8 Heart Health Habits to Slow Biological Aging by Six Years
Adopting the American Heart Association’s Life's Essential 8 can make you biologically younger and enhance overall well-being.
Unlocking the Secret to a Longer Life
New research has revealed a powerful link between heart health and the aging process. Scientists have discovered that strong cardiovascular health can slow down how quickly our bodies age. This exciting finding suggests that taking care of your heart isn't just good for today, but also for your future well-being.
Heart Health Slows Biological Aging
A study analyzing data from 6,500 adults found that those with excellent heart health appeared biologically six years younger than their actual age. This means their bodies aged slower compared to others. On the flip side, individuals with poorer heart health showed signs of faster biological aging. These results highlight the crucial role of the heart in overall aging.
Insights from Experts
Nour Makarem, the lead researcher, explained that better heart health is directly linked to slower biological aging. She emphasized that as heart health improves, the rate at which we age biologically decreases. This relationship was measured using a tool called phenotypic age, which helps predict future health risks.
The Impact of Poor Heart Health
The study also found that individuals with lower heart health were biologically older than their peers. For example, people with high cardiovascular health had an average biological age of 36 compared to their actual age of 41. In contrast, those with low heart health had a biological age of 57, despite being 53 years old. This shows how vital heart health is in maintaining a youthful body.
Life's Essential 8: Steps to a Healthier Heart
The research used the American Heart Association's 'Life's Essential 8' checklist to assess heart health. These eight steps include eating better, staying active, quitting tobacco, getting healthy sleep, managing weight, controlling cholesterol, managing blood sugar, and maintaining healthy blood pressure. Following these guidelines can significantly improve cardiovascular health and slow down the aging process.
Conclusion: Live Healthier, Live Longer
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits not only helps you live longer but also ensures a higher quality of life. By focusing on heart health, you can slow down the aging process and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. This study underscores the importance of taking proactive steps today to enjoy a healthier and more vibrant future.