How Not to Age: The Scientific Approach to Getting Healthier as You Get Older

Who is this book for?

• This book would likely appeal to health-conscious individuals who are interested in the science behind aging and longevity.
• It would be particularly attractive to those already following or interested in plant-based diets, as well as readers who enjoy deep dives into nutritional research.
• People who are looking for comprehensive, evidence-based strategies to improve their health as they age, and those who don't mind sifting through dense scientific information, would find value in this book.
• It may also appeal to skeptics of conventional medical approaches who are seeking alternative, nutrition-based methods for healthy aging.

Who is unlikely to appreciate this book?

• Readers who prefer concise, easily digestible health advice might find this book overwhelming and tedious.
• Those who enjoy animal products as part of their diet may be put off by the strong pro-vegan stance.
• Individuals looking for a balanced view that includes benefits of moderate animal product consumption would likely be frustrated.
• People who are easily anxious about their health choices might find the tone alarmist.
• Additionally, readers seeking a more holistic approach to aging that gives equal weight to factors like exercise, stress management, and social connections may find the heavy focus on nutrition limiting.
• Those who prefer narrative-style science writing or are looking for quick, actionable tips without extensive scientific background may also struggle with this book.

Things online reviewers enjoyed about this book

• Comprehensive and well-researched compilation of scientific studies on aging and longevity
• Advocates for a whole food, plant-based diet with evidence to support its benefits
• Provides actionable advice on nutrition and lifestyle changes to promote healthy aging
• Covers a wide range of topics related to aging, including cellular mechanisms and preserving bodily functions
• Challenges the notion that decline in health is inevitable with age
• Offers accessible explanations of complex scientific concepts for the average reader
• Includes numerous citations and links to additional resources for further research
• Highlights the importance of diet in regulating various anti-aging strategies
• Examines 'blue zones' where people tend to live longer, healthier lives
• Provides specific dietary recommendations for various health concerns related to aging

Things people didn't like as much about this book

• Extremely long and repetitive, with some readers finding it tedious and overwhelming
• Strong bias towards veganism/vegetarianism, potentially overlooking benefits of moderate animal product consumption
• Some readers find the author's narration style in the audiobook version off-putting
• May promote fear or anxiety around food choices due to emphasis on negative health impacts
• Lacks comprehensive coverage of exercise and strength training for healthy aging
• Some recommendations for specific foods or supplements may be impractical or difficult to source
• Potential cherry-picking of studies to support the author's viewpoint
• Lack of nuance in some recommendations, presenting correlations as definitive causations
• Overemphasis on obscure foods or supplements rather than practical, everyday dietary choices
• Insufficient summary or clear action steps for readers to easily implement recommendations