The Secret to Staying Young: A Comparative Look at Bryan Johnson and Chuando Tan’s Anti-Aging Routines

The Quest for Eternal Youth

Aging has long been considered a natural, inevitable process. But in the modern era, driven by rapid technological advancement and breakthroughs in biomedical science, some individuals are defying this assumption. Among them is American billionaire Bryan Johnson, who has dedicated his life—and over $2 million annually—to reversing the aging process and restoring his body to its 18-year-old state.

On the opposite end of the spectrum is Chuando Tan, a Singaporean photographer who, without any expensive treatments or surgery, has maintained the appearance of someone in their 30s well into his late 50s. These two figures present contrasting approaches to staying young, yet both offer invaluable lessons for anyone seeking a healthier, longer life.

Two Paths to Youth: Science vs. Natural Habits

1. Bryan Johnson: Science, Wealth, and the Pursuit of Reversal Aging

Born in 1977, Bryan Johnson is a tech entrepreneur who has become widely known for his radical biohacking efforts. He employs a full team of doctors and specialists, takes over 100 supplements daily, and follows a highly regimented lifestyle designed to slow, stop, or even reverse aging. His extreme approach even includes experimental blood transfusions using his son’s plasma. Johnson’s daily life is so structured and precise that it has been the subject of the Netflix documentary "The Man Who Wants to Live Forever".

His philosophy focuses not only on external appearance but on biological age—the condition of internal organs, skin, and cognitive function. Through regular testing and advanced diagnostics, he quantifies his body's performance to align it with that of a much younger person. Johnson is a prime example of how science, discipline, and substantial financial resources can be harnessed to push the boundaries of human aging.

2. Chuando Tan: Ageless Through Simplicity and Discipline

Born in 1966, Chuando Tan became internationally recognized after being dubbed "the world’s youngest-looking man" by the New York Post in 2017. Unlike Johnson, Tan’s youthful appearance is not the result of expensive treatments or high-tech interventions. Instead, he credits his looks to a strict and consistent lifestyle focusing on natural foods, exercise, and proper sleep.

Tan emphasizes that "70% of youth comes from diet, 30% from exercise." His morning routine includes six boiled eggs—eating only two yolks to reduce cholesterol. Meals consist of lean proteins like chicken and fish, whole grains, and plenty of vegetables. He avoids red meat and never consumes sugary foods, refined carbs, processed items, sauces, caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco. Even sauces are rinsed off his food if present.

Though he allows himself a rare indulgence—ice cream once a month—his meals are otherwise clean and controlled. He also ensures to fast for 5 to 7 hours before bedtime to optimize sleep quality.

In terms of exercise, Tan swims daily for an hour and performs compound movements like squats and bench presses three to four times a week. These habits, started in his 20s, have compounded into decades of wellness and vitality. He avoids supplements, relying instead on natural vitamin D from sunlight and occasional intake of vitamin C.

3. Shared Principles, Different Paths

Despite their vastly different approaches, Bryan Johnson and Chuando Tan share key principles. Both avoid harmful foods, prioritize high-quality sleep, and integrate regular exercise into their routines. They understand that youthfulness is not merely a cosmetic issue but a reflection of internal health and daily habits.

Johnson, impressed by Tan’s appearance, still noted that true youth is determined by biological markers, suggesting that inner health must be measured and monitored. In contrast, Tan’s lifestyle proves that with discipline and consistency, one can naturally maintain vitality and a youthful look without scientific intervention.

The Power of Habit Over Money

These two case studies offer powerful insights: you don’t need millions of dollars or futuristic treatments to stay young. While Johnson represents what modern science can achieve with enough resources, Tan proves that anyone can attain longevity and youth through mindful habits and discipline.

Both men serve as reminders that the key to aging well lies in the daily choices we make—what we eat, how we move, when we sleep. If we commit to these principles, biological age may become just a number.

As Chuando Tan exemplifies, even without wealth or advanced treatments, we all possess the tools to live younger, healthier, and longer. Ultimately, the greatest anti-aging strategy is not found in a pill or machine—but in sustainable, daily habits.