Chronological age refers to the number of years a person has lived since their birth. On the other hand, biological age refers to how old a person’s body seems to be in terms of health and physiological functioning. While the former is dependent only on time, biological age can get influenced by a number of factors. According to a new study, stress is one of them as it can increase your biological age.
A new study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism, found that the biological age of humans undergoes a rapid increase in response to diverse forms of stress. However, it also found that it can be reversed when the tension eases. “Previous reports have hinted at the possibility of short-term fluctuations in biological age, but the question of whether such changes are reversible has, until now, remained unexplored,” co-senior study author James White of Duke University School of Medicine was quoted as saying by Healthline.
For the study, the researchers used DNA methylation clocks to measure and note changes in biological age as it responds to stress in humans and mice. They looked at periods of trauma in humans, such as emergency surgery, postpartum recovery, and Covid-19 recovery. The researchers found that the increase in biological age was restored within days.
Highlighting the impact of stress on biological age, Dr Vijay Kumar Gurjar, Senior Consultant and Head of the Department of Geriatric Medicine, Primus Super Speciality Hospital said that stress can accelerate the biological ageing process, leading to premature ageing. “When an individual experiences stress, the body responds by releasing stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which can increase heart rate, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. These physiological changes are helpful in the short term, but chronic stress can cause damage to cells and tissues throughout the body.”
He further explained that telomeres, which are the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, can be shortened by stress, which can contribute to cellular ageing. “Shortened telomeres have been linked to age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Chronic stress can also lead to inflammation, which can contribute to the development of many diseases associated with ageing. Therefore, managing stress through relaxation techniques, exercise, and other stress-reducing activities may slow the ageing process and promote healthy ageing,” Dr Gurjar said.
Agreeing, Dr Aniket Mule, Consultant, Internal Medicine, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road said that according to the available evidence, stress can increase one’s biological age. “So, when one is experiencing stress there are naturally occurring physical or emotional tension episodes that would have the same reaction, triggering reversible changes in biological age. Thus, chronic stress raises mortality by increasing biological age. Apart from that, stress can impact your overall well-being by stealing your peace of mind. If you are under constant stress then it is better to manage it and lead a healthy life. Not doing so can land you in trouble,” he said.
Here are some tips to effectively manage stress, according to Dr Gurjar:
*Exercise regularly: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress levels and improve overall health. Regular exercise can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that contribute to premature ageing.
*Practice relaxation techniques: Meditation, deep breathing, and yoga are all effective relaxation techniques that can help to reduce stress levels and promote healthy ageing.
*Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Lack of sleep can increase stress levels and contribute to premature ageing.
*Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, two factors that contribute to premature ageing.
*Avoid unhealthy behaviours: Avoiding smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use can all help to prevent premature ageing and promote healthy ageing.
*Build a strong support system: Having a strong social support system can help to reduce stress levels and promote healthy ageing. This can include friends, family, or a support group.
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First published on: 24-04-2023 at 21:40 IST