Have you ever considered the possibility of reversing the aging process? While we can’t literally turn back time, there are effective ways to slow down aging. The good news is that simple, daily habits can significantly enhance our well-being.
I monitor my health through lab testing with Function Health. Recently, one of the tests provided insights into my biological age, which differs from my chronological age. While I am 38, my biological age was revealed to be 21.7.
This discovery sparked my curiosity. I delved into the various factors assessed in the test and how I might be contributing to a lower biological age. Ultimately, there are strategies to enhance cellular health as we age.
Understanding Biological Age
In this post, I’ll explain the concept of biological age and how it’s measured (particularly in the test I underwent). I will also explore lifestyle factors that I believe have helped me achieve a lower biological age. Regardless of whether you choose to take a test like this, I genuinely believe we all possess the ability to nurture cellular health and age vibrantly.
Biological Age vs. Chronological Age: What’s the Difference?
Chronological age reflects the number of birthdays we’ve celebrated—it’s a fixed value. In contrast, biological age assesses how optimally our body functions at a cellular level, indicating the pace at which we age internally.
The gold standard for measuring biological age is through a DNA methylation test, which examines how genes express themselves based on chemical markers. Although this test is fascinating and highly accurate, it tends to be expensive and less accessible.
The Function Health test I took doesn’t utilize methylation; it analyzes a variety of biomarkers from a simple blood draw. While it’s not the gold standard, its comprehensive and repeatable nature provides valuable insights that resonate with my personal health journey.
How I Assessed My Biological Age
The biological age test involved an analysis of nine biomarkers that together illustrate the aging process. These include indicators related to liver and kidney health, inflammation, immune response, nutrient status, and blood sugar regulation.
Albumin
Albumin is a protein produced by the liver, essential for nutrient transport and fluid balance. Hospitals often monitor this during patient recovery, and it serves as a key marker for overall cellular health.
I believe that consuming ample high-quality protein and staying mineral-infused in my hydration has greatly contributed to my healthy albumin levels. Additionally, I support my liver health through practices like sauna sessions, castor oil packs, and bitter herbs.
Creatinine
Creatinine is another critical marker reflecting kidney function, influenced by hydration and toxin levels. Over the years, I’ve focused on maintaining proper mineral intake, hydration, and minimizing environmental toxins. I prefer clean household products, filter our water, and use gentle detox supplements, including Zeolite.
Daily sweating—whether through exercise or sauna—is part of my routine, and I pay careful attention to hydration, enhancing my water with minerals throughout the day.
Blood Sugar
Glucose levels are crucial as blood sugar regulation significantly impacts aging. I emphasize consuming protein with every meal, particularly in the morning, while avoiding refined sugars and crafting balanced meals. Post-meal movement, especially walking, greatly aids me.
I’ve also observed that sunlight, particularly in the morning, improves my blood sugar regulation by helping establish healthy circadian rhythms that enhance insulin sensitivity.
Inflammation
Inflammation plays a critical role, and one of the markers assessed was high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). This is a measure we want to keep low, and this test is more sensitive than a typical CRP test.
Regular sauna use has notably impacted my results. I incorporate anti-inflammatory foods and supplements, practice fasting occasionally, and use omega-3s and other anti-inflammatory tools like Fatty15. These practices enhance my overall well-being beyond the numbers.
Lymphocytes and Immune Function
Other markers included lymphocyte percentage, which indicates immune function. I prioritize gut health by ensuring adequate fiber and leafy greens, relying on Just Thrive’s probiotic to support this. Sun-derived vitamin D and sufficient zinc are also crucial for a robust immune system.
Additional Health Markers
The test also assessed MCV, which reflects nutrient status, such as B12 and folate levels. I believe my focus on nutrient-dense foods is vital here. The analysis also included RDW, indicating red blood cell variability that might suggest stress or micronutrient deficiencies. Supporting gut health, ensuring sunlight exposure for natural vitamin D, and consuming a diverse array of nutrient-rich foods likely contributed to maintaining healthy levels.
