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We brought George Sutphin back on the podcast to bare his soul—or at least his DEXA scan and VO2 max test results.

A DEXA (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan is an advanced imaging procedure for measuring bone density and composition. DEXA scans utilize two different energy levels of low-dose X-ray beams—one absorbed mostly by soft tissue, and the other absorbed mainly by bone—to differentiate between bone, fat, and lean tissue. In so doing, they provide noninvasive and detailed information about bone health, risk of osteoporosis or fractures, and body composition. While medical practioners typically perform DEXA scans on the lower spine and hips, they can also perform DEXA scans on the whole body for the purposes of early detection and intervention.

A VO2 max test measures the maximum volume of oxygen an individual can utilize during high-intensity exercise. At its core, it provides an assessment of a person's cardiovascular fitness and aerobic endurance. During the test, the subject performs a graded exercise protocol, typically on a treadmill or stationary bike, while wearing a mask connected to a metabolic cart. The cart measures the volume and gas concentrations of inhaled and exhaled air. As the exercise intensity increases, the test measures the point at which oxygen consumption plateaus, despite further increases in workload. This point is the VO2 max, indicating the person's aerobic capacity and endurance potential. The results can provide valuable information for athletes to tailor their training programs, for clinicians to assess the efficacy of treatments, and for researchers studying the effects of various interventions on cardiovascular health. VO2 max levels are strongly correlated with all-cause mortality.

In this episode, we chat with George about how he changed his readouts with time, whether his body composition tracks his work deadlines, his experiences with Ozempic, and more.

University of Arizona Assistant Professor of Molecular and Cellular Biology George Sutphin runs a lab that investigates genetic determinants of longevity, the effects of kynurenine-based interventions on lifespan, and environmental regulators of the aging process. George, who was an aerospace engineer before he discovered the promise of geroscience, completed his PhD at the University of Washington and worked as a postdoctoral associate at the Jackson Laboratory prior to his current faculty position. He currently serves as Chairperson of the American Aging Association.

0:00 Trailer
0:42 Introduction
2:31 George's DEXA scan
13:11 George's strategies for changing his DEXA scan results
21:46 A primer on VO2 max testing
24:31 George's VO2 max experience
27:32 George's exercise routines
30:23 Wrapping up

Producers: Tara Mei, Nicholas Arapis
Video Editor: Jacob Keliikoa

DISCLAIMER: The information provided on the Optispan podcast is intended solely for general educational purposes and is not meant to be, nor should it be construed as, personalized medical advice. No doctor-patient relationship is established by your use of this channel. The information and materials presented are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We strongly advise that you consult with a licensed healthcare professional for all matters concerning your health, especially before undertaking any changes based on content provided by this channel. The hosts and guests on this channel are not liable for any direct, indirect, or other damages or adverse effects that may arise from the application of the information discussed. Medical knowledge is constantly evolving; therefore, the information provided should be verified against current medical standards and practices.

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Hi, I'm Matt Kaeberlein. I spent the first few decades of my career doing scientific research into the biology of aging, trying to understand the finer details of how humans age in order to facilitate translational interventions that promote healthspan and improve quality of life. Now I want to take some of that knowledge out of the lab and into the hands of people who can really use it.

On this podcast I talk about all things aging and healthspan, from supplements and nutrition to the latest discoveries in longevity research. My goal is to lift the veil on the geroscience and longevity world and help you apply what we know to your own personal health trajectory. I care about quality science and will always be honest about what I don't know. I hope you'll find these episodes helpful!