Did you know that the chromosomes of people who exercise more and eat better do not degrade as quickly as people who do not exercise and eat well?
This suggests a healthy lifestyle may not only lengthen life by helping to prevent disease, but also by slowing the process of aging itself at the DNA level.
What are telomeres?
The effects of aging have been linked to a shortening of chromosome components known as telomeres, which protect the ends of chromosomes and keep the DNA in the middle from being damaged.
Over time, telomeres shorten and both cells and DNA become more vulnerable to various forms of damage.
This may be one of the primary mechanisms connected to age-related decline.
Shorter telomeres have been correlated with an increased risk of both cancer and cardiovascular disease.
It has been found that the telomeres of smokers, the obese and those with sedentary lifestyles tend to be shorter than average.
LIFESTYLE and TELOMERES
This spurred a study to see if an improvement in lifestyle could be directly connected to telomere protection.
Lifestyle changes included a moderate aerobic exercise routine, classes in stress management and relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, a diet high in fruits and vegetables, and supplements of vitamins and fish oil.
After lifestyle changes, telomerase activity increased by an average of 29 percent.
The level of telomerase increase was also correlated with a decrease in levels of LDL cholesterol and the frequency of intrusive thoughts (markers of stress).
While you might never have heard of telomeres before, rest assured that if you’re paying attention to living a healthy lifestyle that includes the elements I mentioned in the previous paragraph, you’re keeping those telomeres HAPPY and functioning properly, which will keep you happy and functioning properly!
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