Scientists say that genetics are not the primary cause of aging, but rather environmental factors and lifestyle choices. A recent study published in Nature Medicine found that nearly 165 environmental elements and genetic risk factors played a bigger role in biological aging than expected.
Researchers analyzed data from over half a million people in the UK Biobank and discovered that household income, socioeconomic status, home ownership, employment status, and living with a partner were among the top environmental factors influencing aging. Lifestyle factors like smoking, physical activity levels, sleep patterns, diet (which was not assessed due to lack of reliable data), and stress management also contributed significantly.
Experts agree that these environmental and lifestyle factors have a “huge role” in aging. However, the impact on cellular and brain aging varies depending on the disease. For example, smoking can accelerate certain diseases like cancer but not others. Environmental stressors like air pollution can also contribute to conditions like cardiovascular disease and cancer.
While genes still play a role, especially in genetic diseases, lifestyle choices can significantly affect biological age and disease development risk. To slow down aging, experts recommend aiming for 7-8 hours of sleep, eating a plant-forward diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking, practicing good oral hygiene, managing stress levels, and using sunscreen.
By understanding the role of these surprising factors in aging, individuals can take control of their health and make informed lifestyle choices to potentially slow down biological aging.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/scientists-factors-really-age-probably-130000853.html