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1. BRAIN'S BIOLOGICAL AGE PREDICTS LONGEVITY - LIFESTYLE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN AND IMMUNE SYSTEM YOUNG

BRAIN’S BIOLOGICAL AGE PREDICTS LONGEVITY - LIFESTYLE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN AND IMMUNE SYSTEM YOUNG.

A new study from Stanford reveals that your brain plays a key role in determining how long you live. Researchers assessed the biological age of various organs and found that they don’t all age at the same rate — for example, your liver could be younger while your brain ages more quickly. They discovered that the older your organs are biologically, the higher your chances of illness and death, with brain age being the most significant indicator of lifespan. While this may seem concerning, the good news is that you can influence your brain’s age through healthy lifestyle choices. In other words, your brain’s age isn’t fixed — it’s an opportunity to make positive changes.

Stanford’s lead neuroscientist, Tony Wyss-Coray, refers to the brain as the “gatekeeper of longevity.” The study showed that an older brain raises the risk of Alzheimer’s as much as having the top genetic risk factor for the disease. In contrast, a younger brain offers a level of protection similar to possessing the APOE2 gene variant, which is known to lower Alzheimer’s risk — suggesting that brain aging isn’t solely determined by genetics.

This makes brain age a powerful and manageable indicator of healthy aging. Unlike fixed DNA, the brain’s biological age can be improved through lifestyle changes and medical treatments. Researchers also found that the best survival outcomes were seen in individuals with both a youthful brain and a strong immune system. These participants were 56% less likely to die during the study, as both the brain and immune system serve as key protectors of the body — the brain by regulating hormones and essential functions, and the immune system by healing and defending tissues.

The Stanford researchers backed up what longevity specialists have long believed: your lifestyle significantly influences how your organs age. Habits like smoking, excessive alcohol use, eating processed meats, and getting poor sleep speed up aging throughout the body. On the other hand, regular intense exercise, consuming omega-3-rich fish, and maintaining good sleep hygiene are linked to slower aging and younger biological ages.

Unlike genetic markers, which remain constant, proteins found in the blood reveal ongoing biological activity in your organs. By analyzing these proteins, scientists can assess how well each organ is functioning—similar to monitoring a car’s vital systems. This evolving method opens the door to earlier detection of aging and timely interventions. Although this research represents a major step forward, it may still be several years before organ age blood tests are widely used in medical practice. Consumer versions focusing on the brain, heart, and immune system could become available within the next two to five years, giving people personal insights into their biological aging. However, widespread medical application will likely require further development of targeted treatments.

NINE PRACTICAL WAYS TO KEEP YOUR BRAIN YOUNG:

Your brain's age isn't set in stone—it's an invitation to take charge. This research encourages a shift in how we view aging: it’s not just about how old you are, but how well your brain and immune system are functioning. And the good news is, you can make choices that help keep both in great shape.  Here are 9 practical ways to keep your brain young:

1. **Stay physically active** – Regular movement boosts brain flexibility, improves blood flow, and strengthens the immune system.

2. **Eat brain-friendly foods** – Prioritize omega-3-rich fish, colorful vegetables, nuts, and berries for optimal brain nutrition.

3. **Get quality sleep** – Deep rest helps your brain detox and strengthens memory.

4. **Practice mindfulness and manage stress** – Chronic stress accelerates brain aging. Activities like meditation and meaningful social connections can calm your nervous system.

5. **Steer clear of damaging habits** – Quit smoking, limit alcohol intake, and reduce consumption of processed meats.

6. **Explore helpful supplements** – After consulting your doctor, consider options like vitamin C, multivitamins, or cod liver oil, which have shown organ-protective effects.

7. **Keep learning and connecting** – Mental stimulation and strong social ties boost cognitive resilience.

8. **Note research-backed interventions** – Some supplements and medications may help preserve organ health, especially for the brain and immune system.

9. **For women, hormone therapy in early menopause** has been linked to a younger immune profile, suggesting possible longevity benefits.

As we move into a new era of personalized health tracking, being able to measure and improve the biological age of specific organs—especially the brain—offers exciting potential. Until advanced testing becomes widely available, adopting these healthy habits can already make a powerful difference.

Peter Mugi Kuruga

Counselling Psychologist/Marriage and Family Therapist

Court Annexed Mediator