Health Journey: Update
This is the latest in my series, Health Journey. You can find prior posts that cover things like wearables (Whoop and Levels), testing (Function Health, InsideTracker, and Everlywell), and supplements (IDLife, Athletic Greens, Toniiq, and HealthSpan).
Today, I want to tackle something broader that’s on my mind from reading Outlive by Dr. Peter Attia: biology is complex! We’re all wonderfully unique, so those one-size-fits-all diets, superfoods, exercise programs, or whatever else someone is hyping? Remember—they’re often selling something. Don’t buy into the hype blindly! I’m not against trying new things, quite the opposite, but it's crucial to understand your biology first. It's essential to approach experimentation safely, scientifically, and with clear rational thought.
As a self-proclaimed data nerd, I rely on numbers to guide my decisions. For me, data creates a solid foundation for experimentation, helping me figure out what works for my body. This became crystal clear when Susie and I were using the Levels CGM (continuous glucose monitor) and eating the same meals. Even with slightly different portions, our bodies had noticeably different responses. That firsthand experience reinforced my preference for data over subjective measures like, “Do I feel better doing this?” While it’s a valid approach many people use, it’s not something I find reliable.
For my protocols, I use the 6-month baseline provided by Function Health as a starting point. From there, I layer in intermediate testing when fine-tuning specific protocols or measures. This experimentation has led to great insights into what works for me—and what doesn’t. Additionally, I'm then able to focus on what protocols I'll be doing over the next 6 months and what measures I'll be using to determine success. By embracing this data-driven, individualized approach, I’ve been able to optimize my health in ways that feel both intentional and effective.