On July 8, 2026, Johnson shared that he has been diagnosed with autoimmune gastritis. This diagnosis is likely linked to his extensive efforts to reverse aging, which reportedly costs him about $2 million each year. At 48, he hopes to live to 160, and has even set a goal of achieving immortality by 2039.

From my perspective as a doctor, I see his announcement through a specific lens. Working in longevity science, I alternate between helping people extend their lives and facing the reality when those years come to an end. Johnson’s condition is manageable and well understood. What intrigues me more is how he connected his diagnosis to his life choices, while scientific evidence suggests a different narrative.

Autoimmune gastritis is a chronic condition in which the immune system damages the stomach cells responsible for acid production. Dr. Supriya Rao, a gastroenterologist, clarified that saying “my stomach is eating itself” isn’t quite correct. Instead, the immune system targets the stomach lining, impeding acid production and the absorption of B12 over time. This eventually leads to atrophy of the stomach lining.

Johnson attributes his condition to childhood sugar intake and a decade of stress. However, looking back, he already had autoimmune thyroid disease diagnosed at the age of 21, indicating his immune system’s predisposition to such issues. Studies show that a significant percentage of those with autoimmune thyroid issues might develop symptoms related to their stomach. So, it seems likely that the susceptibility existed before the diet and stress factors he cites. Interestingly, despite his meticulous health management, he still faced this diagnosis.

While I acknowledge the belief that one can completely control their health, I also recognize the limitations inherent in this mindset. There are lifestyle changes that can help at the periphery, but no one can escape all health risks, and the quest for total control is often a luxury for the wealthy. Dr. Rao emphasized that tracking health metrics is often only accessible to those who can afford it; paying attention to one’s body generally holds more value.

You Don’t Need Expensive, Extreme Measures to Live a Long, Healthy Life. Here’s What I Know Works.

The good news is that effective practices for long-term health are often simple, well-researched, and mostly cost-free. Unfortunately, they tend to get overshadowed by flashier, less effective trends. My role is to remind everyone of these accessible health strategies that truly work. Here’s a list of them, in no particular order:

  • Lift weights. Building and retaining muscle supports metabolism, bone health, balance, and independence as you age. Just two or three sessions per week can make a significant difference.
  • Do your cardio. Aerobic fitness correlates strongly with longevity and overall well-being. It doesn’t have to be intense every day; just mix in some tougher workouts once or twice a week.
  • Protect your sleep. Many who invest heavily in health often neglect their sleep, which can undo their efforts. Aim for seven to nine hours consistently and treat your sleep routine as essential. Interestingly, oversleeping can also have negative effects, so try not to go over nine hours.
  • Eat enough fiber. Fiber supports gut health, stabilizes blood sugar, and lowers the risk of various diseases. Most people don’t consume enough, but you don’t need to go to extremes—just aim for the recommended daily amount, which is 25 to 28 grams for women and 28 to 34 grams for men.
  • Manage chronic stress. Focus on alleviating ongoing mental and emotional stress rather than just acute stress. It’s detrimental over time, but managing it can be easier than it seems. Consider therapy, journaling, meditation, or confiding in friends.
  • Tend your relationships. Strong connections predict longevity as reliably as anything else, and they make life’s additional years enjoyable. Foster these relationships, viewing them as just as vital as physical health.
  • Prioritize preventive care. Regular check-ups are crucial, even if you feel healthy. Proactive care is always more effective than reactive treatments.

From my observation, those who depart life with the most peace aren’t typically those who fight the hardest to prolong it. Rather, they are the individuals who care for their bodies, listen to their needs, and accept the reality of life’s arrangement. Engaging daily in the practices outlined here is genuinely sufficient for leading a fulfilling life.