Reflections and key findings from past HEALTHSPAN sessions. Each piece is drawn directly from the science and discussions shared at our events.
James Raaff opened the first HEALTHSPAN session by challenging the reactive model of healthcare. Drawing on genomics and microbiome science, he outlined how personalised, data-driven strategies can shift the focus from lifespan extension to genuinely improving the quality of healthy years.
Dr. Serena Tongiani presented research on bergamot phytosome and its measurable effects on visceral fat, cholesterol, and metabolic profiles. Her work offered a compelling case for how natural compounds, when studied rigorously, can serve as legitimate metabolic therapeutics.
Dr Ledivia Strauss and Richard Sutton explored the intersection of functional medicine and performance science. From hormonal health and detoxification to the DNA Resilience Panel, the session made the case for a proactive healthcare model rooted in personalisation and prevention.
Dr Ash Kapoor presented his 8R Blueprint, a systematic framework for addressing root causes of poor health including hormonal imbalance, gut disruption, and chronic fatigue. The session explored how integrating modern longevity science with timeless practices creates healing that lasts.
The first HEALTHSPAN Open House replaced the speaker format with a sit-down dinner and open floor discussion. The central question — how do we democratize access to healthspan-based healthcare — generated a wide-ranging conversation about practitioner economics, patient education, and systemic change.
Dr Gabriell Prinsloo examined how gut microbiome balance underpins immune function, neurological health, hormonal regulation, and ageing. Her presentation connected the emerging science of the gut-brain axis to practical clinical interventions in functional medicine and lifestyle design.
Megan Hardy and Kate Ferguson of Mama Mycelia presented their multidisciplinary model for psychedelic-assisted healing. The session explored the synergistic use of MDMA and psilocybin for depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and outlined an ecosystemic framework that embeds clients in sustained community support.
Prof Ben Loos led a focused discussion on autophagy — the body's internal cellular recycling process — and how stressors like fasting and exercise activate it. He explored why autophagy is central to metabolic resilience and healthspan, and how emerging tools are making the process trackable beyond theoretical models.