Let's simplify it:
Chronological Age —> Years since birth.
Biological age —> How old your body acts based on internal health markers.
The difference between them highlights crucial insights about your:
- Current health
- Future health
If your biological age is lower than chronological age, you’re aging well. If it's higher, you must consider lifestyle changes.
Chronological Age Explained
Chronological age is your actual age on the calendar. Everyone ages one year at a time. It's the age used on your official documents, birthday cards, etc.
This age is straightforward. It doesn't reveal your internal health.
Biological Age and Its Health Implications
Biological age is the reflection of how your body is aging internally. It considers aging biomarkers, such as:
- DNA methylation
- Inflammation levels
- Telomere length
- Blood sugar regulation
It tells about the functional state of your cells and organs.
The gap between biological and chronological age matters. A lower biological age means:
- Lower chronic disease risks
- Better mobility
- Sharper cognition
- Longer health span
A higher biological age is a red flag, indicating:
- Accelerated aging
- Increased stress
- Higher risk of developing heart disease
- Diabetes
- Cognitive decline
So, understanding your biological age is important. It is a key insight of your chronic wellness and a guide for optimizing your lifestyle that help:
- Reverse biological aging
- Improve overall quality of life