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| Unlocking the Secrets of Longevity: Genetics and Lifestyle Factors |
While we often turn to trending articles that prescribe specific diets or exercise regimens in our quest for a longer, healthier life, a profound factor influencing longevity remains beyond our control: genetics. Recent research underscores the crucial role that genetic inheritance plays in living beyond the age of 90.
According to the Wall Street Journal, the belief that meticulous adherence to a healthy lifestyle can guarantee a lifespan of 150 years is far from accurate. Instead, genetics increasingly emerges as a significant determinant of longevity as individuals age. Robert Young of the Gerontology Research Group notes, "Some people have this idea: 'If I do everything right, diet and exercise, I can live to be 150.' And that's really not correct." Genetics become increasingly influential as we age, accounting for 25% of the ability to reach age 90, 50% for age 100, and a staggering 75% for those fortunate enough to reach age 106, as stated by Boston University medical expert Thomas Perls.
Nonetheless, this doesn't diminish the impact of lifestyle choices and advances in modern medicine on longevity. The U.S. Census Bureau reports a notable increase in the number of centenarians, with approximately 109,000 living in America today, marking a 60% increase from a decade ago when the count stood at 65,000. The plethora of articles offering guidance on food, exercise, and diet unquestionably plays a role in informing people on how to extend and enhance their lives. Additionally, mental health is a pivotal factor, with one's outlook on life and strong connections with family and friends significantly contributing to health span. Neuropsychologist Amanda Cook Maher highlights the importance of maintaining good relationships as a potential key to longevity.
Furthermore, individuals who manage to avoid age-related diseases, such as cancer or dementia, are more likely to enjoy longer lives. While identifying the exact genes responsible for longevity can be complex, those associated with DNA repair and resistance to conditions like Alzheimer's disease are among the frontrunners.
A closer examination of longevity through blood tests reveals intriguing insights. Centenarians tend to display average to lower levels of blood biomarkers, such as creatinine (a key factor in kidney health), glucose, and uric acid. Lower levels of uric acid, in particular, suggest fewer problems with conditions like gout or kidney stones. Dr. Shunsuke Murata, a researcher, notes that although it's challenging to determine whether these findings directly correlate with lifestyle choices, these markers are known to be influenced by diet and lifestyle, making such an influence highly plausible.
In the world of longevity, genetics is just one piece of the puzzle. The interplay between genetic factors and lifestyle choices continues to be an intriguing area of research, leading us to ponder questions like, "Do women genuinely outlive men? It may not be that simple."
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