Researchers from Simon Fraser University in Canada examined 94 women from a rural Guatemalan village in 2000, repeating assessments 13 years later. Over this period, the women had varying numbers of children.
After 13 years, those with the most children showed longer telomeres, signaling slower biological aging. Telomeres, protective caps on chromosomes that house our DNA, naturally shorten with age and stress. Longer telomeres correlate with greater longevity and better health.
Lead researcher Professor Pablo Nepomnaschy explains: “The slower rate of telomere shortening observed in participants who have had many children may be explained by the dramatic increase in estrogen during pregnancies.” This hormone's antioxidant properties help shield cells from oxidative damage and aging.
Another factor: In this Native American community, mothers of many children receive strong social support, reducing stress and fatigue while enhancing overall well-being and energy.
Embracing community help could be a science-backed path to vitality—especially for longevity.
> Read also: Another longevity secret
