How to Become Biologically Younger

April 30, 2008

Posted by Maggie Spilner

We know that regular exercisers have lower rates of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity and osteoporosis—all good things. But recent research is indicating that an active lifestyle may actually lead to changes in your DNA that may make you biologically younger than those your chronological age. How cool is that?

Researchers in London studied 2,301 Caucasian twins, using both questionnaires and blood samples. Examining the length of telomeres (sequences at the end of DNA chromosomes which we know shorten progressively over time) they found that those who were more active during their leisure time had longer telomeres that those were less active.

The most active people, who were getting about 3 hours and 20 minutes of exercise per week, aside from activity at work, had the same length telomeres as people ten years younger, on average. Researchers speculate that physical activity may reduce the physical effects of psychological stress as well as reduce the effects of inflammation.

The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: While future research may find other factors that effect telomere length related to people who are active versus people who are sedentary, researchers feel regular exercise is a proven benefit to your health and that it may even keep you biologically younger at a basic, biological level.

QUICK TIP: For the first time, the American Heart Association and the College of Sports Medicine have issued specific exercise recommendations for seniors. Learn More

Written exclusively for Stop Aging Now, the authority on anti-aging research, anti-aging nutrition, and anti-aging supplements.