In a recent critical narrative review published in Minerva Medica, researchers examined whether human longevity can be intentionally influenced through behavioral changes and standardized lifestyle practices. Drawing on evidence from demography, epidemiology, gerontology, and genetics, the review assessed the factors associated with reaching 100 years or more and questioned the growing commercial and media narrative that specific diets, exercise routines, or lifestyle “recipes” can reliably extend human lifespan.

The review found that balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, strong social connections, and psychological well-being are consistently associated with healthier aging, improved healthspan, and reduced premature mortality. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to show that any specific behavioral intervention can determine whether an individual will reach age 100 or beyond. Centenarians also demonstrate considerable diversity in their diets, physical activity, social environments, and life histories, suggesting that extreme longevity cannot be explained by a single lifestyle formula.

Evidence from Blue Zone populations, including Sardinia, Okinawa, Ikaria, and Nicoya, further indicates that longevity-associated behaviors are generally integrated into everyday life rather than based on intensive or highly structured routines. Lifelong movement, moderate activity, balanced eating, family and community connections, and psychological resilience may support healthier aging, but their contribution to exceptional longevity varies across populations.

The review also highlights the role of genetics and biological resilience. Although lifestyle factors can significantly influence health and premature mortality, centenarians may possess protective or compensatory mechanisms that help them tolerate age-related diseases. Genetic, epigenetic, environmental, social, and psychological factors appear to interact throughout the life course, making exceptional longevity a complex and probabilistic outcome.

Overall, the authors challenge the idea that reaching extreme old age can be achieved through a universal behavioral prescription. While healthy lifestyle practices remain essential for promoting healthspan and reducing disease risk, current evidence does not support presenting them as guaranteed pathways to exceptional longevity. The findings instead emphasize that extreme longevity results from the combined influence of biological resilience, lifelong environment, behavior, genetics, social factors, and chance.

Sourece: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20260825/Why-living-to-100-may-depend-on-far-more-than-diet-and-exercise.aspx