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Jakarta – Swedish researchers studied blood samples from 44,000 over-60s, with hundreds having longevity up to 100 years old. The research results were shown to have lower blood sugar levels than their shorter-lived peers from their 60s onwards.
It also showed they had healthier kidney and liver function, as measured by levels of two separate markers in their blood. However, those who lived the longest also had higher total cholesterol levels.
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The team suggested that lifestyle factors, such as diet and alcohol intake were behind some of the difference.
They compared 12 biomarkers among participants who lived to 100 against those who didn't. All have been linked to mortality in previous studies.
These included total cholesterol and blood sugar, markers of metabolism; uric acid, a marker of inflammation; creatinine, a measure of kidney function; iron, which is linked to anaemia; and albumin, a protein that can signal liver or kidney disease.
Writing in the journal GeroScience, researchers claimed it was the largest study of its kind to date comparing the levels of different molecules in the blood.
Results showed that higher levels of iron and total cholesterol level were associated with a higher chance of becoming centenarian (100 years old).
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However, this discovery does not take into consideration lifestyle and genetic factors that can also influence longevity. The results of this study suggest that in addition to luck, genetics, and lifestyle also play a role in determining longevity.
Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can also play an important role in reaching 100 years of age. In addition, it is important to constantly check the health of vital organs such as the kidneys and liver as well as blood sugar levels throughout life.
Thus, this study highlights the importance of maintaining blood levels and the health of vital organs to increase the chances of living longer. The study also shows that lifestyle and genetic factors can play a role in determining longevity.
