How Long Can We Really Live? 10 Interesting Science Behind Human Lifespan

In the modern era, the emphasis extends beyond mere longevity to the quality of life in our later years. South Korea is currently experiencing a swift transition toward becoming an ultra-aged society. This prompts questions about human life expectancy, the potential for extended, healthy living, and the global implications of genetic manipulation to regulate lifespan.

Natural Human Lifespan

Have you ever thought about the maximum natural lifespan of a human? The oldest person in the world is a 116-year-old woman named Maria Branyas Morera in Spain. The theoretical explanation is that a person can live up to 100 years without an accident or suffering from illness. However, with the advancement of medical technology and improvements in living conditions, the limit of natural lifespan has significantly increased.

World Population Over 100 Years Old Approaching 600,000

According to the United Nations, the global population over 100 years old has significantly increased since a decade ago. South Korea’s Ministry of Health and Welfare also announced that as of August 2022, the population will be over 100 and approximately 8,500. Demographers advise that we must thoroughly prepare for an aging society as the number of people over 100 will double in the next decade.

What is the Limit of Natural Lifespan?

What is the limit of the human natural lifespan? Previously, experts concluded that the natural limitation of human life is about 115 years. However, recent research results show that the mortality rate decreases after age 85 and reaches its peak around the age of 107. According to this theory, experts say the average natural lifespan is around 110-112 years.

The Importance of Living Healthily for a Long Time

Nowadays, people consider healthy longevity, living a long life without illness, much more important than simply living a long life. In fact, with the advancement of medical technology and the increasing number of older people who value their health and enjoy a well-being life, demographers are analyzing the need to focus on a significant level of healthy longevity.

What if We Start Using New Organs Like Cyborgs?

One of the most researched areas by scientists is bio-artificial organs based on cells. This involves creating artificial organs similar to the worn-out tissues and organs in our bodies and transplanting them. Many research teams worldwide strive to develop organs such as skin, cornea, heart, and lungs. If these technologies develop, wouldn’t artificial organs also influence longevity?

Does the Gluteus Muscle Determine Lifespan?

Did you know that the gluteus muscle determines lifespan? The gluteus is one of the crucial parts that control overall health. It connects the upper and lower body and simultaneously holds the pelvis, thigh, and waist, helping the spine stand straight. If the gluteus muscle weakens, the posture becomes crooked, and the body’s balance collapses, making it easy to fall. To strengthen the gluteus muscle, it helps to practice climbing stairs or walking with force in the buttocks. It is not good to have a habit of sitting for a long time. Strengthening the buttocks and tapping them to loosen the tense muscles while working is good.

Living Healthily Like a Centenarian

Older people in South Korea live long, but many are also sick. To live healthily for a long time, quitting smoking, moderate drinking, adequate exercise, healthy eating habits, and regular health checkups are essential to minimize disability even if you get sick. Looking at the common characteristics of centenarians who have already achieved healthy longevity can give us the answer. They are relatively independent and active, maintain regular sleep, moderate social interaction, and restrained lifestyle habits.

Health Differences After Middle Age Depend on Muscles

As you age, muscle mass decreases due to aging. If you lack muscles, the risk of diseases such as cerebrovascular health, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia increases, lowering the quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to maintain muscles for a healthy old age, and it is necessary to consume enough protein, a muscle component. Protein helps boost immunity, suppresses the growth of cancer cells, and helps our bodies increase their defense against bacteria and viruses.

Do Regular Exercise to the Point of Breathlessness

If you do about 15 minutes of breathless exercise every day, it can help extend your lifespan. Regular exercise promotes metabolism and prevents the heart muscles from stiffening. After turning 50, muscle mass drops sharply, and basal metabolism decreases, making gaining weight easy. Muscle loss has already begun if your stomach starts to bulge and your arms and legs start to thin. Exercise can delay these things a little.

Don’t Hesitate to Learn

Learning something new is beneficial for mental and physical health. Learning knowledge and skills significantly improves memory, and arts and music, which are physical activities, help brain health as different areas of the brain interact. Also, learning new things increases the ability to cope with stressful situations and increases the likelihood of having healthy lifestyle habits.

By. Shing Young Jeon