I really enjoyed this week's assignment to complete the only quiz to determine our approximate life expectancy. To be honest, I received a higher number than I was anticipating but I guess that could be considered a good thing. I did find it interesting some of the questions that were asked however. Some of the ones that really stood out to me were about flossing your teeth, wearing a seat-belt and the amount of caffeine consumed daily. It seems odd that such trivial things can make a difference on our aging. I especially found it interesting to see the recommended steps to take to add years on to your life. For example, it seems unreal that simply exercising one more day per week can supposedly add up to 1.5 years to my life.
While this survey was interesting and fun to take, I don't believe the results are 100% true by any stretch of the imagination. There are a lot of variables that go into a person's aging. The fact that I am only 20 years old also adds to the fact that it is hard to determine my set lifestyle habits and potential longevity at this point in time.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
The Role of Genetics in Aging
The article I found is actually referring to a radio program but I thought it was pretty interesting none-the-less. (http://www.dnafiles.org/programs/genetics-aging-longevity)
What originally caught my attention in this article was the statement that the only "proven" way to ward off age-related diseases is calorie restriction. This point was also made by our guest speaker, Dr. Bronikowski. However the author admits that this approach to avoiding aging simply isn't feasible for humans, which I completely agree with. That being said, I did find it interesting to learn that there is a "longevity" gene that has been found in various test subjects. This gene is believed to be located within the human DNA as well and if located, could be used to "cure" or slow the affects of aging.
I think it is fascinating to know that specific genes could be the key to understanding aging in humans. I don't know that genetic therapy is the answer however, and it scares me a bit to think that one day humans could be immortal to a certain extent. I personally prefer to believe other environmental effects and actions could help to slow the effects of human aging.
What originally caught my attention in this article was the statement that the only "proven" way to ward off age-related diseases is calorie restriction. This point was also made by our guest speaker, Dr. Bronikowski. However the author admits that this approach to avoiding aging simply isn't feasible for humans, which I completely agree with. That being said, I did find it interesting to learn that there is a "longevity" gene that has been found in various test subjects. This gene is believed to be located within the human DNA as well and if located, could be used to "cure" or slow the affects of aging.
I think it is fascinating to know that specific genes could be the key to understanding aging in humans. I don't know that genetic therapy is the answer however, and it scares me a bit to think that one day humans could be immortal to a certain extent. I personally prefer to believe other environmental effects and actions could help to slow the effects of human aging.
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