Can You Reset Your Biological Age to Live a Longer, Healthier Life?

Scientists say biological age is more important than the number of years you’ve been alive, called chronological age. Biological age is about how old your cells and body seem based on your health, genes, lifestyle, and diet. Some people’s cells age faster or slower than their chronological age. Epigenetic clocks, which track changes in our DNA, help measure biological age and might predict lifespan and health.

Aging happens because of damage over time, but some experts believe we might slow it down. The World Health Organization even calls aging a disease, suggesting it might be treated like other illnesses. Environmental factors like pollution and smoking can speed up aging, while good habits like eating healthy and exercising can slow it down.

Scientists study biomarkers to understand aging better. Biomarkers like DNA methylation, where chemical changes in our DNA affect gene activity, are key indicators. Shortening telomeres, which protect our DNA, and DNA damage also play a role in aging.

Your environment can impact how quickly you age. For instance, people in polluted or poorer areas often have shorter lifespans. Biological age tests, like the GrimAge test, measure these factors, but their accuracy varies, and they are not yet perfect.

Lifestyle changes can potentially reverse biological age. For example, metformin, a diabetes drug, has shown promise in extending lifespan in animals. Diet, exercise, and reducing stress also help. Research suggests it’s never too late to start making healthy changes to slow aging and improve quality of life.

Understanding and controlling biological age could lead to longer, healthier lives, but more research is needed to find reliable treatments.

Read the full article “Can You Reset Your Biological Age to Live a Longer, Healthier Life?” by Leslie Alan Horvitz

🔭   This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.