A funny thing about ageing
A comedian is juggling science and silliness to get to the bottom of why we can feel younger or older than our biological age.
The concept of age, both in terms of how we perceive ourselves and how others perceive us, can be a sensitive topic.
Some of us rail against the passage of time, trying anything we can to appear physically young, while others just go with the flow.
In recent years, scientific research has delved deeper into distinguishing between chronological age, which is the actual number of years we have lived, and biological age, which reflects the physiological state of our bodies.
This distinction is crucial, as it highlights that two people of the same chronological age can have vastly different health profiles and risks for age-related diseases.
Enter London-based Canadian comedian and television personality Katherine Ryan.
Best known in Australia for her guest appearances on panel games such as Would I Lie to You? and 8 Out of 10 Cats Does Countdown, Ryan is hosting a new podcast titled What Age Am I Again? alongside Dr Nichola Conlon, a specialist in longevity and cellular ageing.
Ryan says, “In a beauty-obsessed society that rewards aesthetic youth, what about the far more impactful biological vitality?
“As a pretty clean-living autoimmune disease sufferer with loads of inflammation, I’m excited to be investigating cutting-edge technology that tests glycolic age with a mix of my celebrity friends.
“Are they biologically older or younger than they think they are? What can we all be doing differently to extend our lives? Who will be willing to give me their actual blood for a podcast?”
She’s not joking about the blood thing. The podcast’s producers will be testing blood samples from Ryan’s guests, including acting great Dame Sheila Hancock, singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor, and politics podcaster and former spin doctor Alastair Campbell.
So, what does science have to say about the matters Ryan and her friends will be exploring?
Chronological age is straightforward; it’s the count of years since birth. Biological age, however, assesses how well or poorly our bodies are functioning relative to our chronological age.
Factors influencing biological age include genetics, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and existing health conditions.
For instance, a person who maintains a balanced diet, engages in regular physical activity, and manages stress effectively may have a biological age younger than their chronological age. Conversely, poor lifestyle choices can accelerate biological ageing.
Recent studies strongly suggest biological age is a more accurate predictor of health outcomes than chronological age.
Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology indicates that biological ageing is associated with declines in tissue and organ function, which are critical factors in overall health and longevity.
Another study concluded that people with a higher biological age compared to their chronological age face increased risks of early-onset cancers.
Recommendations for reducing our biological age include:
Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and essential nutrients
Regular exercise to enhance cardiovascular health, maintain muscle mass, and improve metabolic functions
Using techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and adequate sleep to mitigate the adverse effects of chronic stress.
Limiting alcohol intake and abstaining from smoking.
And, if you subscribe to the theory that laughter is the best medicine, perhaps listening to amusing podcasts will also help.
What’s My Age Again? was launched on 22 April 2025 and is available on most podcast platforms.
Related reading: Bauer Media, The Lancet, Wikipedia, JACC, NY Post, Very Well Health
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional about any health concerns or before making any changes to your medication, diet, or exercise routine.
Image credit: See Li from London, UK - Made In Dagenham press night at Adelphi Theatre Strand, London, CC BY 2.0 https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=38162279
