New aging clock reveals lifestyle secrets to longevity

Counting the candles on your birthday cake might tell you your chronological age, but it doesn’t reveal your true biological age. A groundbreaking study has introduced a molecular “aging clock” that uses blood proteins to determine how lifestyle factors control the pace of aging.

Researchers analyzed blood samples from nearly half a million individuals, evaluating the impact of 164 different lifestyle choices. From this extensive study, 25 specific factors were identified that directly influence aging at the cellular level. Even more intriguing, the study found that environmental and lifestyle elements affect aging 10 times more than genetic factors. In fact, lifestyle explained 17% of the mortality risk compared to only 2% from genetics.

The study’s findings challenge common assumptions and highlight unexpected influences on aging. For example, everyday habits such as feeling tired or even cheese consumption were among the influential factors, while many trendy wellness interventions had minimal impact. The aging clock further revealed that while environmental exposures have a significant effect on heart, lung, and liver health, genetics continue to dominate for conditions such as dementia and breast cancer.

The promising news is that of the 25 factors identified, 23 can be modified. This means you have considerable control over your biological aging process through everyday lifestyle choices. For those looking to take charge of their health, understanding these factors is the first step toward a longer, healthier life.

To discover which lifestyle elements are the most influential, dive into our detailed analysis titled “2 out of 25 Lifestyle and Environmental Factors Affect Aging the Most.”