“Good Genes.”  The Key to Longevity?

If your parents lived to their 90s, does that mean that you will also enjoy a long life?  An interesting study investigated this question, and the answer is, “It depends.”

Researchers at UC San Diego’s Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity conducted an 8-year study of more than 5,000 women ages 63 and older.  They looked at  whether or not the association between physical activity and sedentary time with death varied based on different levels of genetic predisposition for longevity.

According to lead study author Alexander Posis, “Our study showed that, even if you aren’t likely to live long based on your genes, you can still extend your lifespan by engaging in positive lifestyle behaviors such a regular exercise and sitting less.  Conversely, even if your genes predispose you to a long life, remaining physically active is still important to achieve longevity.”

Looks like we all need to keep moving, even if your parent both lived in to their 90s!

 

Research findings are available in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity (2022; doi:10.1123/japa.2022-0067).

IDEA Fitness Journal

Autumn 2022

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