Can Stress Increase Your Biological Age? How To Reverse It

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The fact is, we all experience stress from time to time, it's almost a part of our daily lives, even when we know how detrimental it can be to our mental, emotional, and physical health. But, we just can't seem to help it, right?

Stress can accelerate the ageing process. Don't believe me? Well, it has been proven by a number of researchers. Stress has been shown to increase biological age in people, according to a recent study [1]. Now, you may think what is biological age? Well, let's take a look.

What Is Your Biological Age?

Biological age is a term used to describe how old someone is based on the physical characteristics or functions of the body, in contrast to chronological age, which is measured by the amount of time that has elapsed since a person was born.

For instance, a person's biological age can be determined by measuring their cardiovascular fitness, bone density, or levels of inflammation, points out studies.

Is biological age different that the 'normal' age?

The normal age can be termed chronological age. There may be a difference between your chronological and biological ages. Chronological age refers to the number of years you have lived.

However, a 2019 study, Chronological age, social age and biological age, has shown that biological age is a more accurate predictor of the onset of disease and death than chronological age.

Now, let's check how your biological age is affected by stress.

How Does Stress Increase Your Biological Age?

A study on severe stress suggests that it increases life expectancy by increasing biological age. There is a fight or flight reaction in the body and mind when we are faced with a stressful situation, whether real or perceived.

When the brain sends signals to the body, it prepares itself to either fight or flee from the threat. Some physiological reactions include increased heart rate and blood pressure, quickened breathing, etc.

The body produces cortisol to facilitate extended alertness in response to threats, all of which affect your biological ageing process.

The presence of high levels of cortisol over a prolonged period of time can result in increased appetite, fat tissue accumulation, high blood pressure, heart and lung strain, insomnia, anxiety, and muscle tension.

It can all have a detrimental effect on your health and well-being, as well as taking time away from your daily activities.

How To Reverse Biological Age?

Most of us wish we could turn back the clock, and although there is no miracle cure for reversing biological age, there are steps you can take to help slow down the ageing process. Here are a few tips to help you reverse biological ageing:

Manage stress: This is one of the most important steps in reversing biological ageing. Stress is one of the top factors that can cause premature ageing. Take steps to reduce stress levels, such as practising relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, and yoga [2].

The other tips that help reverse biological age are as follows:

• Exercise regularly
• Eat anti-ageing foods with antioxidants
• Get enough sleep
• Stay hydrated
• Protect your skin

On A Final Note...

Stress is a powerful force that affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life. Taking steps to manage stress can help improve physical and mental health and enhance overall well-being.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.