Theobromine Is Associated With Slower Epigenetic Ageing
Have you ever wondered if your diet could influence how quickly you age? New research suggests that a natural compound found in cocoa might play a role in slowing down our biological clock. This compound, called theobromine, has long been associated with various health benefits and even extended lifespans in some organisms.
Scientists investigated the connection between theobromine levels in the blood and “epigenetic aging” in humans. Epigenetic aging refers to changes in our genes that accumulate over time, affecting how they function. These changes are measured using specific markers in the blood, such as DNA methylation patterns and the length of telomeres, which are protective caps on our chromosomes. These markers provide a more accurate picture of our biological age compared to our chronological age.
The study, conducted across two large European populations, revealed a significant association: individuals with higher circulating levels of theobromine showed reduced epigenetic age acceleration. This means their biological age appeared “younger” than expected. The findings were consistent even after accounting for other related compounds found in cocoa and coffee, suggesting that the effect is specific to theobromine. This research highlights how everyday dietary components could potentially influence the aging process at a fundamental molecular level, supporting the idea that certain plant-based compounds may contribute to long-term health.
Source: link to paper