Regular exercise and a healthy diet may help to increase levels of telomerase, an enzyme that protects against cellular aging.
Professor Dean Ornish and colleagues at the Preventive Medicine Research Institute in California conducted the study to assess whether three months of intensive lifestyle changes would increase telomerase activity in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). The 24 participants ate a diet high in fruit and vegetables, took supplements of vitamins and fish oils, followed an exercise program and attended classes in stress management, relaxation techniques, and breathing exercises.
Results showed that the lifestyle changes led to an average 29% increase in telomerase levels. Increases in telomerase activity were also linked to significant decreases in “bad” LDL cholesterol and psychological distress.
Ornish D, Lin J, Daubenmier J, Weidner G, Epel E, Kemp C, Magbanua MJM, Marlin R, Yglecias L, Carroll PR, Blackburn EH. Increased telomerase activity and comprehensive lifestyle changes: a pilot study. The Lancet Oncology. Early Online Publication, 16 September 2008. DOI:10.1016/S1470-2045(08)70234-1
