Healthy cells have a soft, permeable cell membrane, allowing functioning nutrients to get inside and waste products to get out. This process of homeostasis also enables cells to protect themselves from pathogens and supports the natural process of cellular turnover. Cellular flexibility and permeability are also associated with reduced biological age (and increased healthspan).

In contrast, unhealthy cells have stiff, rigid, less permeable cell membranes. Since they do not function efficiently, these cells reduce the nutrients delivered to the cellular and keep waste inside. The result is decreased cellular energy and increased vulnerability to pathogens.

Telomeres are nucleotides on the ends of chromosomes. Think of them as the protective plastic tabs on the end of shoelaces that prevent them from unraveling.

Our DNA provides the code for how quickly healthy cells age and die. Our telomeres protect this DNA from damage. Unfortunately, the shorter they become due to epigenetic factors, the higher our biological age (aka decreased healthspan) and the more vulnerable we become to aging aggressively. Telomere lengthening and protection are well-researched subjects specific to increasing healthspan.