Although women live longer on average than men, that does not mean that they age more slowly. We reveal what significantly influences the aging process in women and can also stimulate it.
Women not only live longer than men, they also age more slowly – partly because their immune systems are more resilient. But genetic factors only explain 30 to 40 percent of life expectancy. Lifestyle has a much greater influence. It is all the more important for women to know the factors that can accelerate the aging process.
Longevity researcher explains: This factor causes women to age the fastest
On average, women live around five years longer than men. According to forecasts, this gap will even increase in the future. But longer life expectancy does not automatically mean healthier aging. Because longevity is above all a question of prevention, as Prof. Dr. Sandra Eifert from the Leipzig Heart Center in an interview with The standard emphasized. This is where women in particular need to catch up.
“Interestingly, women often organize preventive care for the entire family, but often don’t take care of it themselves. But they have clear biological advantages,” explains the expert. The X chromosome contains numerous genes that are of central importance for heart, brain and immune functions. Women have two X chromosomes, while men only have one – a genetic advantage that has a positive effect on the chances of survival. Women also have longer telomeres. These protective caps at the ends of the chromosomes are considered markers of the aging process: the longer they are, the slower the cells age.
At the same time, external factors also have a significant influence on aging. Prof. Dr. Among other things, he harkens back to the social demand for permanent perfection: in external appearance as well as in professional and family life. “This creates enormous stress and that in turn is a major cause of illness. Nothing causes women to age faster than stress,” says the expert. In comparison, according to the doctor, men should generally have less stress and be able to process it better thanks to the testosterone. Women, on the other hand, are said to react to the same stressful stimulus with stronger rashes in almost all areas (heart, brain, blood pressure, hormonal balance).
What can women do to combat stress?
Prof. Dr. Eifert emphasizes that women specifically need relief. This can be achieved through hobbies, meditation or regular exercise. In addition, anger is an underestimated health factor: women have often learned to suppress anger, although from a medical point of view it makes sense to reduce these emotions constructively – for example through sport.
This approach differs significantly from common longevity trends such as supplements or biohacks, which are primarily aimed at maximum performance and life extension and are often based on male needs. For women, however, mental health is of central importance. “Mental stress can make us significantly more ill. No supplement in the world can compensate for that,” says the heart surgeon.
In addition to exercise and meditation, other measures can also help you consciously slow down your everyday life. Something like that advises Utopia.de to say no more often – for example to appointments or appointments that are perceived as stressful. Regular time out is just as important: walks in nature, writing a diary, consciously enjoying a cup of tea or simply doing nothing. A targeted digital detox can also help relieve stress by consciously withdrawing offline.
About the Author
