Researchers Identify 8 Lifestyle Factors that Delay Ageing

Recent research published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has shed light on the connection between heart-healthy lifestyle factors and biological aging. The study, led by Dr. Jiantao Ma from Tufts University, found that adopting heart-healthy behaviors can lead to a younger biological age and a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and overall mortality.

The study focused on DNA methylation, a process that controls gene expression and serves as a biomarker for biological age. By analyzing data from the Framingham Heart Study, researchers assessed the impact of lifestyle factors on DNA methylation and its association with cardiovascular health outcomes.

Participants in the study were evaluated using the American Heart Association’s Life’s Essential 8 tool, which assesses eight critical heart health factors including diet, physical activity, sleep, smoking status, BMI, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. The results showed that higher scores on the Life’s Essential 8 tool were associated with a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular death, and death from any cause.

Interestingly, participants with a genetic predisposition to accelerated biological aging saw even greater benefits from maintaining heart-healthy behaviors. The study highlighted the role of DNA methylation as a mediator between lifestyle factors and cardiovascular outcomes, with about 20% of the association attributed to the impact of cardiovascular health on DNA methylation.

Dr. Ma emphasized the importance of heart-healthy behaviors such as eating well, staying active, avoiding tobacco, getting enough sleep, managing weight, and maintaining healthy cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels. These factors play a crucial role in slowing down biological aging and reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

The study’s findings have significant implications for healthy aging and the prevention of cardiovascular disease. By understanding the relationship between lifestyle factors, DNA methylation, and cardiovascular health, researchers hope to develop targeted interventions to promote heart-healthy behaviors and improve overall health outcomes.

While the study provides valuable insights, it is important to note that it is based on previously collected data and may not establish causality. Ongoing research efforts are focused on including diverse racial and ethnic groups to further explore the relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and DNA methylation.

As heart disease and stroke continue to be leading causes of death, the importance of adopting heart-healthy behaviors for longevity and quality of life cannot be overstated. By prioritizing factors like diet, exercise, sleep, and stress management, individuals can take proactive steps to improve their cardiovascular health and slow down the aging process.