When Should You Have Your First Telomere Test?

Telomeres are important markers of aging and health. They get shorter and more frayed as you age, and shorter telomeres are associated with problems like metabolic disorders, cardiovascular issues, and even cancer. Dr. Avi Ishaaya provides helpful information about telomeres and the appropriate time to get your first test in Los Angeles, CA. Call Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers to learn about the benefits of telomere testing and how it can improve your health and wellness.

Why are telomeres important?

Factors like eating nutrient-deficient foods, weight gain, living a sedentary lifestyle, and unmanaged stress cause telomeres to shorten or fray. Shortened telomeres regenerate less healthy cells or produce mutations, like cancer.

The shortening of telomeres is one way to measure the aging process at the cellular level and is a predictor of mortality. In contrast, long, healthy telomeres are associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases and a longer lifespan.

A telomere test measures the length of your telomeres and provides valuable insights into your overall health and wellness. Dr. Avi Ishaaya is a leading expert in telomere testing. Our team can help you understand your results and take steps to protect your telomeres.

What happens during a telomere test?

A telomere test involves a simple blood draw or cheek swab at Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers in Los Angeles, CA. There is no need to fast beforehand, and the test can be administered on the same day as your consultation. A laboratory will analyze your sample and send the results to Dr. Ishaaya after several weeks. We then schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss our next steps.

When should my first test occur?

The appropriate time to get your first telomere test is determined by Dr. Ishaaya based on your age, history of chronic disease, and family history. We recommend that most people get a telomere test at least once a year. However, some people may benefit from more frequent testing based on their individual risk factors.

What treatment recommendations will you make?

It depends on the results of your telomere test. If your telomeres are healthy, Dr. Ishaaya may recommend ways to preserve them. If your telomeres are shortened or frayed, we develop a treatment plan to improve them. This may involve a regimen of supplements, medications, and lifestyle changes. We also closely monitor your telomeres over time to look for signs of improvement.

Recommended lifestyle changes may include:

Lose weight: Excess weight or obesity does lead to telomere shortening. A diet and exercise plan can help you reach and maintain a lean weight.
Quit smoking: Cigarette smoke contains toxins that damage cells and shorten telomeres. Quitting smoking can improve your health quickly.
Get enough rest each night: Sleep is important for cellular repair and regeneration. Most people need eight hours of sleep per night.
Manage stress: Stress causes inflammation and raises levels of the hormone cortisol, which leads to telomere shortening. Find ways to manage stress, like yoga and meditation.
Manage your general health and wellness: Telomere length is also affected by certain chronic diseases. Work with a doctor to manage these conditions and keep them under control.
Follow our advice: Dr. Ishaaya and our team are here to help you protect your telomeres. Following our recommendations can help you live a healthier, longer life.

Enhance your health and wellness

Telomere testing is an invaluable tool for understanding your health and the natural aging process. Dr. Avi Ishaaya is a trusted leader in telomere testing and can help you understand your results. Learn more about telomeres and make an appointment by calling Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers for an appointment in Los Angeles, CA.