Loneliness has become an alarming concern in today’s digital age, with 25% of older people and 5-15% of adolescents experiencing social isolation. A recent study published in Nature Human Behaviour found that loneliness is linked to increased risk of disease and death.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge and Fudan University explored the biological processes behind loneliness and its impact on health. They discovered that proteins play a significant role in this link, with five specific proteins (GFRA1, ADM, FABP4, TNFRSF10A, and ASGR1) being associated with loneliness.
The study found that levels of these proteins were positively correlated with feelings of loneliness, indicating that people who feel lonely tend to have higher protein levels compared to those who do not. Additionally, more than half of the proteins studied were linked to cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and death.
While social isolation and loneliness can be detrimental to health, the study suggests that having good social relationships may promote health by reducing the levels of these harmful proteins. Face-to-face interactions are particularly important for fostering deep connections, as they allow for non-verbal communication and empathy.
In conclusion, understanding the biological processes behind loneliness is crucial for developing strategies to combat its effects on our bodies and minds. By prioritizing meaningful social connections, we can build a more flourishing society where everyone has access to good health and wellbeing.
Source: https://theconversation.com/loneliness-and-social-isolation-are-linked-to-specific-proteins-new-research-245416