The Impact of a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle on Slowing Biological Aging

A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association has found that certain lifestyle habits such as maintaining a healthy diet and getting enough physical activity may slow the process of biological aging. This research sheds light on how prioritizing heart-healthy behaviors can lower the risk of heart disease and all-cause mortality, especially for individuals predisposed to accelerated aging.

Biological age is a term used to describe the state and health of a person’s body, reflecting factors beyond just how long they have been alive. Accelerated aging is a condition where a person’s biological age is higher than their chronological age, which can increase the likelihood of developing various health conditions, particularly cardiovascular issues. While accelerated aging can be influenced by social determinants and genetic factors, this new study emphasizes the role of lifestyle habits in mitigating this risk.

Lead study author Jiantao Ma, PhD, from Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy, highlighted the importance of healthy habits such as eating well, staying active, avoiding tobacco, getting sufficient sleep, maintaining a healthy weight, and controlling cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure. These factors are crucial for reducing the burden of disease and promoting overall health.

To conduct their research, Ma and his team analyzed data from over 5,600 participants in the Framingham Heart Study, assessing their genetic predisposition to accelerated aging and their adherence to heart-healthy behaviors. Using the Life’s Essential 8 tool from the American Heart Association, researchers evaluated participants based on their diet, smoking status, physical activity, body mass index, sleep duration, cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure.

Over an 11 to 14-year follow-up period, the study found that for every 13-point increase in a person’s Life’s Essential 8 score, there was a significant decrease in the risk of cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular death, and all-cause mortality. Individuals genetically predisposed to accelerated aging experienced even greater benefits from maintaining these healthy habits, with substantial reductions in their risk of cardiovascular events and death from any cause.

While the findings of this study are promising, it’s essential to acknowledge some limitations, such as the predominantly European ancestry of the participants, which may impact the generalizability of the results. Additionally, there is currently no accessible method for individuals to determine their genetic risk for accelerated aging independently.

Moving forward, researchers like Nieca Goldberg, MD, from NYU Grossman School of Medicine, are focusing on understanding how accelerated aging contributes to heart disease and other cardiometabolic conditions. By emphasizing the importance of adhering to lifestyle factors outlined in the Life’s Essential 8 program, experts like Tamara Horwich, MD, from UCLA, underscore the significance of prioritizing a nutritious diet, physical activity, adequate sleep, tobacco avoidance, weight management, and proper control of blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol to reduce cardiovascular risk.

In conclusion, this study underscores the vital role of lifestyle habits in promoting heart health and slowing the process of biological aging. By prioritizing healthy behaviors and working with healthcare providers to assess and improve Life’s Essential 8 score, individuals can take proactive steps towards a longer, healthier life.