"People have long given up on the search for the Fountain of Youth, a mythical spring that could reverse aging. But for some scientists, the hunt has not ended; it's just moved to a different place. These modern-day Ponce de Leóns are investigating whether gut microbes hold the secret to aging well. The gut microbiome refers to the vast collection of microscopic organisms - bacteria, fungi and viruses - that largely inhabit the colon."
"People are most familiar with outward signs of aging, such as wrinkles and graying hair, but there are also microscopic changes taking place deep inside. The gut microbes of older people tend to be less diverse, with more bacteria that promote inflammation and other hallmarks of aging. Changes to the microbiome across age are so consistent that algorithms can reliably predict a person's age based on their microbiome composition."
Gut microbiome composition shifts with age, often becoming less diverse and enriched with bacteria that promote inflammation. These microbial changes accompany microscopic physiological alterations beyond visible aging signs. Algorithms can predict chronological age from microbiome composition due to consistent age-related patterns. Some older adults and supercentenarians retain microbiomes resembling those of younger individuals. Maintaining a youthful microbiome is associated with reduced age-related inflammation and healthier aging. Diet, environment, medications, genetics and exercise shape microbiome composition. Proper diet and regular exercise can help preserve microbiome diversity and promote longevity-associated microbial profiles.
Read at Psychology Today
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