The Longevity Factor

A groundbreaking examination of new scientific research that holds the secret to weight loss, increased strength, endurance, memory, and a healthier, longer life

In The Longevity Factor, noted neuroscientist and surgeon Joseph Maroon, M.D., offers the definitive look at recent scientific breakthroughs identifying a group of natural substances -- including the much-publicized molecule resveratrol -- that can actually activate a specific set of genes in humans that promote a longer, healthier life. These substances, which make red wine, dark chocolate, and green tea good for us, appear to stave off a wide array of age-related diseases and keep us feeling young and vital.

Resveratrol is the centerpiece of headline-making research being conducted at the Harvard Medical School and elsewhere. Only recently, however, have scientists discovered how to isolate resveratrol and concentrate it into an affordable and safe supplement. Already, more than 200 supplements featuring resveratrol have flooded the market, and there are countless more on the way. But which ones work best? What is a consumer to look for on the label? Since resveratrol is a natural substance, can you get enough of it through diet alone, or should you combine diet with a supplement? And what lies on the horizon from the pharmaceutical industry? All those questions and many more are answered in this immensely informative and practical book.

Joseph Maroon offers the first-ever inside look at the amazing research that has led to the discovery of resveratrol and similar substances with the miraculous ability to activate our own longevity genes. He also offers his own diet plan and sound, reader-friendly advice for living a longer, healthier, and more balanced life with or without supplements. The Longevity Factor promises to be the authoritative source for everyone who wants to know more about how we can shift from the current paradigm of aging to a disease-free golden age of health, longevity, and fitness.

Dr. Joseph Maroon studied medicine at Indiana University, Georgetown, and Oxford University. He began his practice in 1982 at the University of Pittsburgh, where in 1999 he was named the Heindl Scholar and Vice Chairman of the department of Neuroscience. In 1986, he was named President of the Congress of Neurological Surgeons, the largest society of its kind in North America. He has been honored internationally for his work, and has published widely in his area. He has been the team neurosurgeon for the Pittsburgh Steelers for the past 20 years, and has developed a computerized scanning system to evaluate concussions that has been adopted throughout the NFL, NHL, NBA, NASCAR as well as more than 1000 high schools and colleges. Maroon has remained an active athlete since college, having competed in more than 50 triathlons, including 5 Ironman competitions.