A recent study published in Science Express, consisting of more than 800 people over the age of one hundred revealed that approximately three quarters of the participants had a “genetic signature” for longevity.  Over the course of the extensive study, researchers were able to identify 150 minor genetic changes that made up the predisposition or what they called the “genetic signature” for extreme longevity.

The researchers who conducted the study are planning to release information that would make it possible for individuals with the necessary information to test to see if they had the longevity gene and while it could certainly be interesting and exciting to be in possession of this information, it’s important to understand that there are several other factors that will contribute to exactly how long you live.  Things like your environment, your diet, your level of activity and a number of other factors will ultimately factor in to how long you live.

If you want to live as long and healthy a life as possible, whether you are in passion of the extreme longevity gene or not, you need to participate in regular bouts of physical activity like The Wilsonville’s exercise for physical renewal program or even regular daily walks around the safe and beautifully landscaped Wilsonville grounds.  You also need to focus on a healthy diet and taking the appropriate supplements and medications as prescribed by your doctor.  Knowing that your body may be built for long life could be a great thing to hear, but actually fulfilling that prophecy entails a lot more than simply having the right genes.

photo credit: ynse