
September 15, 2021
Like so many other health & wellness books I’ve read, this one got too textbook-like eventually and then I lost interest a bit. Overall, a good read though. Thanks to NetGalley for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
October 2, 2021
It’s all covered elsewhere
I really wanted to like this book. And maybe it would be great for someone new to longevity literature and ideas. But for someone that’s read a few other books it’s a waste of time.
I really wanted to like this book. And maybe it would be great for someone new to longevity literature and ideas. But for someone that’s read a few other books it’s a waste of time.
November 7, 2021
It was exciting to read about some new technologies, the possibilities. The points made about present day maximization of lifespan seem to be the common sense and readily available. I appreciate his future thinking and optimism.
February 23, 2022
While I believe that most of the ideas described in the book will become a reality at some point, the book does a very poor job in convincing you that that this future is near.
Most of the time is spent talking about the ideas themselves, which are better explained in science fiction books.
Most of the time is spent talking about the ideas themselves, which are better explained in science fiction books.
August 5, 2024
I have immersed myself into books about longevity and was excited to read The Science and Technology of Growing Young: An Insider's Guide to the Breakthroughs that Will Dramatically Extend Our Lifespan . . . and What You Can Do Right Now. I listened to it on audiobook.
Young is a longevity investor, and he founded the Longevity Vision Fund. He is knowledgeable about many startups in the longevity arena.
The book started off imagining what life would be like when we can live to be 200 years old. The person in this scenario has the biological age of a twenty-five-year-old man with a chronological age of 200. He lives in a sealed bubble and has chips throughout his body. He eats a meal that is prepared specifically for him based on AI. Robots live with him in his bubble that are very similar to humans.
Ugh. I am very interested in extending lifespans to be healthier and longer. This scenario felt too much like a George Jetson look into the future.
This book wasn't for me.
Young is a longevity investor, and he founded the Longevity Vision Fund. He is knowledgeable about many startups in the longevity arena.
The book started off imagining what life would be like when we can live to be 200 years old. The person in this scenario has the biological age of a twenty-five-year-old man with a chronological age of 200. He lives in a sealed bubble and has chips throughout his body. He eats a meal that is prepared specifically for him based on AI. Robots live with him in his bubble that are very similar to humans.
Ugh. I am very interested in extending lifespans to be healthier and longer. This scenario felt too much like a George Jetson look into the future.
This book wasn't for me.
May 6, 2022
The author certainly has the right name for this topic!
His mission is to help 1 billion people live a happy and healthy 100 years—and extending people's lifespan will only happen by making longevity more affordable and accessible.
This is a worthy addition to the plethora of recent books on life extension. It is written for the layperson and provides a really good overview of all the developments in this area.
Sergey provides his reasons for why we could extend life to 150 years in the near future and possibly 200 years eventually.
He looks at genetic engineering, regenerative medicine, health-care hardware and health data intelligence.
In the bonus chapter, he provides the following 10 attitudes, habits and choices you need to make to take advantage of the Longevity Revolution:
1. You Better Check Yourself
2. Quit Your Bad Habits
3. Don’t Do Dumb Things
4. Eat Early, and Less Often
5. Let Food Be Thy Medicine
6. Supplement Your Nutrition
7. Get On Up!
8. Make Sleep Your Superpower
9. Mindfulness over Matter
10. Think and Grow Young
His mission is to help 1 billion people live a happy and healthy 100 years—and extending people's lifespan will only happen by making longevity more affordable and accessible.
This is a worthy addition to the plethora of recent books on life extension. It is written for the layperson and provides a really good overview of all the developments in this area.
Sergey provides his reasons for why we could extend life to 150 years in the near future and possibly 200 years eventually.
He looks at genetic engineering, regenerative medicine, health-care hardware and health data intelligence.
In the bonus chapter, he provides the following 10 attitudes, habits and choices you need to make to take advantage of the Longevity Revolution:
1. You Better Check Yourself
2. Quit Your Bad Habits
3. Don’t Do Dumb Things
4. Eat Early, and Less Often
5. Let Food Be Thy Medicine
6. Supplement Your Nutrition
7. Get On Up!
8. Make Sleep Your Superpower
9. Mindfulness over Matter
10. Think and Grow Young
September 6, 2025
Fascinating, compelling, and scary, all at the same time. To me, honestly, much of this book read like a science fiction/horror novel. While we have come a long way as humans, and life expectancy is always increasing, with the sensible and logical goal of always attempting to continue that trend, some of the ideas and concepts, things that are already being utilized and others on the horizon, are quite nerve-wracking to me. An extremely interesting read, with insights into the current, near future, and far-off horizon regarding the extension of human lifespan and what that will likely look like and mean for the future of humanity and our planet. Medications, therapies, AI, and robotics are some of the topics detailed in this book, along with how aging works and is classified and why that matters for future developments in the field of longevity. A bonus chapter at the end of the book gives practical advice on how to live your healthiest today and add productive and healthy years to your life right now.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway.
