Telomeres, lifestyle, cancer, and aging

Researchers reviewed earlier studies about telomeres, protective DNA caps at the ends of chromosomes. They found that smoking, obesity, long-term stress, and inactivity were often linked with shorter telomeres, while exercise and healthier diets were sometimes linked with longer ones. Telomeres naturally shorten as cells divide, but very short telomeres can damage cells. Cancer cells may avoid this limit by using telomerase, an enzyme that rebuilds telomeres.

What this means for you: This review does not prove that a specific food, supplement, or lifestyle program will lengthen telomeres or prevent cancer. You can ignore telomere products and focus on well-established habits such as not smoking, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight.