Life expectancy has increased tremendously in the last few decades. Scientists at 23andMe would like to better understand healthy aging. We want to understand how genetics and lifestyle affect how our bodies change as we get older.
Normal Aging
Normal aging results in changes in the cardiovascular system. It impacts bone health, the digestive tract, and many other of the body’s systems. Aging also increases the risk of developing a number of neurodegenerative disorders. Some of those include Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Our chances of aging well also depend on economic status, race, and gender.
Diet and Exercise
Eating well and getting enough physical activity helps to promote healthy aging. However, scientists don’t know all the factors that contribute to living longer and healthier lives.
Brain Game
We assume that, like a knife dulled by repeated use, as we age our brain loses the sharp edge of youth, but the truth is more complicated than that. Some...
Read More
Getting Long in the Telomeres
Robin Smith, Health Content Scientist Barring injury, disease or capture, some scientists believe that a lobster could live virtually forever. They are amongst a select group of animals, including tortoises,...
Read More
SNPwatch: Researchers Identify Variation Associated with Biological Aging
The candles on your birthday cake tell you how many years you’ve lived through, but they might not be a reflection of your biological age. Little bits of DNA called...
Read More