Scientists continue to search for simple and effective ways to increase life expectancy. New research has revealed that physical activity can indeed prolong life. And it's effective even in old age.
Harvard researchers conducted an intriguing study on laboratory mice. They wanted to determine whether there was a difference in the effects of exercise on young and older animals. It turned out there was. For the older rodents, exercise was significantly more effective.
The mice were divided into two groups. The first, young mice, ran 10 kilometers daily in a special wheel. The second group consisted of mice aged 20 months (approximately 70 human years). They ran 5 kilometers. It was the latter group that demonstrated rapid cardiac muscle recovery.
Researchers attribute this to the rejuvenation of muscle stem cells. They also emphasize that regular exercise and a balanced diet are especially important in old age . These habits can extend life by approximately 10 years.