Lastly, the test evaluated white blood cell count for immune health and considered factors like sleep, stress management, and detoxification. Additionally, ALP levels were measured, indicating liver, bone, and bile health. I’ve included bitters in my regimen (also from Just Thrive), supporting liver health and detoxification. NAC and glutathione can also be beneficial for optimizing ALP levels.
Factors That May Have Lowered My Biological Age
Reflecting on all the data and my recent practices, certain key patterns have emerged. My approach has not been about rapid changes; rather, it’s been about gradually integrating habits over time through experimentation. A few guiding principles stand out.
Nutrition
Nutrient density stands as a primary focus. First thing in the morning, I prioritize a protein-rich breakfast full of micronutrients, ideally within an hour of waking and before caffeine. I find that when I hydrate with minerals, bask in natural sunlight, and have a nourishing breakfast early, everything else—energy levels, blood sugar stability, and even mood—falls into place more easily.
Maintaining blood sugar regulation is another crucial aspect. Unstable glucose levels can indicate inflammation in the body. For me, this means consuming ample protein and minimizing processed foods and refined sugars. Regular movement after meals has become a part of my routine.
I’ve experimented with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to understand what works for me, leading to eye-opening insights. I’ve learned that even minor adjustments, like walking after lunch or avoiding late-night snacks, can produce significant benefits.
Solar-Powered
Sunlight might be one of the most underrated elements in our wellness toolkit. I like to humorously claim that I’m solar-powered! Morning sunlight supports circadian rhythms, improves energy levels, and balances hormones. Midday sunlight aids vitamin D production and mitochondrial health.
I aim to spend time outdoors early in the morning and at midday whenever feasible. While I don’t overexpose myself or risk sunburn, I also don’t harbor unnecessary fears about sun exposure as conventionally suggested.
Movement and Activity
Physical activity is another crucial pillar. I walk daily, sometimes with a weighted vest, and engage in strength training several times a week. This practice has transformed how I look and feel. As Dr. Gabrielle Lyon states, “Muscle is the organ of longevity,” and I’ve genuinely come to believe that.
Recovery is equally essential. I sauna a few times weekly, treat sleep as a priority, and make time for enjoyment, relationships, and rest. I’ve prioritized the art of slowing down, savoring life, and avoiding constant “go” mode, which I believe significantly impacts my biological state.
Supplements for Healthy Aging
On the supplement front, I emphasize quality options and adapt my intake based on bodily needs. My staples include methylated B vitamins, minerals from various sources, broad-spectrum magnesium, omega-3s, glutathione, and collagen. I also support methylation with choline-rich foods and supplements and sometimes utilize trimethylglycine or zinc, depending on lab results and personal condition.
Mind-Body Connection and Epigenetics
Research increasingly highlights the impact of our thoughts, emotions, and beliefs on our biology. Books like The Biology of Belief delve into the profound ways our minds influence gene expression and overall health. I’ve observed this dynamic in my life as well. When I maintain a grounded, grateful, and balanced emotional state, my physical health reflects that harmony.
While we may not control every situation, we can cultivate habits, routines, and internal narratives that bolster our biology rather than hinder it. I firmly believe our emotions, relationships, and mindset play an integral role in health—perhaps even a fundamental one.
Aging Gracefully from the Inside Out
Biological age is merely a figure, and while it’s thrilling to see that number decrease, the true essence lies in how we feel and function. For me, monitoring metrics like HRV, glucose, and inflammation has proven beneficial. However, it’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about being attuned to what helps me thrive.
I intend to retest every 6 to 12 months to observe shifts in my biological age with varying habits and seasons, maintaining an awareness of my health. Yet, beyond the numbers, I will continue to focus on foundational elements: nutrient-dense foods, quality sleep, sunlight, joyful movement, genuine connections, and adequate rest.
If you’re interested in exploring a biological age test, consider the one I utilized through Function Health. However, you do not need a test to start enhancing your cellular health. Begin with simple and sustainable steps: hydrate (with minerals!), consume whole foods, bask in sunlight, prioritize sleep, and move your body. Additional strategies can gradually be incorporated.
Ultimately, age is simply a number; how we live our lives holds greater significance than the candles on our birthday cake.
Have you ever conducted a biological age test? Share your thoughts in the comments!
