BE STRONGER, LIVE LONGER

The secret to staying fit is proteins called telomeres that protect your chromosomes from damage. Keep them durable and resilient, and they’ll ensure you stay hardy and healthy in return.

TEXT MIREL KETCHIFF

You can control how young you look and feel simply by tapping into little-known power sources in your cells, new research reveals. Telomeres, tiny protein sheaths on the ends of your chromosomes, help keep your DNA in prime condition. Studies have linked longer telomeres with better brainpower, a reduced risk of diseases and a longer life. But factors like chronic stress, a lack of exercise and sleep, and a poor diet can cause your telomeres to deteriorate. “If they wear down too much, the genetic material in your chromosomes is no longer protected,” says Elizabeth Blackburn, coauthor of The Telomere Effect. This inhibits your cells’ ability to function properly, which speeds up the ageing process, she adds. Happily, you can easily and quickly strengthen your telomeres. “Studies show that within just weeks…

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Shape Singapore (Digital) - 1 Issue, May 2017

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