3 Anti-Aging Experts Reveal Secrets to Living Past 100

The quest for ways to extend human lifespan is a hot topic for longevity researchers.

Even though the exact science might still be some years away, many experts are using current research to strive for living beyond 100 years.

Some rely on dietary supplements derived from ancient trees, while others recommend ingredients found in energy drinks, praised for their potential anti-ageing effects.

Let’s delve into the habits that longevity experts follow in a bid to live a longer, healthier life…

The Role of Exercise in Longevity

Living until 120 is largely a combination of genetics, luck, diet, and exercise.

According to Dr David Clancy, a researcher at Lancaster University who has spent many years examining how to delay age-related decline, exercise is central to longevity. Numerous studies have associated regular workouts with a lower risk of premature mortality, crediting the benefits to improved heart health, as well as reduced cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

However, a recent study from Finland questioned the direct impact of exercise on lifespan extension. After examining the exercise habits and biological age of thousands of participants, the researchers concluded that those who exercise more might live longer mainly because they adhere to a healthy diet and enjoy ample sleep, rather than the workouts themselves.

The Importance of ‘Zombie Cells’ and Supplements

Dr Clancy explains that fitness can help eliminate senescent cells, or ‘zombie cells’. These cells cease to divide but refuse to die, a process attributed to aging and stress. Instead of dying, they accumulate in the body, accelerating aging, and releasing toxins that promote inflammation and potentially stimulate tumor growth.

To combat this, Dr Clancy uses Ginkgo biloba capsules, hoping to give his cells a boost. The once-a-day supplement is made using the dried leaves of Ginkgo, the world’s oldest living tree. Its extract is believed to be rich in antioxidants and beneficial for heart health, brain function, and even eye health.

The Potential Anti-Ageing Benefits of Taurine

Meanwhile, David McCarthy, an associate professor at the University of Georgia and former researcher at Oxford University‘s Institute of Ageing, advocates taking taurine supplements. This chemical, found naturally in the body, meat, fish, and often added to energy drinks, has been praised for its potential anti-ageing effects. Taurine is thought to support the heart, brain, metabolism, and is crucial for maintaining levels of calcium and electrolytes.

A U.S. study published in June found that rats who had taurine in their diets lived around 10% longer under laboratory conditions than those not given it. As a result, McCarthy takes a daily taurine supplement.

Strategies to Boost Current Health

In addition to taking taurine supplements, McCarthy also follows a healthy lifestyle. He exercises regularly, gets ample sleep, and moderates his alcohol intake. He gave up smoking due to long-term health concerns, even though he enjoyed it.

Biogerontologist Professor Joao Pedro de Magalhaes, from the University of Birmingham, has spent many years examining the genetic, cellular, and molecular mechanisms of aging. Despite his extensive research, he avoids anti-ageing supplements, believing that there’s no ‘magic pill’ for turning back the clock. Instead, he has adopted habits that may extend his life, such as eliminating meat and alcohol from his diet.