Researchers put human lifespan limit at 120 years

The theoretical limit of human lifespan is about 120 years, while many biohacking methods promoted for healthy ageing remain scientifically unproven, ORF reported.

Biotechnologist and health lecturer Katharina Wenkoff from Bad Ischl begins each morning with 20 minutes of near-infrared light. She says the light signals to the body, much like a sunrise, that the day is beginning. Red and infrared light can also penetrate deeper into the skin and support the energy production of cells, she says.

Wenkoff also continuously monitors health data including sleep quality, breathing rate and skin temperature with a special ring. Her aim is to understand her body better and remain healthy for as long as possible.

The term biohacking now covers numerous methods intended to slow ageing processes and prevent illness. They include cold chambers, vitamin infusions, gut sensors and dietary supplements. The trend is particularly popular on social media.

Wenkoff also monitors her blood values and deliberately supplements certain substances. These include vitamin D and the omega 3 index. She says the goal is to keep the values within an optimal range.

Research sees potential and limits

The market surrounding longevity is growing rapidly, but many of the claimed effects have not been scientifically confirmed. Markus Mandl, a pathophysiologist and ageing researcher at Johannes Kepler University in Linz, sees some useful approaches but urges caution.

Research focuses on mitochondria, known as the powerhouses of the cell. According to Mandl, they lose function over the course of a person’s life and may influence ageing processes. Many biohacking methods therefore aim to stimulate cell regeneration.

Mandl distinguishes clearly between lifespan and health span. The main aim of research is to keep people healthy for as long as possible. Scientific literature puts the theoretical limit of human life at about 120 years, he said.

Many trends are still insufficiently researched, Mandl said. Long term studies are often lacking, making it difficult to assess which methods are genuinely effective and which mainly sell hope.

Everyday habits more important than costly methods

Mandl and Wenkoff personally rely above all on conventional measures: a healthy diet, exercise and sufficient sleep. Regularity is also important. Light, sleep patterns and regular meals can support the body’s regeneration, they say.

Whether treatments such as infrared light, cold chambers and supplements provide lasting benefits will only become clear over many years. The desire for a long and healthy life remains a rapidly expanding market.