Science and Technology Daily, Beijing, November 9th (Reporter Liu Xia) According to a report on the website of New Scientist on the 7th, a new study conducted by scientists at Columbia University in the United States has found that eight healthy habits, including non-smoking, regular exercise, and cholesterol control, may delay the rate of aging and make people's physiological age younger than their actual age. The relevant paper will be presented at the American Heart Association's annual scientific conference in Philadelphia on November 12th. The American Heart Association has previously proposed the "Eight Elements of Life" to help people improve cardiovascular health. These eight elements (health habits) include: engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical exercise per week; Eat a balanced diet, eat more vegetables, nuts, and lean protein; Do not smoke; Ensure 7-9 hours of sleep every night; Maintain a healthy weight; Control cholesterol; Control blood sugar; Control blood pressure. In the latest study, Nur Makarim and colleagues from the Melman School of Public Health found that following this checklist not only promotes heart health, but also slows down the aging process in the human body. The Makarim team evaluated the compliance of over 6500 participants with this checklist. These participants reported on their adherence to dietary, exercise, smoking, and sleep recommendations, and the research team also measured their weight, cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure. The team also calculated the physiological age of participants by measuring their levels of chemicals related to metabolism, inflammation, and organ function, such as glucose and creatinine. Compared to the actual age calculated according to the calendar, physiological age can more comprehensively reflect a person's aging situation. The research team found that the participants who most adhere to the "Eight Elements of Life" have an average physiological age of 6 years younger than their actual age; The participants who did not adhere to the eight elements had an average physiological age of 4 years older than their actual age. Makarim pointed out that following the "Eight Elements of Life" can slow down the aging process of the body, which can bring many benefits, including extending disease-free years and reducing the risk of premature death. In the future, doctors can monitor a person's adherence to the "Eight Elements of Life" to measure their physiological aging rate and heart health status, thereby promoting early intervention and prevention. (New News Agency)