When you maintain strong relationships, even with with pets, you’ll likely live longer
Research confirms: The quality of your relationships is directly correlated with your overall health and longevity. Make sure to biohack your relationships by putting in extra effort to cultivate your most important social connections.
Human beings are inherently social creatures, and having close relationships and friendships is essential for our overall health, and longevity.1 We’ve evolved to rely on others for safety, survival, support, and companionship. A large meta-analysis from 2010 looking at over 300,000 people found that those with the strongest social relationships were half as likely to die over an average of 8 years.2 This is nearly the same reduction in the risk of dying that you get from quitting smoking.
In fact, social isolation is as strong of a risk factor for dying as obesity and lack of exercise.3 Among people with heart disease, those with the least social support had a nearly 2.5 times increased risk of death.4 These results make it clear that social connection is definitely key for longevity. However, it’s important to note that it’s not the size of your social group that counts, but rather it’s the number of close friends you can rely on and confide in that provides the most benefits.1
Deeply connecting with others affects our health in many different ways. Close social relationships improve immune function and reduce inflammation, which plays a key role in healthy aging.5 Inversely, social isolation may contribute to higher blood pressure and heart disease, increase the risk of cancer, and slow wound healing.6 Strong social support is linked to better mental health and better stress resilience.7 To truly benefit from your relationships, make sure they are positive and fulfilling. Negative relationships tend to do more harm than good, with unhappy marriages being associated with higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol and an increased risk of disease and death.8
Biohackers can reap incredible longevity dividends by devoting time and energy to strengthening their social relationships and avoiding negative, draining relationships.
“There is a fundamental biological imperative that propels you and every organism on this planet to be in a community, to be in relationship with other organisms.”
This book is a vital resource for parents of teens and young adults facing social challenges. It offers practical guidance, step-by-step instructions, and role-playing exercises to help improve social skills, expand social opportunities, and handle peer rejection. With expert advice and clear rules, parents can assist their children, including those with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or bipolar disorder, in developing essential conversational and social etiquette skills. Homework assignments ensure practical application in various life situations, from school to work. Bonus content features role-plays illustrating correct and incorrect social interactions.
Bloom brings people together through diverse in-person and online events. You can share your pronouns and interests to connect with like-minded individuals. Engage in discussion groups and stay connected with new acquaintances. The app supports multiple daily profiles for various connections, whether friends or lovers, both online and at events.
Bumble For Friends is Bumble’s friendship-focused app, perfect for creating meaningful connections in your local community. Whether you’re new to an area or just want to expand your circle, this app prioritizes kindness and safety. It encourages genuine connections with profile prompts and lifestyle badges while ensuring trust and safety.
Peanut is the app uniting women across life stages. With 3M+ members, it connects, advises, and shares experiences on fertility, pregnancy, motherhood, and menopause. Features include meeting like-minded women, chat and video calls, interest groups, advice-seeking, and expert-led audio discussions. It’s your hub for all things womanhood.
Nextdoor connects neighbors in the U.S. and worldwide, facilitating local interactions, recommendations, buying and selling, and community engagement. Whether you’re new or a long-time resident, Nextdoor is your hub for local connections and information.
Twitch is your go-to platform for diverse live content, including gaming, music, sports, and more. Join millions of users, support your favorite streamers, and even start your own channel. With a sleek dark mode, Twitch offers a vibrant community for entertainment and interaction.
Wink is a convenient platform for making new friends and connections in your area. Browse nearby profiles, match with people who share your interests, and customize your profile to express yourself. The chat feature enables secure and rapid communication with your new connections.
Life Extension offers more than just nutritional supplements; they are dedicated partners in your health journey. With a team of expert naturopaths, nutritionists, and nurses available every day, including holidays, you can connect with these Wellness Specialists to get free advice and answers to your health-related questions. Instead of guessing, consult with these trusted experts who are committed to helping you achieve optimal well-being.
1. Richard P. Ebstein, et al. Genetics of Human Social Behavior, Neuron, 2010;65(6):831–44, doi: 10.1016/j.neuron.2010.02.020, PMID: 20346758: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20346758/.
2. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, Timothy B. Smith, J. Bradley Layton, Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review, PLoS Medicine, 2010;7(7): e1000316., doi: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316 2010, PMCID: PMC2910600; PMID: 20668659: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2910600/.
3. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, et al., Loneliness and Social Isolation as Risk Factors for Mortality, Perspectives on Psychological Science, 2015;10(2):227–37, doi: 10.1177/1745691614568352, PMID: 25910392: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25910392/.
4. Beverly H. Brummett, et al., Characteristics of Socially Isolated Patients With Coronary Artery Disease Who Are at Elevated Risk for Mortality, Psychosomatic Medicine, 2001;63(2):267–72, doi: 10.1097/00006842-200103000-00010, PMID: 11292274: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11292274/.
5. Janice K. Kiecolt-Glaser, et al., Emotions, Morbidity, and Mortality: New Perspectives from Psychoneuroimmunology, Annual Review of Psychology, 2002;53(1):83–107, doi: 10.1146/annurev.psych.53.100901.135217, PMID: 11752480: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11752480/.
6. John T Cacioppo, Louise C Hawkley, Social isolation and health, with an emphasis on underlying mechanisms, Perspectives in Biology and Medicine, 2003;46(3):S39-52, PMID: 14563073: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14563073/.
7. Harandi Tayebeh Fasihi, Maryam Mohammad Taghinasab, Tayebeh Dehghan Nayeri, The correlation of social support with mental health: A meta-analysis, Electronic Physician, 2017;9(9):5212–22, doi: 10.19082/5212, PMCID: PMC5633215; PMID: 29038699: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5633215/.
8. Theodore F Robles, Janice K Kiecolt-Glaser, The physiology of marriage: pathways to health, Physiology & Behavior 2003;79(3):409–16, doi: 10.1016/s0031-9384(03)00160-4, PMID: 12954435: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12954435/.
Some biohackers are cat people, enjoying the oxytocin from purring cuddles. Others prefer dogs, which promote physical activity. Whichever pet you choose, the companionship and emotional support they provide will benefit your health and wellness.
Everyone knows pets can bring joy and companionship to their owners. As it turns out, our furry friends may offer more than just companionship. Indeed, they may actually help us live longer. A meta-analysis found that having a dog as a pet was linked to a nearly 25% reduced risk of death over a 10-year period.1 In a similar vein, people who own cats were nearly 40% less likely to experience heart attacks over a 20-year period.2
One of the main benefits of owning a pet is that it can help reduce stress levels. Pets are known to have a calming effect on their owners, helping reduce anxiety and depression.3 Owning a pet can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which are both risk factors for heart disease. Pet owners also tend to have lower levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, which can lead to better overall health and reduce the risk of developing age-related diseases.3,5
Pets can also promote physical activity, promoting the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle. Dog owners, for example, are more likely to go for walks and engage in other forms of physical activity than non-dog owners.6 As many studies have demonstrated, regular exercise can help improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and even reduce the risk of certain cancers.7
One of the most important ways pets can help with longevity is by providing social connection through their companionship and emotional support. This is especially true for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities who have limited social interaction.8
“We sometimes take for granted just how much support our pets — and particularly our dogs — offer us and just how much their companionship can bring us joy.”
Adopt a Pet is a platform that partners with thousands of shelters and adoption agencies to help homeless pets find loving homes, offering this service for free. As part of the Kinship company, they provide valuable resources and information for new pet parents, including articles, product reviews, and access to veterinary and grooming services through GoodFriend. Their mission is to connect pets with the right owners and support adopters on their pet parenting journey.
The ASPCA is a renowned North American humane society with a mission to prevent cruelty to animals across the US. Headquartered in NYC, the ASPCA, as a privately funded not-for-profit organization, enjoys the support of over 2 million backers throughout the nation. Its core belief in the kind and respectful treatment of animals and their legal protection has established it as a leading national animal welfare organization with a strong local presence.
