Unlocking Your True Potential: Discover Your ‘Biological Age’ and Proven Ways to Lower It! | BreakingNews.ie

Wellness trends pop up and fade away quickly. From the low-fat craze to the latest UPF-free diets, there’s always a new health buzz. Right now, the spotlight is on “biohacking.” You might know it from Bryan Johnson’s famous anti-aging journey or the many podcasts that talk about biological health.

So, what is biohacking exactly? More importantly, how does one figure out their biological age, and should it matter? Experts are diving deep into what biological age signifies and how it might impact our longevity.

Biological age gauges how well your body is functioning based on lifestyle choices, stress, and cellular health. Unlike chronological age, which stays the same, biological age is flexible. This means that through lifestyle changes, it’s possible to lower your biological age.

Dr. Mattias Bernow, from Cellcolabs, explains that biological age reflects your body’s health based on factors like lifestyle and cellular function. “You might be 50, but if you live healthily, you could feel like you’re 35,” he says. Conversely, the same age could feel much older based on lifestyle choices.

According to Dr. Mohammed Enayat, a GP and founder of a London longevity clinic, two people who are the same chronological age can have vastly different biological ages. Stress and how one lives contribute significantly to this difference.

So, what speeds up biological aging? Stress, poor sleep, lack of exercise, unhealthy foods, and toxins in our environment are major factors, according to both experts. For parents, it’s not parenting itself, but the stress and sleep deprivation associated with it that can take a toll on biological age.

Inflammation also plays a crucial role in aging. Dr. Bernow mentions that these triggers can lead to low-grade inflammation, which contributes to age-related health issues. However, there’s hope. He states that even small, consistent lifestyle adjustments can bring about noticeable changes.

So, what lifestyle changes have the strongest scientific support for reversing biological aging? Surprisingly, the best recommendations are simple: prioritize quality sleep, regular movement, a whole-food diet, healthy relationships, and minimize harmful substances. Practices like caloric moderation, intermittent fasting, and resistance training are also beneficial but may affect men and women differently.

Genetics play a part too, but not as much as you’d think. “While genes play a role, they account for only 20 to 30% of aging outcomes,” Dr. Enayat notes. Environment and lifestyle can influence up to 80% of how we age.

What about supplements? While they’re often marketed heavily, few stand up to scrutiny. Some, like protein, magnesium, and collagen, show promise for health benefits when used correctly. Dr. Enayat highlights that supplements should enhance, not replace, healthy habits.

To find out your biological age, a blood test analyzing DNA methylation patterns is the most reliable method. There are various tests available, such as the Horvath Clock and GlycanAge. Notably, Bryan Johnson’s approach features the DunedinPACE test, suggesting he ages at just 0.66 years per year.

Experts recommend a balanced approach to lifestyle. Dr. Enayat incorporates walking, strength training, a plant-based diet, and supplements like omega-3 and vitamin D. Meanwhile, Dr. Bernow focuses on family time and minimal alcohol. “It’s all about consistency,” he emphasizes. “Aging well isn’t about making drastic changes, but about small, sustainable habits over time.”

In conclusion, while biohacking may hint at futuristic methods, the real strategy for aging gracefully lies in simple, everyday choices. Balancing health and relaxation is key—not just in today’s fast-paced world, but for a healthier future.

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