Chronological refers to the number of birthdays you have had and therefore this number cannot be changed. However, biological looks at many factors of the ageing process including genetics, lifestyle and environment. This can be improved upon or even reversed through healthy lifestyle changes including stress management, sleep, nutrition and fitness. Every person ages differently.
So take the quiz, however don’t take it too seriously, though it may just highlight where in your life you could make some healthier choices.
WEIGHT
I am overweight and could ideally loose a stone or over 6kgs
+ 2 years
I am a little overweight and could ideally loose half a stone or 3.5kgs
+ 1 year
I am in the correct weight range for my height
– 2 years
I am underweight
+ 1 year
ACTIVITY
I do at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise( getting out of breath) including 2 sessions of strength/resistance training weekly
– 2 years
Not much formal exercise, I try to do some walking and a little gentle exercise
No change
I do little exercise
+ 2 years
DIET
Generally balanced with plenty of vegetables and fruits, good protein sources, little sugar
– 2 years
Diet not good, ultra processed, convenience foods and sweet tooth
+ 2 years
Mainly a balanced diet but junk food when stressed and busy
+ 1 year
SEDENTARY
I sit for most of the day
+ 2 years
I sit most of the day but get up hourly to move around
No change
I am active and don’t sit for long periods
– 2 years
SMOKING
Never
– 2 years
Used to
No change
Yes, am a smoker
+ 2 years
SLEEP
7 to 9 hours a night and wake up feeling refreshed
– 2 years
Generally disrupted with less than 6 hours a night
+ 2 years
STRESS
Are you constantly under stress
Yes, but find it manageable
No change
No, but experience short term stress from time to time
– 1 year
Yes, feeling overwhelmed and affects my mood
+ 2 years
ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION
Less than 14 units weekly NHS recommendation. 1 unit = 1 small glass of wine
A few alcohol free days
– 1 year
More than 14 units of alcohol weekly
+ 2 years
THE RESULTS
Once you total up the numbers it will reveal your biological age. Ideally this will be lower than your chronological age. If not then it is possible to lower this number by changing some lifestyle choices to healthier ones and rewinding the body clock.
