Scientists changed their minds about human longevity
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Recently in Sweden the next research of scientists has come to the end, the results of which have refuted the previous opinion that can lead a person to active longevity. Is a person able to live long, making his own efforts for this?
It has always been assumed that human life can be prolonged if one follows certain criteria: for example, if you follow the principles of healthy eating, engage in physical culture, abandon bad habits. However, according to the results of the new experiment, scientists have proved that such criteria can only improve health and optimize the quality of life, but these processes do not influence aging processes and the possibility of longevity - this is the result of random facts and coincidences.
Scientists have observed and investigated twins living in Sweden. They were required to find out whether genes and external factors play an important role in the question of life expectancy.
Specialists managed to find a group that includes 385 participants in the middle age category of 69 years. For two decades, the participants were selected materials - blood for genetic tests. As a result, scientists were able to fully follow how age changes affect the state of DNA.
Taking into account the results of the conducted studies, the specialists concluded: one of the main predetermining factors, indicating the aging of the organism, is the process of DNA methylation. Such a process is a modification of DNA molecules. It is he who is related to negative age manifestations - to suppression of cellular activity, to the development of atherosclerosis. After carefully studying the mass of varieties of this process, the specialists discovered that they are in no way connected with heredity. In relatives and twins, as it was explained, the process of DNA methylation with age passed with a growing difference.
This allowed specialists to come to the conclusion that the duration of the existence of the human body is dependent not only on the hereditary factor, but also on the impact of surrounding circumstances. The final result of such an impact can not be predicted in advance. Nevertheless, this does not mean that we can neglect such attitudes as a healthy lifestyle and proper nutrition, yet it will significantly improve the quality of life and avoid many diseases. After all, life should be not only long, but also as active as possible. Many factors prevent a person from living qualitatively: lack of exercise, improper diet, poor posture, a lot of bad habits lead not only to illnesses, but also to sleep disorders, to feeling unwell and depressed mood.
If a person responsibly approaches his own health, then even when he can not extend his life, it is in his power to make this life more active, joyful and harmonious.
Details about the study can be found on the bioRxiv portal.
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