First published 2017
Nobel Prize winner Elizabeth Blackburn made a discovery that changed how we understand aging. She found telomeres, protective caps on our DNA, and telomerase, the enzyme that maintains them. Working with health psychologist Elissa Epel, Blackburn uncovered how these biological markers create a real connection between mind and body. The research shows why some people at 60 look and feel decades younger while others age rapidly. Blackburn and Epel identify specific actions readers can take to strengthen their telomeres and extend both lifespan and healthspan. The book explains how sleep patterns, physical activity, and nutrition directly impact telomere health. It reveals how chronic stress damages these cellular protectors and how stress during pregnancy affects children's telomeres from birth. The authors provide practical guidance on telomere-friendly foods and demonstrate how maintaining a youthful mindset supports cellular health.
Genres: science, self-help, non-fiction, health, biology, academic
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: informative, research-based
544 pages · Hardcover · Grand Central Publishing