April 08, 2026

NBA Legend Chris Paul on Longevity, Nutrition & Staying Elite at 40

1 hour 4 minutes

Longevity isn’t just about talent—it’s about what you’re willing to change when your body starts asking for something different.

On this episode of The Dr. Hyman Show, I’m joined by Chris Paul—one of the most respected point guards of all time—to talk about the mindset that’s carried him through more than two decades in the NBA. We get into what shifted along the way and what it really takes to keep showing up at a high level year after year.

Watch the full conversation on YouTube, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

Here’s what we cover:

• Why what worked in your 20s stops working and what to do instead

• How inflammation shows up and what improves when you address it

• Why stress and poor sleep quietly drain energy and slow recovery

• What simple habits actually move the needle over time

• How understanding your data helps you make better daily decisions

Your body is always giving you signals. The earlier you begin to listen and respond, the more it can support you over time.

View Show Notes From This Episode

Get Free Weekly Health Tips from Dr. Hyman

https://drhyman.com/pages/picks?utm_campaign=shownotes&utm_medium=banner&utm_source=podcast

https://drhyman.com/pages/longevity?utm_campaign=shownotes&utm_medium=banner&utm_source=podcast

Join the 10-Day Detox to Reset Your Health

https://drhyman.com/pages/10-day-detox

Join the Hyman Hive for Expert Support and Real Results

https://drhyman.com/pages/hyman-hive

This episode is brought to you by Sunlighten, Korrus, Seed, Paleovalley, Pique and Made In Cookware.

Visit sunlighten.com and use code HYMAN to save up to $1600 today!

Visit Korrus.com/DrHyman for 15% off their newest product OIO Sphere with code HYMANSPHERE15.

Go to seed.com/hyman and use code 20HYMAN to get 20% off your first month.

Head to paleovalley.com/hyman to save 15% off your first order today.

Secure 20% off your order plus a free starter kit at piquelife.com/hyman.

Visit MadeInCookware.com and use code HYMAN10 for 10% off your order.

(0:00) Chris Paul’s mindset, falling in love with monotony, and introduction by Dr. Mark Hyman

(2:51) Chris Paul on hard work, success, and his grandfather’s influence

(9:26) Longevity in the NBA, transition to plant-based diet, and dietary impact on performance

(18:21) Effects of diet on performance, recovery, and family health habits

(22:11) Impact of diet on athletic performance and Function Health insights

(25:26) Emotional and family impact of health changes

(27:52) Stress, gut health, cortisol, and the importance of rest

(31:34) NBA players’ health insurance, short careers, and health education

(34:52) Function Health’s accessibility and intelligence

(37:32) Daily routines, hydration, and rest for athletes

(45:06) Evolution of Chris Paul’s diet, recovery, and disconnecting from technology

(48:24) The significance of sleep for athletes

(52:42) Chris Paul’s nonprofit work and food access initiatives

(55:00) Future plans, community, accountability, and health advice to a younger self

...more

View all episodes

By Dr. Mark Hyman

4.5

85748,574 ratings