American Heart Association finds eight habits can lower biological age by up to five years
Updated
Updated · HuffPost · Apr 26
American Heart Association finds eight habits can lower biological age by up to five years
7 articles · Updated · HuffPost · Apr 26
A 2023 analysis of over 6,500 adults showed that following the 'Life’s Essential 8' habits can reduce phenotypical age significantly.
The habits include eating whole foods, regular exercise, quitting tobacco, healthy sleep, weight management, controlling cholesterol, managing blood sugar, and maintaining optimal blood pressure.
Experts emphasize that while genetics play a role, adopting these lifestyle changes can slow biological aging, reduce cardiovascular and age-related disease risk, and promote longevity regardless of starting point.
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Life’s Essential 8 Cardiovascular Health Metrics Linked to 6-Year Reduction in Biological Age
Overview
A landmark 2023 study found that individuals with high scores on the American Heart Association's Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) have a biological age about six years younger than their actual age. This effect is partly due to a younger epigenetic profile linked to better heart health, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality. Key factors like blood glucose and blood pressure control strongly slow biological aging. Moreover, LE8 adherence benefits brain health, lowers cancer risk, and improves overall quality of life. While genetics can increase aging risk, maintaining optimal cardiovascular health can reduce this burden, highlighting LE8's powerful role in slowing and partially reversing biological aging.