An unexpected cure for aging found

Scientists from Cornell University, Harvard, and the University of Arizona have established that strong social connections can slow down biological aging and reduce inflammation levels. This is reported in a study published in the journal Brain, Behavior, & Immunity – Health (BB&IH).

The work is based on data from more than two thousand adult participants in the long-term MIDUS project (Midlife in the United States). For assessment, a comprehensive indicator was used - "cumulative social advantage" (CSA), which includes strong family relationships, emotional support, participation in religious communities, and active interaction with society.

It was found that in people with high levels of CSA, epigenetic clocks - biomarkers that reflect the rate of aging of the organism, slowed down. In addition, they had lower levels of interleukin-6, a protein associated with chronic inflammation and accelerated aging. At the same time, no significant connections between CSA and stress hormones - cortisol, cortisone, and catecholamines - were found. This indicates that the influence of social factors on aging is mainly related to epigenetic processes and inflammation.

The authors emphasize: supporting social contacts is not only emotional comfort but also an important physiological resource for the body. The results of the study confirm that social connections are embedded in the biological mechanisms of health and can really slow down aging and extend active longevity.