Stress, telomeres, and psychological wellbeing: theoretical review

Researchers reviewed earlier studies about stress, psychological wellbeing, and telomeres, the protective ends of chromosomes inside cells. Telomeres often become shorter as cells divide and age. The review suggested that long-term stress may be linked with shorter telomeres, while better wellbeing may be linked with healthier telomere length. It did not study new participants, test a treatment, or prove that stress directly causes faster biological ageing.

What this means for you: This is not a reason to buy a supplement or product claiming to lengthen telomeres. Managing stress may still be worthwhile for many health reasons, but this review could not show that it will extend your life.