Twin Study: How Fasting and Regular Diets Affected Their Biological Age

A pair of identical twins embarked on different diet plans, with one incorporating fasting while the other did not, to uncover the effects on their biological age after a span of 12 weeks.

Ross and Hugo Turner are renowned for conducting experiments that illustrate the impact of various diets on their physiological health.

One notable experiment involved Hugo adopting a vegan diet, whereas Ross maintained a diet inclusive of meat, dairy, and fish.

The study revealed significant differences: Hugo experienced a dramatic reduction in cholesterol levels and weight loss, whereas Ross saw gains in both weight and muscle mass.

Additionally, the Turner twins have previously explored the effects of distinct dietary compositions, with one twin focusing on a carbohydrate-rich diet and the other on a high-fat diet over a 12-week period.

Last year, they invited readers to decide on their next dietary challenge, which resulted in Hugo and Ross testing fasting against a standard eating routine.

The Turner twins, who share their experiences and experiments on their Instagram account ‘The Turner Twins’, completed this latest test over a 12-week duration and have now disclosed the findings.

The aim of the experiment was to evaluate the effect of their differing diets on their biological age, an area of interest for individuals like Bryan Johnson.

For the test, Ross adhered to a routine of eating during a 16-hour window and fasting for the remaining eight hours while asleep. Hugo, on the other hand, fasted for 16 hours and ate during an eight-hour period.

At the start of the experiment, both twins were 36 years old chronologically. However, initial tests showed a disparity in their biological ages: Ross’ was assessed at 33, while Hugo’s was 27.

How did their biological ages shift post the 12-week dietary challenge?

Following 12 weeks of his eating schedule, Ross experienced a reduction in his biological age to 30. In the meantime, Hugo’s fasting regimen led to a decrease in his biological age to 25. Remarkable results!

To determine their biological ages, they employed GlycanAge, a test that evaluates inflammaging—chronic, low-grade, systemic inflammation that escalates with age.

“A lower biological age compared to chronological age may indicate a reduced risk of age-related diseases and a healthier aging trajectory,” explained the results of their tests.

“Conversely, a higher biological age may suggest accelerated aging and increased susceptibility to chronic conditions.”

According to GlycanAge, individuals with a biological age lower than their chronological age might enjoy optimized lifestyles, including better quality sleep and exercise routines, possess a genetic edge, and potentially benefit from medications like HRT.

In contrast, those with higher biological ages may face health challenges, suboptimal dietary habits, poor stress management, and a genetic predisposition to chronic illnesses.