Physiological requirements for longevity

Abstract

Genetic background is an important factor for longevity. Life-style and environmental factors, such as nutrition, physical activity, smoking and alcohol, are also important. For example, obesity is negatively associated with health and longevity. It is known that dietary restriction is the most consistent method of extending life span in rats. In human, however, under nutrition as well as over nutrition is a risk factor for a short life. Losing weight is often dangerous in the elderly, in whom reserved physiological functions are limited. Smoking, diabetes mellitus and hypertension accelerate human aging, while physical activity and a moderate amount of alcohol is good to live long. Preventive medicine and health support are also important to promote longevity. Good results of new strategies such as custom-made health support and preventive treatment are anticipated in the near future. Accumulation of basic data in human aging and health are essential to the practice of preventive medicine and health support. A new comprehensive longitudinal study was started at the National Institute of Longevity Sciences (NILS) in 1997 (NILS-Longitudinal Study of Aging, NILS-LSA). The results of this study should be helpful for the practice of preventive medicine and health support.