June 30, 2022
Thank you to the author, publishers and Goodreads for my copy of this book.
This book sounded really interesting in the blurb and I had looked forward to reading it. Ultimately, I came away a bit disappointed.
Much of what Young provides is a rehash of information available through media. Granted, he puts a very positive spin on what we can all look forward to or hope for the future of human aging. A little too positive for my taste, though. My pessimism is rooted in the knowledge that medical advancements in the US are not distributed equally. I can see a future where only the wealthy and privileged will have access to life sustaining treatments and technology. I would love to believe that our society will be magnanimous, but these days this seems like an impossibility.
Also, much of the research presented focuses on male subjects. More diversity would be appreciated by Young as well as all of the researchers.
This was just not my cup of tea.
This book sounded really interesting in the blurb and I had looked forward to reading it. Ultimately, I came away a bit disappointed.
Much of what Young provides is a rehash of information available through media. Granted, he puts a very positive spin on what we can all look forward to or hope for the future of human aging. A little too positive for my taste, though. My pessimism is rooted in the knowledge that medical advancements in the US are not distributed equally. I can see a future where only the wealthy and privileged will have access to life sustaining treatments and technology. I would love to believe that our society will be magnanimous, but these days this seems like an impossibility.
Also, much of the research presented focuses on male subjects. More diversity would be appreciated by Young as well as all of the researchers.
This was just not my cup of tea.
December 28, 2021
This is a super fascinating and super disturbing book. It had so many interesting things about what scientists are working on to keep people younger or "immortal" (LOL) that I didn't know about. It also had a lot of assumptions and although covers different perspectives it still shows how a only a rich dude from a first world country will be the only one benefitting from these studies.
I don't want to live forever, nor do SO many people I know. It may be based on a religious upbringing and the belief in the next world. But the assumption that everyone wants to live forever even in a supposedly healthy state (I don't think artificial organs are healthy state) is flawed, very flawed. It's scary to think we're headed in this direction.
Worth listening to. This is a 10 hour audio book.
I don't want to live forever, nor do SO many people I know. It may be based on a religious upbringing and the belief in the next world. But the assumption that everyone wants to live forever even in a supposedly healthy state (I don't think artificial organs are healthy state) is flawed, very flawed. It's scary to think we're headed in this direction.
Worth listening to. This is a 10 hour audio book.
May 1, 2023
Muy interesante - y sorprendente - entender en donde esta la humanidad frente al reto de la inmortalidad. Aunque la tecnología ha avanzado dramáticamente en los últimos años, fue una sorpresa ver los avances para los próximos…. 5-10 años en lo que Young llama “The near horizon of longevity”. Es un hecho que si hoy alguien tiene menos de 60 años y en razonablemente buena salud, va a vivir 10-15 años más que las últimas generaciones, gracias a los avances tecnológicos que hoy son una realidad, impulsados por computación cuántica e inteligencia Artificial. Pienso que hace falta mucho pensamiento y decisión alrededor de los dilemas éticos de la “inmortalidad”, pero veremos avances impresionantes en los siguientes años. Y, como bonus, el poder infinito de los datos, la analítica y la inteligencia Artificial.
February 16, 2022
The book is the best medicine from middle age crisis.
One of the explanations for middle age crisis is the appreciation that there is a limited time left for our career and the mortality is inevitable. That book provides real reassurance that there is much more time left if not unlimited.
The amount of important breakthroughs mentioned in the book made by medicine, technology, microbiology and other sciences to extend our lifespan is impressive and sometimes forgotten when people see the problems which are faced by the world population. Author's positive attitude to the progress and optimistic approach to many issues faced by our planet makes the read very encouraging.
One of the explanations for middle age crisis is the appreciation that there is a limited time left for our career and the mortality is inevitable. That book provides real reassurance that there is much more time left if not unlimited.
The amount of important breakthroughs mentioned in the book made by medicine, technology, microbiology and other sciences to extend our lifespan is impressive and sometimes forgotten when people see the problems which are faced by the world population. Author's positive attitude to the progress and optimistic approach to many issues faced by our planet makes the read very encouraging.
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