#400: Why Chasing Muscle for Longevity Might Backfire: The Real Keys to Aging Well With Joel Greene
Today, I’m excited to bring back the always thought-provoking Joel Greene, author of “The Immunity Code” and “The Way,” for a fresh conversation on why true longevity is about so much more than how much muscle you have or the latest diet trend you’re following. Joel Greene opens up about the hard lessons he’s learned from decades of self-experimentation and reveals why chasing that ideal gym physique might actually backfire as you age.
In this episode, we dig into why your immune system is the true control center for vibrant aging and why flexibility, mobility, and even the strength of your big toe could be stronger predictors of healthspan than biceps or bench press stats. We bust pervasive fitness myths, explore overlooked biomarkers (like fasting insulin and acyl carnitines), and get super practical with simple routines—right down to how jumping rope or working your feet could transform your future.
If you want a no-nonsense, balanced approach to lasting youthfulness—not just looking fit—this episode is for you. We cover everything from why your “perfect” routine needs constant tweaking, to using food as a true longevity tool, to the surprising power of stillness.
Learn more from Joel Greene below:
Website: https://www.veepnutrition.com/the-way-1
Instagram: @realjoelgreene
What We Discuss:
Welcome & episode introduction ... 00:00:00
The evolving nature of health and homeostasis ... 00:08:29
Beware rigid diet tribes—find nutritional flexibility ... 00:21:41
Biomarkers people miss: fasting insulin and acyl carnitines ... 00:23:11
Chronic ketosis, ATP, and metabolic slowdowns ... 00:25:16
Myth-busting muscle and the limits of bodybuilding for aging ... 00:27:17
Functional movement, flexibility, and big toe strength ... 00:34:29
Simple foundation: daily jumps or hops ... 00:47:41
Sensible protocols for muscle gain after 50 ... 01:00:07
Balance in diet as the true key to insulin sensitivity ... 01:08:06
Rules of thumb: meal timing for insulin ... 01:15:56
Stillness, faith, and feeding your spirit ... 01:21:56
Most abused supplement: Antioxidants ... 01:27:54
Body fat percentage as top longevity marker ... 01:29:12
Our Amazing Sponsors:
Quantum Upgrade - Supports nervous system balance without wearables or apps—just effortless, 24/7 quantum energy streaming. With 21+ studies showing measurable improvements in stress and cellular function, it’s easy to try for yourself. Visit quantumupgrade.io/NAT and use code NAT10 to start the free trial.
Blue Peptide Spray from Young Goose - Brings the message back loud and clear. With NAD+ APEX™️ to refuel energy, methylene blue to recharge your mitochondria, and GHK-Cu to tell your skin, “Hey, start making that collagen again!” It’s longevity science, not cosmetic hype. Visit YoungGoose.com—use code NAT10 to get started, or 5NAT if you’re an existing customer.
Mitopure® Longevity Gummies are the only clinically proven Urolithin A gummies supporting mitochondrial health — one of the key hallmarks of aging. Get 35% off a one-month subscription at Timeline.com/Nat2026 *Special deal through January 2026.
More from Nat: