#Healthyaging

A simple and quick exercise known as the sit-to-stand test (STS) has emerged as a powerful indicator of aging and health, offering insights into the body’s strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. The test, which involves standing up from a seated position repeatedly in a span of 30 seconds, might seem trivial, but its implications are profound for medical assessment, particularly among the elderly.

The sit-to-stand test is widely used in primary healthcare settings to evaluate health functioning. Jugdeep Dhesi, a consultant geriatrician at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust and professor of geriatric medicine at Kings College London, emphasizes its significance: “It tells us about their strength, their balance, and their flexibility,” she states. Research demonstrates a connection between lower scores in the test and risks of falls, cardiovascular issues, and even higher mortality.

A quick exercise, the sit-to-stand test (STS), is shaping how clinicians assess aging, strength, balance, and heart health. In 30 seconds, individuals repeatedly rise from a chair, revealing vital clues about overall health. What seems simple can yield profound insights for medical evaluation, especially for older adults.

In primary care, the STS test helps gauge daily functioning. A senior geriatrician explains that the test reflects strength, balance, and flexibility. Research links lower STS scores with higher risks of falls, cardiovascular issues, and even increased mortality, underscoring its value in routine checkups.

A growing body of research highlights pentadecanoic acid (C15:0) as a potential contributor to healthier, longer lives. As anti-aging science gains traction globally, studies suggest C15:0 may boost cellular resilience and support healthy aging, with meaningful implications for Thailand’s aging population.

C15:0 is a saturated odd-chain fatty acid found in dairy fat and the meat of ruminant animals. While not widely known, accumulating evidence points to possible health benefits that could help reduce age-related risks. Early observations came from marine mammal studies, where higher C15:0 levels were linked to improvements in insulin, glucose, and cholesterol, prompting researchers to explore potential benefits for humans.

A sweeping, three-decade study suggests plant-forward diets may extend the years lived free of major chronic diseases. Over 105,000 middle-aged health professionals in the United States were followed for 30 years. The findings, published in a leading medical journal, indicate that diets rich in plant-based foods and low in ultra-processed items were associated with a higher likelihood of reaching age 70 without chronic illness. Only about 9 in 100 participants achieved this milestone, highlighting the potential impact of midlife food choices.

A large, long-term study suggests that what people eat may influence how healthily they age. Researchers tracked more than 100,000 participants for three decades and found that only about 9% reached old age free of major diseases or impairments. The common thread among this small group was a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

For Thailand, where lifestyle-related diseases are rising, these findings are especially relevant. The study reinforces the value of plant-forward eating patterns and nutrient-dense foods, which have been linked to lower risks of heart disease and diabetes—conditions that are increasingly seen in Thai communities during transitions in diet and lifestyle.

A recent study in Nature Medicine shows diet matters more for aging healthfully than many people realize. The research followed over 105,000 participants for three decades, examining how eating patterns influence cognitive, physical, and mental well-being in later life. The take-away: sticking to certain dietary patterns can significantly increase the chances of aging with fewer chronic diseases.

For Thailand, the findings are particularly relevant. The country is aging quickly, with forecasts suggesting nearly 30% of the population will be 60 or older by 2040. Understanding which foods support healthy aging can inform national dietary guidelines, policy decisions, and everyday choices, contributing to a resilient health system.