Basic Pursuits

Prof. Adolfo Diez Perez and his team from the Universitat Autonomaa de Barcelona analysed the genetics of a very long lived family from a small town on the island of Menorca. The oldest was 113. Four other members of the family were two daughters, 81 and 77, and an 85-year old nephew.

The researchers found no genetic abnormalties that could explain the health of these senior citizens. Rather Prof. Perez theorized that, "...that the excellent health of this family, and of the 113-year-old man in particular, is probably due to a Mediterranean diet, the temperate climate of the island, a lack of stress and regular physical activity."

The article underlines the fact that until the age of 102, the man cycled every day and looked after the family orchard.

This is good news. Most of us cannot control where we live. But we have some control over our stress and we certainly have lots of control over our diet and physical activity.

The Secret To Long Life May Not Be In The Genes