Can Tortoises Teach Us the Secret to a Long Life?
If we want to live longer, healthier lives, perhaps all we need to do is find ways to slow down the aging process. Scientists studying the genetics of long-lived creatures may be onto something—and it just might involve taking notes from tortoises. Centenarian tortoises may set the standard for anti-aging, according to recent research on the Galapagos Islands.
Learn how tortoises age
As animals that have been around for over 200 million years, tortoises offer us an interesting perspective on aging. Researchers have tracked their patterns of aging and longevity, and they may have uncovered some surprising insights into long-term health.
What we can learn from tortoise longevity
To unravel why some animals live long and others don’t, scientists have turned to studying how they age. A team of researchers has found that tortoises are living longer than they used to, due in part to protective enzymes in their cells. What does that mean for humans? Time will tell—but it could be that if we learn how tortoises slow down aging in their cells, we can do it too.
5 ways you can live longer like a tortoise
Do you want to live longer like a tortoise? There are some serious benefits to aging slowly. For example, not only do tortoises survive well into their second century, but they’re also highly resistant to cancer and are rarely attacked by predators, according to BBC. Given that only one out of every 10,000 wild tortoises make it past age 100, what can these animals teach us about longevity and living a long life?
Keep Moving
Studies show that animals who stay active and moving tend to live longer than others of their species. If tortoises can do it, maybe we can, too.
Adopt the Mediterranean Diet
Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein—and less sugar and unhealthy fat. The Mediterranean diet has been linked with lower risks of Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease and certain cancers (National Institutes of Health). A recent review found that people who stick with it also appear to have sharper memories in their golden years.
Stay Happy and Engaged in Life
Research has shown that staying happy and engaged in life can extend your lifespan. Have fun, laugh and keep your mind active by learning new things every day. Find what really makes you happy—no matter how simple it may seem—and do as much of it as possible. If you need help getting started, don’t be afraid to try something new. Take up an instrument or learn a language; start taking photography classes or go backpacking with friends.
Resist Social Isolation
Research has shown that social isolation and loneliness can have an adverse effect on longevity. If you want to avoid these detrimental effects, you may want to make an effort to surround yourself with people more often. Many centenarians place a great deal of importance on their social relationships, often surrounding themselves with friends and family members they’ve known for decades.
Seek Support From Friends and Family
Older people are often surrounded by friends and family that want to see them live as long as possible. If you’re over 100 years old, odds are good that you have people around you who care about your wellbeing, but what can they do to help besides offering encouragement? Make sure your friends and family know how they can best support you in your anti-aging efforts. If they understand what it is you need from them, chances are higher that they’ll be able to provide it.
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