Experts say your body’s real age may surprise you<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\nPeople are increasingly using biological age tests because these tests help them better understand their health, but scientists say the science is still in its developing stage. The research team at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine says these tests determine the rate of cellular aging, which does not correspond to chronological time.<\/p>\n
The development of epigenetic clocks and direct-to-consumer testing kits has created a rapidly growing international market for biological age testing, which has now become a fast-growing industry.<\/p>\n
What does biological age actually measure?<\/h2>\n
Human biological age reflects actual internal physiological changes that occur as a result of genetic factors and lifestyle choices and environmental conditions. Douglas Vaughn, director of Northwestern University, explains that these tests use DNA-based markers to assess wear and tear in the body.<\/p>\n
Scientists rely on epigenetic clocks that evaluate DNA chemical modifications. Researchers like Daniel Belsky describe them as devices that measure how quickly a person is aging, akin to a speedometer rather than an odometer. <\/p>\n
The development of biological age testing has established epigenetic clocks as essential tools for this emerging scientific field.<\/p>\n
The results of their studies show significant variations as their tests have become extremely popular, according to experts. Steve Horvath, who founded the study of epigenetic aging as a research field, says most of the tools developed today are more useful for laboratory research than for daily use by people.<\/p>\n
People who experience illness or stress will find that their results change due to these temporary conditions. Cleveland Clinic researcher Christopher Hine warns that a single assessment provides only limited information which may result in undue stress or drastic behavior change.<\/p>\n
The biological age testing market is growing rapidly with more companies offering saliva and blood-based testing kits. The tests should not be used as a substitute for standard health assessment according to expert recommendations.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n