Petfinder is a crucial online resource that connects potential pet owners with animals in need, alongside providing a directory of over 11,000 animal shelters and adoption organizations across North America. Their mission leverages internet technology to raise awareness about adoptable pets, improve adoption programs to eliminate euthanasia for adoptable animals, and elevate pets to the status of cherished family members.
Consider these eight health benefits of pet ownership: increased physical activity, reduced stress levels, lower blood pressure, a lower risk of heart attacks (especially for cat owners), alleviation of depression, allergy prevention, low blood sugar detection (especially for those with diabetes), and a reduced risk of stroke (particularly for cat owners). While pets require care and attention, the potential for a longer, healthier life makes it all worthwhile. Additionally, pets can provide companionship and emotional support, helping individuals feel less isolated and more connected to society. The unconditional love and joy they bring into our lives can have a profound impact on our overall well-being.
Petco provides virtual training classes led by certified dog trainers via Zoom, catering to various experience levels. They offer puppy classes focusing on basic behaviors and puppy-specific issues, as well as adult classes that cover different experience levels and behaviors. Additionally, Petco offers private lessons, available in-store and select home locations, for personalized training solutions targeting specific behavioral issues.
Join the Top Dog Academy for comprehensive dog training resources. Gain instant access to a vast library of online courses, offering effective and enjoyable training methods. With a single affordable monthly fee, you’ll unlock 100s of hours of dog training videos, 13 hours of dog training podcasts, recorded seminars, workshops, handouts, worksheets, and an exclusive Facebook group. Additionally, enjoy live webinars and Q+A sessions with the Dunbars for real-time expert advice on dog behavior and training. It’s the ultimate dog training solution.
Dr. Ian Dunbar, the driving force behind SIRIUS®, initiated the very first puppy class in the San Francisco Bay Area more than 30 years ago, pioneering the concept of puppy training. These innovative SIRIUS Puppy Training Classes revolutionized pet dog training and laid the groundwork for the entire field’s development. SIRIUS® continues to be at the forefront of canine education, providing invaluable insights and expertise to enhance the bond between pet owners and their dogs.
All Day Dog Adventures now offers Virtual Online Dog Training Classes with flexible scheduling, family involvement, and personalized feedback. These classes provide access to certified trainers, use force-free methods, and offer an interactive online community. Suitable for all dogs, they prioritize convenience and effectiveness. Join Dog Adventures’ Virtual Online Dog Training Classes to enhance your dog’s skills and strengthen the bond between you and your furry companion, all from the comfort of your home.
Jackson Galaxy, star of “My Cat from Hell,” shares his extensive knowledge in this cat care guide. By delving into feline behavior and understanding their instincts, he helps cat owners solve behavioral problems and boost their cats’ confidence, known as “Cat Mojo.” Covering all aspects of cat care, from kitten socialization to senior cat wellness, this comprehensive guide addresses cats’ physical and emotional needs, offering valuable insights for a harmonious human-feline relationship.
In the updated second edition of “Horsekeeping on a Small Acreage,” Cherry Hill offers comprehensive guidance for responsible horse management. Drawing on her extensive experience and insights from experts, Hill emphasizes the importance of understanding horse behavior and needs. She provides practical advice for choosing the right management approach, planning facilities, and implementing efficient routines to ensure the well-being of horses.
Zak George, the renowned dog trainer and YouTube sensation, offers a revolutionary approach to raising and training dogs in his comprehensive guide. Drawing from his extensive experience with thousands of dogs, George covers a wide range of topics, from selecting the right pup and housetraining to addressing behavioral issues like leash pulling and aggression. He also provides insights into health care and shares fun tricks and activities to enjoy with your canine companion. With corresponding videos available on Zak’s YouTube channel, this book enhances the bond between you and your dog, making training enjoyable and rewarding.
