Its all genetics...
So, a couple of days ago, I (M) met a guy I hadn't seen in about 18 years. He's around my age, in his early 40s. What surprised me the most was that he had barely aged at all. He was still overweight, but he looked almost the same as he did back in 2008.
We spoke briefly, then he went his way and I went mine.
It stung a bit because I don't really like him (there's a reason we hadn't spoken for 18 years, but that's a different discussion, lol). Still, for the past 10 years, I've been taking care of myself: working out, following a low-carb, high-protein diet, taking multivitamins and supplements, and eating healthy foods (although ever since I got married, I do treat myself every now and then). I even buy some of the popular David Sinclair supplements. And even though I think I look good for my age, I've definitely aged since 2008.
Knowing this guy (and considering he's still overweight), I don't think he follows any kind of anti-aging regimen. Back then, he used to eat whatever he wanted. Of course, I'm not ruling out the possibility that he does now, but I doubt he follows any specific strategy.
So, I think it's safe to say that while a healthy, active lifestyle and anti-aging supplements can definitely help slow down the aging process, genetics is probably the number one factor.
Thoughts?