Utah: A new study suggests that regular aerobic exercise can prevent DNA damage in old age.
Research conducted at the University of Utah’s Department of Internal Medicine studied the effects of exercise on DNA damage and telomere dysfunction. Both of these important factors are associated with aging and age-related diseases.
Telomeres (protective caps on the ends of chromosomes) play an important role in maintaining genetic stability. However, over time these naturally shrink causing the cells to age and become less functional.
The study was conducted on a group of elderly people who exercised regularly. The study found that these individuals had less damaged DNA and less dysfunctional telomeres than non-exercisers.
Research suggests that exercise can help slow the effects of aging at the molecular level, potentially delaying the onset of age-related conditions.
