We’ve reached the final article in our series of mini articles addressing various aging pathways. If you missed any of the previous nine articles, be sure to read through them for a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms influencing aging, lifespan, and health span.
Here, we examine the role of lifestyle factors in contributing to a longer and healthier life. From diet and exercise to stress management, these lifestyle choices influence how we age.
This article is part ten of a ten-part series on reproductive aging.
- How Do Growth Pathways & Nutrient Sensing Impact Our Aging?
- Nurturing Resilience Against Molecular Damage
- Harnessing Hormesis and Mitohormesis for Longevity
- The Nrf2 Pathway and Iron’s Impact on Aging and Cancer
- The Role of Repair and Recycling in Longevity
- Enhancing Longevity Through TFEB Activation and Nutrient Sensing
- Epigenetic Reprogramming: A Gateway to Youth
- The Importance of Telomerase: Extending Chromosomal Integrity
- The Impact of LDL Cholesterol and ApoE on Longevity
- Lifestyle Factors and Their Role in Promoting Longevity
Harnessing Exercise and Fasting for Brain Health
Exercise, particularly resistance training like weight lifting, and intermittent fasting in animal models, have both been associated with increased secretion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). As individuals age, BDNF levels naturally decline, but studies have shown that restoring them through gene therapy can extend health span in mice. These findings underscore the significance of lifestyle factors in promoting longevity and preserving brain health.
Cortisol: The Double-Edged Sword
Cortisol, commonly known as the stress hormone, can have both positive and negative effects on the body, depending on the context and duration of stress. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol levels can be detrimental, leading to muscle loss and skin breakdown.
However, mild or temporary stress (eustress) can be beneficial through hormesis. Elevated cortisol levels are seen with caloric restriction and intermittent fasting, and vitamin C can modulate the cortisol-mediated stress response.
Insulin Sensitivity and Aging
Efficient insulin secretion is crucial to prevent excessive blood sugar levels that can damage tissues by producing advanced glycation end products (AGEs), a contributing factor to aging. High insulin sensitivity and low blood sugar levels are health-promoting, although they may be less critical for lifespan extension than previously thought.
Inflammaging: The Hidden Driver of Aging
Sterile inflammation, a low-level chronic inflammatory state, increases with age and is a key driver of aging, often called “inflammaging.” This condition can be measured through blood panels looking at markers like CRP, TNFa, and IL-6, which are associated with age-related diseases.
Recent studies indicate that senescent cells significantly contribute to inflammation, which anti-aging compounds like rapamycin and fisetin can alleviate.
Taking a Proactive Approach to Longevity and Overall Health
By exploring the crucial factors affecting metabolic health and longevity, we’ve spotlighted the intricate relationship between our biological mechanisms and lifestyle choices. Understanding the impacts of LDL cholesterol, ApoE, parabiosis, BDNF, cortisol, insulin sensitivity, and inflammaging can empower us to take control and make informed decisions for a longer and healthier life.
For deeper insights into metabolic health and its impact on aging, read our complete article, The Pathways of Aging: Metabolic Health.
