Turning Back the (Biological) Clock

Good morning.

Lately, it’s felt like my cup is constantly overflowing with joy. First came the Knicks, and I didn’t think anything could top the collective effervescence that followed (please, never let it end). Then, the US Men’s National Soccer Team (USMNT) advanced to the knockout stage in the FIFA World Cup thanks, in part, to one mom’s incredible decision 24 years ago; Dutch fans took over Houston with their famous pre-game traditions (they even shipped in their own gear); and Curaçao made history in more ways than one. Last, but certainly not least, my husband and I threw a party — ahead of the longest day of the year — to celebrate our wedding. Having good things to look forward to has been such a balm, and research agrees. Now, let’s get to the headlines…

— Kylie McConville / VP, Editorial / Queens, NY

Health

Turning Back the (Biological) Clock 

What’s going on: As much as our retinol cream loves to tell us it can “reverse aging,” that’s not really possible. Or is it? Scientists launched the first human trial of a treatment designed to make aging cells act younger. Earlier this month, the first patient received ER-100, a therapy designed to switch on three specific genes. These genes can “partially reprogram” old cells, and trick your body into making cells behave like they did decades ago. Right now, it’s limited to regenerating neurons between the eye and brain, and the trial has only enrolled 18 patients across four US cities so far.

Fountain of Youth… found?: Not quite. Researchers hope to rejuvenate optic nerve cells to treat glaucoma, so it’s not exactly the Sorcerer's Stone. They will first need to show the therapy works, and that it's safe before they can begin asking bigger questions about whether the same approach could slow, stop, or reverse aspects of biological aging. And the road will be long, with plenty of trials and intense scrutiny. Time will tell if we can actually biohack our way to longer lives, but until then, “nonnamaxxing” might be our best bet. 

Related: A Doctor Dishes on How To Boost Longevity in Just Four Minutes a Day (Business Insider)

The News in 5

🗞️ While Vice President JD Vance worked with mediators to iron out a deal with Iran, President Donald Trump threatened fragile talks by negotiating on his own terms.

🗞️ Americans say this is how much money it now takes to retire comfortably. Hello inflation, we meet again.

🗞️ UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that he’ll resign as prime minister and leader of his party.

🗞️ California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in response to an ongoing warehouse fire in Los Angeles.

🗞️ A massive European heat wave is pushing France to halt concerts, train routes, and… drinking in public? And it’s only going to get worse.

Your Skeleton Crew

A Bone to Pick With Menopause 

What's going on: Celebrities and marketers alike have done wonders for menopause awareness in recent years (thank you, Drew Barrymore). But some symptoms don’t get the same attention. Case in point: the sharp nosedive bone density may take during “the change,” which can lead to fractures and, if untreated, eventually pose a legitimate risk. Now, new data offers hope — and a potential solution. Researchers found that menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) may drastically reduce the odds of low bone density. Still, it isn’t right for everyone (even if it does alleviate a range of symptoms), and past studies have shown it could have serious side effects. But the FDA’s recent removal of the “black box” warning for MHT, combined with new studies like this, show promise, especially when started early. 

The great bone boom: Bone density peaks in your 20s, coasts downhill from there, then falls off a cliff after menopause. Genetics, race, ethnicity, and other factors out of our control also play a role in osteoporosis risk, but there are things that can help. Strength training for your skeleton, for one. A DXA scan, which measures bone density, is standard for women at 65, but can happen sooner if you’re at higher risk. In the meantime, a varied diet rich in leafy greens, along with a strength-training exercise routine, can help your future self stay upright. Which is really all any of us can ask for.

Related: Could a Wearable Belt Really Help Your Bones? (NPR)

PS: Let your group chat know the real health story behind the headlines. Every Wednesday, we break down the stories and trends to give you the need-to-know in health, nutrition, and fitness in our weekly Well + Good newsletter. Sign up here.

Politics

Drain the… Pool?

What’s going on: President Donald Trump may have had the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool painted “American flag blue,” but right now, it looks pretty green. Last week, the Department of the Interior (DOI) declared the long-running algae problem eradicated, but new blooms soon proved them wrong. Some experts say Trump’s renovations have actually made the problem worse. Along with the algae, there’s flaking paint and mysterious white patches. Now, the DOI says it’s using hydrogen peroxide and “high-tech nanobubble ozone technology” (apparently a real thing) to try to make the water clear again. But Trump posted that it will “probably” be drained for even more repairs. Meanwhile, the project's price tag keeps floating higher.

OK, show me the memes: Protesters have marched around the pool with signs reading “Team Algae” or chanting “Algae’s smarter than MAGA.” The reflecting pool has become Trump’s pet project (who could forget those AI-generated images posted on Truth Social?) Now his opponents see its disastrous renovation as an ironic representation of his whole administration. “You can’t make this up,” wrote one Democratic senator. Users on X have had a field day with the memes. For his part, Trump blamed “terrible Vandals” and “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE” for the damage. “We will fix it?” he posted on Truth Social — question mark included. That's one way to reassure the public.  

Related: Trump Might Not Be Able To Build His 250-Foot Arch (ABC News)

Quick Hits

🎾 Serena Williams will return to play singles at Wimbledon — and it means she could potentially break this world record.

👑 Prince William got a joint birthday-Father's Day tribute, but it was Princess Charlotte who stole the show. Like father, like daughter. 

😋 Trying to add more fiber to your diet? Put these foods on your grocery list. 

🚿 Sorry to say it, but you’re probably washing your hair wrong. Hint: It’s all about the scalp.

🎬 Anya Taylor-Joy is taking over another iconic film franchise with a starring role in this upcoming movie.

📣 Here’s one easy, free, and therapist-approved way to boost your self-esteem. All you need is your Notes app. 

On Our Calendar

Monday, June 22

🛍️ Reformation x Umbro collab drops 

The six-style, soccer-forward collection — shorts, tees, and athletic dresses included — is as casual as it is refined.

🤑 Walmart Deals start

The sale includes thousands of deals across electronics, fashion, toys, furniture, and skincare, and early back-to-school basics. 

😋 National Onion Rings Day 

Good news: You can make them from scratch, in your air fryer — 25 minutes tops.

⚽  Win free tickets to the Queens Classic

Gotham FC and the Washington Spirit take to Citi Field on July 15 for the stadium’s first-ever pro women's match. Score two tickets plus signed merch from USWNT's Rose Lavelle and Jaedyn Shaw. (Terms apply.)

Psst…this is just the preview: Subscribe to theSkimm app and never miss a moment.

Together with Verizon

Perk Up

Summer is sticky enough. So instead of sweating your phone bill, how about sweating at an all-expenses-paid trip to Outside Lands? Verizon Shine — a loyalty program for all Verizon customers on any plan — gives you a weekly shot at once-in-a-lifetime experiences: music festivals, sports tournaments, and celeb meet-and-greets. Your loyalty? It’s paying off.

Skimm'd by: Anna Davies, Marisa Iallonardo, Molly Longman, Aryanna Prasad Bhullar, Erika W. Smith, Mallory Simon, and Kylie McConville. Fact-checked by Sara Tardiff.