The Monks of New Skete, renowned authorities on dog training and behavior, present an updated edition of their classic bestseller, “The Art of Raising a Puppy.” Drawing on their extensive experience as German shepherd breeders and dog trainers, the Monks provide essential guidance for dog owners. This new edition includes updated chapters covering topics such as play, crating, adopting dogs from shelters, urban dog raising, and the latest advancements in canine health and behavior theory. With new photographs throughout, this book continues to be an invaluable resource for all dog enthusiasts.
1. Caroline K. Kramer, Sadia Mehmood, Renée S. Suen, Dog Ownership and Survival, Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, 2019;12(10), doi: 10.1161/circoutcomes.119.005554, PMID: 31592726: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31592726/.
2. Adnan I Qureshi, et al., Cat ownership and the Risk of Fatal Cardiovascular Diseases Results from the Second National Health and Nutrition Examination Study Mortality Follow-up Study, Journal of Vascular and Interventional Neurology, 2009;2(1):132-135, PMCID: PMC3317329; PMID: 22518240: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3317329/.
3. Ana Gabriela Jimenez, et al., Can dogs serve as stress mediators to decrease salivary cortisol levels in a population of liberal arts college undergraduate students?, Explore, 2023;19(3):283–9, doi: 10.1016/j.explore.2022.08.007, PMID: 35989236: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35989236/.
4. Kanish Arhant-Sudhir, Rish Arhant-Sudhir, Krishnankutty Sudhir, Pet ownership and cardiovascular risk reduction: Supporting evidence, conflicting data and underlying mechanisms, Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology, 2011;38(11):734–8, doi: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2011.05583.x, PMID: 21824172: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21824172/.
5. R M M Schoorlemmer, et al., Relationships between cortisol level, mortality and chronic diseases in older persons, Clinical Endocrinology, 2009;71(6):779–86, doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2009.03552.x, PMID: 19226268: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19226268/.
6. Westgarth Carri, et al., Dog owners are more likely to meet physical activity guidelines than people without a dog: An investigation of the association between dog ownership and physical activity levels in a UK community, Scientific Reports, 2019;9(1), doi: 10.1038/s41598-019-41254-6, PMID: 31000795; PMCID: PMC6473089: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31000795/.
7. Matthew A. Nystoriak, Aruni Bhatnagar, Cardiovascular Effects and Benefits of Exercise, Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 2018;5, doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2018.00135, PMCID: PMC6172294; PMID: 30324108: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6172294/.
8. Carmen Fiuza-Luces, et al., Exercise Benefits Meet Cancer Immunosurveillance: Implications for Immunotherapy, Trends in Cancer, 2021;7(2):91–3, doi: 10.1016/j.trecan.2020.12.003, PMID: 33358110: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33358110/.
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Stay updated on the latest advancements in longevity science for a longer, healthier lifespan.
Broaden your understanding of longevity science by tracking the latest findings from these accomplished specialists.
Anthony DiClementi is an entrepreneur, natural health expert, author, and biohacker specializing in nutritional science, energy production, and longevity. With years of experience in functional medicine and human optimization, he is a world-class wellness coach who believes that biohacking is key to creating lasting change in physical and mental performance.
Anthony is the CEO of Biohacking Secrets, a company that helps professionals improve their quality of life through biohacking energy using the latest research and products. He offers coaching and consulting services, and has worked with high-profile clients, including celebrities, professional athletes, and entrepreneurs.
He has spoken at Biohacker Summits and has been featured in media outlets like The Entrepreneur, as well as many podcasts where he shares his knowledge on nutrition, energy, biohacking tools, and achieving peak performance. Anthony connects with a large audience through his podcast “The Biohacking Secrets Show,” as well as social media platforms like Youtube and Instagram.
Dr. Rhonda Patrick is a biochemist, scientist, and researcher known for her expertise in metabolism, nutrition, DNA damage, and aging. With a strong belief in a proactive and preventive approach to health, her research is centered on micronutrients, intracellular signaling, and their impact on an individual’s health. Her studies have been published in journals like Nature Cell Biology, Molecular Cell Biology, and FASEB Journal.
