Davinia Taylor, former star of Channel 4's "Hollyoaks," sparked lively discussions among fans of "This Morning" as she proclaimed her biological age to be merely 20, despite being 47. Appearing on the daytime show with Dr. Hussain, Taylor shared insights into biohacking, a trending wellness approach that aims to enhance health and potentially reverse signs of ageing.
She credits her youthful inflammatory markers to a blood test conducted by a company named Glyen Age, which assesses factors linked to chronic diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer's, diabetes, and heart disease. According to Taylor, maintaining low inflammation is crucial since inflammation is recognised as a significant contributor to many age-related ailments. In her own words, “I’m definitely not 20. Look at me. But my inflammation markers are that of someone much younger than me.”
The notion of biohacking revolves around making incremental lifestyle changes to boost energy and health. Ben Shephard, co-host of the show, expressed curiosity regarding whether lowering inflammation could indeed lead to a changed feeling of vitality. Taylor affirmed this idea, focusing not solely on aesthetics but on optimising her body's functions and developing resilience.
Critics, however, took to social media to express their concerns about Taylor's rapid-fire manner of speaking during the segment, with some viewers noting that she seemed overly energetic for a daytime programme. One viewer quipped, “Calm down dear, calm down,” reflecting a sentiment shared by others who found her overly animated.
In addition to discussing her current health regimen, Taylor opened up about her past struggles with alcoholism during her twenties and how overcoming this addiction allowed her to focus on her health in later years. “I picked up bread, carbohydrates because it makes you feel cozy... I didn’t realise that was causing inflammation as well,” she explained, highlighting a shift in her dietary habits. Today, she reserves carbohydrates for evening meals, reflecting a more balanced and mindful approach to nutrition.
The conversation led to a broader examination of biohacking, with Dr. Hussain stating that this concept varies in meaning for individuals but fundamentally involves altering behaviours and lifestyle to optimise one’s physiology. He emphasised that biohacking isn’t just about prolonging life but also about enhancing the quality of life – a concept that aligns well with the growing focus on healthy aging in today’s society.
With the surge in interest around biohacking, various strategies have surged in popularity, including monitoring biomarkers and implementing dietary modifications to reduce inflammation. For instance, supplementation with compounds such as curcumin, NMN, and resveratrol have been associated with reduced inflammation and improvements in metabolic health. These interventions appeal to an audience eager to navigate the complexities of ageing, promising a path to a healthier future.
Taylor's television appearance comes at a moment when the concept of 'inflammaging'—the chronic, low-grade inflammation associated with ageing—has captured significant attention. Research suggests that addressing such inflammation could be vital for reducing risks associated with age-related diseases. This understanding further underscores the importance of lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and diet, that can mitigate inflammation and promote longevity.
While biohacking might seem like a new trend, its principles resonate with age-old wisdom surrounding health and wellness. It serves as a reminder that our choices and behaviours—what we eat, how we care for our bodies, and how we perceive ageing—can meaningfully impact not just how long we live, but also how well we live those years.
As audiences continue to engage with wellness topics and public figures like Davinia Taylor share their stories, conversations about health, resilience, and the very nature of ageing will undoubtedly persist, encouraging a society that seeks not just to survive, but to thrive.
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Source: Noah Wire Services