Why do some people remain fit and healthy in their later years while others become increasingly frail?  Researchers from Kings College London have been following thousands of twins for 30 years in an effort to understand how each of us ages differently. And some of their findings will surprise you!In today’s episode, Jonathan speaks to Claire Steves to better understand what all this means, shedding light on how aging works and what we can do about it:Dr. Claire Steves is a senior lecturer at King's College London, a medical doctor, and the clinical director at TwinsUKWe have a small favor to ask. ZOE's working on a number of new initiatives, and we’d love your input. If you could take a few moments to fill out this survey, we would appreciate it. - Take the survey.If you want to uncover the right foods for your body, head to joinZOE.com/podcast and get 10% off your personalized nutrition program.Timecodes:00:00 - Introduction00:10 - Topic introduction01:39 - Quickfire questions03:16 - Claire’s work during the pandemic05:17 - What happens in our bodies when we age?08:26 - Genes and aging09:33 - What factors affect aging?11:39 - Effects of physical activity12:23 - Microbiome effects on aging13:33 - Claire’s research19:11 - What evidence is there that we can slow the effects of aging?21:44 - What are some modifiable factors that can help reduce aging effects?23:06 - Alzheimer's and dementia28:21 - Stimulating your brain29:45 - The importance of social interaction for the brain31:02 - Diet. health and aging35:27 - Menopause37:30 - Actionable advice about maximizing health while aging39:14 - The biggest myth about aging42:20 - Summary43:41 - Goodbyes43:50 - OutroEpisode transcripts are available hereFind Claire’s publications hereThe UK’s largest adult twin registry - Twins UKFollow ZOE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zoe/Have an idea for a podcast? Contact Fascinate Productions to bring it to life.