Chris Hemsworth Opens Up About Alzheimer Gene Discovery and Lifestyle Overhaul

Health | By Emma Williams | March 31, 2026

Chris Hemsworth is continuing to speak candidly about his health journey, sitting down for an extensive interview with Men's Health in which the "Thor" star detailed the dramatic lifestyle changes he's made since learning he carries two copies of the APOE4 gene — the strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. The 42-year-old Australian actor, who first revealed the discovery in his 2022 Disney+ series "Limitless," said the knowledge has fundamentally reshaped every aspect of his daily routine.

"When you find out you're eight to ten times more likely to develop Alzheimer's, it rewires your brain — no pun intended," Hemsworth told the magazine. "I went from training to look like a superhero to training to protect my brain. Every workout, every meal, every night of sleep is now about longevity." The actor described a regimen that includes daily meditation, cold water immersion, a Mediterranean-style diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and high-intensity interval training designed to boost cardiovascular health and neuroplasticity.

Hemsworth has also become a vocal advocate for early genetic testing, partnering with the Alzheimer's Association to fund a nationwide screening initiative in Australia. "Knowledge is power," he said. "I'd rather know and fight than not know and be blindsided. My grandfather had Alzheimer's, and watching that was devastating. I refuse to let that be my story if there's anything I can do about it."

Medical experts have praised Hemsworth's openness, noting that celebrity advocacy can significantly impact public awareness and testing rates. Dr. Jessica Caldwell, a neuropsychologist at the Cleveland Clinic, told GetCelebrity that Hemsworth's lifestyle changes align perfectly with current research. "What Chris is doing — prioritizing sleep, exercise, stress management, and diet — represents the best evidence-based approach we have for reducing Alzheimer's risk," she said. "His willingness to share his story is saving lives."