Having served as a research assistant at the Salk Institute for Biological Sciences, she is currently an associate scientist at the Fatty Acid Research Institute. Dr. Patrick created FoundMyFitness LLC to disseminate scientific knowledge in an easily understandable format, providing valuable insights on health, longevity, and wellness. She is a speaker at health summits and conferences where she shares biohacking tips to optimize health and productivity. Alongside hosting her podcast, “Found my Fitness,” she has an active social media presence on Youtube and Instagram and has guested in many other podcasts.
Unveiling the power of social and community skills for a longer and happier life.
Healthy relationships provide emotional support, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being. Research shows that having strong social connections can improve longevity and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Cultivating meaningful relationships and surrounding oneself with a supportive community can positively impact both mental and physical health.
Biohacker’s recognize the significance of social connections for longevity. He emphasizes the value of building strong relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and surrounding oneself with positive influences. Maintaining a supportive network can contribute to overall well-being and promote a longer and healthier life.
Caring for pets, such as dogs or cats, can bring numerous health benefits. Studies show that pet owners tend to have lower blood pressure, reduced stress levels, and improved cardiovascular health. The companionship and unconditional love provided by pets can positively influence mental health and contribute to longevity.
Yes, improving communication and interpersonal skills is an essential aspect of biohacking longevity with social skills. Effective communication fosters stronger connections, promotes understanding, and reduces conflict. Enhancing these skills can positively impact relationships, overall well-being, and contribute to a longer and happier life.
Social support is vital for biohacking longevity. Having a support system in place, whether through friends, family, or community, provides emotional support, helps manage stress, and reduces the risk of mental health issues. Building and nurturing social support networks is crucial for overall well-being and longevity.
Active listening and empathy are crucial components of effective social interaction. By practicing active listening, individuals can foster deeper connections, understand others’ perspectives, and enhance communication. Empathy allows for meaningful emotional connections, supports relationship building, and contributes to overall well-being and longevity.
Biohacking strategies to improve social skills for longevity include attending social events or group activities, seeking personal growth opportunities, joining communities aligned with personal interests, and practicing effective communication techniques. These strategies help cultivate social connections and enhance overall well-being and longevity.
Yes, volunteering and contributing to the community can be powerful biohacking strategies for longevity. Engaging in acts of kindness and service can foster a sense of purpose, increase social connections, and improve overall well-being. By giving back to others, individuals can experience a deeper sense of fulfillment and potentially extend their lifespan.
Social isolation and loneliness have been linked to various negative health outcomes, including increased mortality rates and higher risk of chronic diseases. Biohacking longevity requires prioritizing social connections and actively avoiding social isolation. Nurturing meaningful relationships and maintaining an active social life are key components for overall well-being and longevity.
Emotional intelligence, including self-awareness, empathy, and emotional regulation, plays a significant role in biohacking longevity through social skills. Developing emotional intelligence enhances communication, fosters deeper connections, and contributes to healthier relationships. By cultivating emotional intelligence, individuals can nurture their social skills and support overall well-being and longevity.
Biohack your longevity and happiness by prioritizing social support through nurturing relationships and the companionship of pets.
Discover podcasts, YouTube channels, websites, apps, and more to enhance your knowledge and empower your biohacking journey.
“The Science of Happiness” is a free eight-week online course offered by the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley.
The course explores the science of positive psychology and delves into the factors that contribute to a happy and meaningful life. It emphasizes the importance of strong social connections and contributing to the greater good for lasting happiness. Students will learn research-backed strategies and engage in activities that promote social and emotional well-being.
The course features renowned experts in the field, covers topics like empathy and mindfulness, and offers continuing education units for health professionals. It is self-paced and accessible on the edX platform.
The Pet Effect Campaign, led by the Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI), aims to promote awareness and understanding of the positive impact that pets have on human health.
It emphasizes the extensive scientific evidence that supports the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of pet ownership. The campaign advocates for policies and practices that recognize the significance of the human-animal bond in healthcare, education, and various social settings.
Through research, education, and outreach efforts, The Pet Effect Campaign seeks to encourage the integration of pets into people’s lives to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
