Live Past 100
Reported August 28, 2009
DALLAS (Ivanhoe Newswire) — The fountain of youth may be more attainable than you think. The average American lives 77.8 years, but the number of those living past 100 is growing. what is the secret to being a centenarian?
Harold Rottenberg has made a long living out of painting. Rottenberg is 103 years old!
“Life is very exciting to me,” Rottenberg told Ivanhoe. “Every day is a new adventure.”
His art keeps his mind sharp. Exercise keeps his body fit.
“I come to the gym three times a week,” Rottenberg said.
Francis Shevenaugh has Rottenberg beat! She hasn’t stopped moving in 107 years.
“I like to keep busy,” Shevenaugh explained to Ivanhoe. “I want to be doing something.”
Just last year, she did what most half her age wouldn’t do. She went zip lining!
Today, there are about 130,000 centenarians. By 2050, that number will rise to 834,000. What’s the secret to living long? New research reveals there is such a thing as a longevity gene. Having two copies of the FOXO3A gene triples the chance that you’ll live to 100.
Still, doctors say lifestyle is also key. Experts advise to keep working. Retirement increases the risk of obesity and chronic diseases for many. Also, don’t stop moving.
“Walking back and forth a store, up a flight of stairs,” Kenneth Cooper, M.D., M.P.H., founder and chairman of the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas, told Ivanhoe.
Sleep at least six hours every night. Your body needs the time to heal. Color your plate. Choose bright fruits and vegetables and dark whole grains. Also, include proper supplementation into your diet.
“I still strongly recommend vitamin C,” Dr. Cooper said. “I recommend folic acid, B6 and B12.”
Rottenberg has his own advice.
“The most important thing in life is sincerity — meaning what you say and do. Remember that,” he said.
Remember that and you could unlock the fountain of youth.
Experts say longevity is three-quarters about lifestyle and one quarter about genes. Whether you are 20 years old or 50, it’s never too late to benefit from a healthier lifestyle.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Cooper Aerobics Center
Dallas, TX
(866) 906-COOP (2667)
