8 proven heart-healthy habits to slow down the aging process

New Study Shows Maintaining Heart-Healthy Habits May Slow Biological Aging by Six Years

New research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023 suggests that adhering to heart-healthy habits can have a significant impact on biological aging. The study found that improving cardiovascular health is linked to a slower pace of biological aging and may even increase longevity.

According to senior study author Nour Makarem, PhD, it was observed that as heart health improves, biological aging slows down, indicating a dose-response relationship. The study utilized Life’s Essential 8 checklist, which includes recommendations such as eating better, being more active, quitting tobacco, getting healthy sleep, managing weight, controlling cholesterol, managing blood sugar, and managing blood pressure.

Results from the checklist showed that individuals with the highest “score” had a biological age on average six years younger than their chronological age, indicating the significant impact of heart health on aging. Those with poor cardiovascular health had an average biological age four years older than their chronological age. Therefore, even gradual improvements in lifestyle behaviors can be beneficial.

Biological age provides insight into a person’s overall health on a cellular level. Blood tests are used to determine the biomarkers that impact biological aging, which illustrate the body’s aging process and the likelihood of getting sick or dying. Chronological and biological age may align for some individuals more than others. Those who take excellent care of themselves may even slow the aging process.

The research emphasizes that risk factors leading to heart disease can also accelerate the body’s aging process. Conversely, maintaining good heart health has a positive ripple effect on overall health and longevity. Making healthy lifestyle changes to improve cardiovascular health is beneficial regardless of age.

Cardiovascular health is directly tied to morbidity and mortality, underscoring the importance of controlling cardiovascular risk factors to promote healthy lives. Moreover, behavioral changes can have a significant impact on heart health, with gradual, sustained changes prioritized for long-term benefits.

In conclusion, adopting heart-healthy habits is vital for slowing biological aging and maintaining overall health. With the right lifestyle changes, individuals can significantly improve their cardiovascular health and the aging process.

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